Kovilmala, locally known as Kozhimala (the hill of hen), is a tribal settlement and a small village near Kattappana in the district of Idukki in Kerala state, India.

[3] Kovilmala is the headquarters of Mannan community who preserves certain customs, traditions and form of governance, making them a unique tribal unit.

[6] Today, these Kudis are located in places like Kumily, Adimaly, Vathikudy, Maniyarankudy, Machiplavu, Korangatti, Kattappana, Murickassery, Thopramkudy, Nedumkandam, Mankulam, Irumpupalam etc.

[7][8] The king has a council of 9 ministers named Kanis (community leaders) who assist him to settle the disputes regarding marriage, divorce, internal and external affairs.

[12] It is believed that the Mannan community were the warrior tribe of Pandyan lines, fled to the forest interiors of Idukki at time of the prolonged war between Cheras and Cholas in ancient Tamilakam.