Mudapuram draws crowds this Onam
A tree house rising from a paddy field has made the quiet village of Mudapuram a surprising Onam destination this year. The structure, called Mudapurathe Onakkudil, sits in the middle of an eight-acre farm about 30 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram city. Marigolds in yellow and orange line the canal on both sides, creating a vivid scene for visitors arriving in increasing numbers.
The tree house’s origins
The idea for the tree house started last year when local youngsters built a temporary bamboo hut in the field as a photo spot for Onam. That same night, someone destroyed it. Ajeesh Ramdas, president of the Mudapuram Residents’ Association (MUDRA), said the incident followed other disruptions by troublemakers. “We decided to revive the inactive residents’ group and build something lasting,” he explained.
Ajeesh, who owns a construction company called Iron Mode, funded the new structure—a metal-framed tree house with a tiled roof. It opened on Atham, the first day of the 10-day Onam festival. This year, the association planted marigold saplings along a half-kilometer stretch of the canal to attract more visitors. Sumesh MS, joint secretary of MUDRA, said the spot had already gained attention on social media, and the flowers were meant to boost its appeal.
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Growing the marigolds wasn’t easy. Subin S, MUDRA’s secretary, said the group obtained about 3,000 saplings through Kudumbashree, a state program to reduce poverty. Planting began in June with help from women employed under the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission. A pest attack later killed many plants, an issue the association is still addressing.
From fallow land to community effort
The paddy field has its own history. Once unused, it was brought back to life by a collective of farmers called the Thengumvila Padasekhara Samithi, which now has over 30 members. They leased the land and started cultivation. The harvest went so well that the owners took over farming the next year. This season’s crop grew from stray grains left after last year’s harvest.
The Thengumvila Bhagavathy Temple nearby also grows a small paddy plot. Local tradition requires the temple to receive the first harvest, and during Onam, it hosts the area’s first swing ceremony. The temple’s role is part of a wider network supporting Mudapuram’s changes. MUDRA’s leaders say they’ve received help from local organizations like the SNDP Yogam, the Government UP School, and even residents living abroad.
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The Kizhuvalam panchayat and the local agriculture office have also contributed. Eight park benches along the road came from individual donors, and when MUDRA suggested installing CCTV cameras, the funds were raised quickly. “People have been very supportive,” Ajeesh said. “We want to build on this energy.”
Visitors this Onam will find more than just a photo spot. Residents are already planning next steps, including expanding flower cultivation. The tree house stands as the main draw for now. On a recent rainy morning, it sat quietly against the swaying paddy, its metal frame contrasting with the natural surroundings. The marigolds, still recovering from pests, added color to the setting. Though small, the project has already changed how people view this part of Thiruvananthapuram.
To reach Mudapuram, visitors can search for Mudapuram Onakkudil on Google Maps.
