Cardamom (or cardamon) refers to several plants of the similar genera Elettaria and Amomum in the ginger family Zingiberaceae. Both genera are native to India, Nepal and Bhutan; they are recognised by their small seed pods, triangular in cross-section and spindle-shaped, with a thin, papery, outer shell and small black seeds. Today, Guatemala is the biggest producer and exporter of cardamom in the world, followed by India. Some other countries such as Sri Lanka have also begun to cultivate it. Elettaria pods are light green while Amomum pods are larger and dark brown.
It is the world's third most expensive spice by weight, outstripped in market value only by saffron and vanilla.
Kumily is a town in the Cardamom Hills near Thekkady and the Periyar Tiger Reserve, in the Idukki District of Kerala State in South India at the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The state of Tamil Nadu is just across the town. It is a major tourist destination and a spices trading center.
With nearby Periyar Tiger Reserve and Thekkady lake, Kumily also has attracted tourist traffic.
Kumily is a busy town throughout the year. May it be Sabarimala devotees (Oct to Jan) or Tourists (Feb to Sep) or Workers from the districts (any time) Kumily welcomes & attracts everyone with its charm and warmth.
The nearest Airport is Madurai (125 km) and Railway Station is Madurai to Theni(under BG conversion) . The famous pilgrim Centre Sabarimala is 150 km from Kumily (by NH proper route).