Buying land in Kerala: a practical guide

Short answer: in Kerala land is measured in cents (1 cent = 435.6 sq ft; 100 cents = 1 acre). Before buying, confirm the land type (purayidam or nilam), whether it is in the paddy and wetland data bank, the road width and access, and the documents listed in our document checklist.

Units - 1 cent = 435.6 sq ft ≈ 40.47 m². 1 acre = 100 cents. 1 are ≈ 2.47 cents. - Compare plots by price per cent, not total price. Try the cent ↔ sq ft converter.

Land type - Purayidam: dry/garden land, usually buildable subject to local rules. - Nilam: wet or paddy land. Conversion is restricted under the Kerala Conservation of Paddy Land and Wetland Act. - Data-bank land: listed paddy/wetland; building is generally not allowed without permission.

Access and services - Road width affects building permits and resale. Ask whether the road is a public road or a private pathway with a registered right of way. - Check water (well, panchayat connection) and electricity availability.

Browse plots for sale in Thrissur or plots in Ernakulam.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Procedures and fees change; confirm current rules with the Registration Department, your Village Office and an independent advocate before you pay any advance.