Chengannur Municipality is located in the eastern part of Alappuzha district, Kerala, on the banks of the Pamba River. It covers about 13–15 km², sits at an elevation of 7 m, and is known as the “Gateway to Sabarimala” due to its role as a major transit point for pilgrims.

📍 Location & Boundaries

• District: Alappuzha, Kerala
• Coordinates: 9°19′N, 76°36′E
• Nearby towns: Thiruvalla (9 km north), Pathanamthitta (24 km east), Kottayam (36 km), Alappuzha (43 km)
• River: Situated on the banks of the Pamba River, which plays a vital role in the town’s geography and culture.

🌍 Area & Terrain

• Total area: Between 12.95 km² and 14.6 km² (sources vary slightly)
• Elevation: 7 m (23 ft) above sea level
• Soil: Historically known for red soil hills (chem-kunnu-ur = “land of red hills”), distinct from the alluvial soil of nearby Kuttanad. Many of these red hills have disappeared due to soil mining.

🏘️ Demographics

• Population (2011): ~23,456–23,466 residents
• Density: 1,600–1,800 people per km²
• Literacy rate: Exceptionally high at 97.8%, above Kerala’s average of 94%.

🚉 Connectivity & Transport Geography

• Roads: Located on MC Road (State Highway 1), connecting Thiruvananthapuram to Angamaly.
• National Highway: Linked by NH 220 to Kollam and Kottayam.
• Railway: Chengannur Railway Station is a major hub for pilgrims heading to Sabarimala.
• Air: Nearest airports are Trivandrum International Airport (115 km south) and Cochin International Airport (127 km north).

🏞️ Cultural & Environmental Geography

• Religious landmarks: Chengannur Mahadeva Temple (called Dakshina Kailasam), Old Syrian Church.
• Pilgrimage role: Known as the Gateway to Sabarimala, serving as a transit point for millions of devotees annually.
• Taluk villages: Includes Kurattissery, Mannar, Ennakkad, Pandanad, Thiruvanvandoor, Mulakuzha, Ala, Puliyoor, Cheriyanad, Budhanoor, and Venmony.

📊 Quick Geography Snapshot