We welcome architects who would want to experiment with sustainable architecture. We encourage architects to implement their innovative designs with nature-friendly materials.
A small step towards a substantial change for a greener and healthier tomorrow.
Kalrayan Hills EcoFarm
Keerakadai, Chinna Kalrayan Hills,
Therkunadu Village,
Karumandurai, Salem District,
Tamil Nadu – 636 138.
Nannilam © 2023. All rights reserved.
At NANNILAM, we strive to promote positive eco-social culture across the globe by establishing a global eco-village model that serves as both a living laboratory and educational seed bank for knowledge and wisdom. As our planet undergoes changes,The Nannilam Experiment seeks to inspire and educate communities to develop regionally appropriate cultures that coexist with their environment. Our ultimate mission is to facilitate the evolution of a sustainable human culture by sharing intelligent and environmentally responsible solutions. To achieve this, we plan to establish research centers and centers of excellence that provide an open replicable platform for knowledge exchange, allowing indigenous knowledge to gain global exposure and for global knowledge to be accessed locally, benefiting everyone.
Our aim is to encourage individuals to recognize the fundamental connection between themselves, other species, and the shared environment. We believe that by nurturing meaningful relationships and seeding better ideas in the minds and hearts of young people in communities, sustainable solutions shall grow and spread beyond the boundaries of our project, creating ripples of positive change. Our hope is that these ripples will make a world of difference creating a collective wave of positive change that transforms the world for the better.
We vision of a world where everything is interconnected, from the smallest cells to the vast expanses of the cosmos, working together as part of a greater whole. We understand that the evolution of single-celled organisms into multicellular beings has opened up new possibilities for perception and movement, allowing for more complex and sophisticated interactions.
Our dream is to create such a multicultural and collaborative community that celebrates diversity and brings together various paths,practices & perception from different disciplines to create a sanctuary for those who seek a contemplative and purposeful way of life, where individuals can explore the depths of their own being, simplify and refine their existence, and chart a course of self-improvement that is both meaningful and sustainable.
We believe that by working together, we can build a society that values collaboration-compassion, love & innovation creating new pathways to an eco-cultural evolution that can ensure the future of humanity forever.
Farming is at the heart of Nannilam, and we are committed to using sustainable and regenerative farming practices that promote soil health, biodiversity, and animals. We believe that by growing our own food, we can reduce our carbon footprint, support local agriculture, and provide healthy and nutritious food for our community. Our village is situated amidst lush greenery, with streams flowing nearby and a fruit forest that is full of life. Living in such an environment can be a transformative experience, where you can learn about indigenous farming techniques, and connect with nature in a profound way.
We grow a wide variety of fruits like mango,wood apple,bananas,starfruit chiku guava using natural farming techniques such as composting, intercropping, crop rotation, and mulching. Our approach to farming is based on the principles of permaculture, which involves designing systems that mimic natural ecosystems, and prioritize the health and well-being of the soil, plants, and animals.
At Nannilam, you will have the opportunity to participate in farming activities and learn about indigenous farming practices from experienced farmers. You will get hands-on experience in planting, weeding, harvesting,composting,water management and other farming techniques. You will also learn about the medicinal properties of various plants and herbs that are grown locally, and how they can be used to treat common ailments.
Apart from farming, there are many other activities that you can enjoy while staying at our eco-village. You can go for nature walks, bird watching, and explore the nearby streams and waterfalls. You can also participate in workshops on topics such as natural building, renewable energy, and sustainable living. At Nannilam, we believe that farming is not just a way to produce food, but also a way to connect with the land and build community. Our village is a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about living in harmony with nature and are dedicated to creating a sustainable future.
Nannilam’s ecological pillar forms the foundation of the community’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The community plans to embrace eco-friendly practices such as the use of renewable energy sources, rainwater harvesting, composting, and waste reduction to promote sustainable living practices and minimize its carbon footprint.
The community also recognizes the significance of traditional organic farming methods along with natural architecture that works in harmony with the local environment. Nannilam is committed to building with natural materials that are locally available or recycled, to reduce its impact on the environment.
Furthermore, we acknowledge the importance of conserving natural habitats and restoring damaged ecosystems. The community advocates for policies that promote the conservation of local flora & fauna. By promoting the use of traditional plants, medicines, and herbs and establishing local seed banks, Nannilam aims to revive indigenous plant and tree varieties.
Through the ecological pillar, Nannilam aspires to create a self-sufficient and organic community that will be inherited by future generations. The community serves as a model for sustainable living and is dedicated to inspiring other communities to adopt such practices.
Nannilam is dedicated to fostering an economy that is cooperative and mutually supportive, rather than one that is solely based on competition and profit. The community employs various practices, such as shared resources, cooperative businesses, and regenerative agriculture, to meet its needs and decrease its dependence on external markets. Through these practices, Nannilam aims to create a more resilient and self-sufficient economy that is in harmony with the natural environment.
Achieving economic independence and reducing dependence on external resources are key goals for Nannilam. This provides the community with the freedom to experiment and research more on indigenous cultures and practices. Any surplus income generated by the community’s economic activities will be used for maintenance or reinvested back into the community for new creative projects. This ensures the long-term sustainability and vitality of the community.
There are several ways in which Nannilam will achieve economic viability. One of these is through organic farming. The community plans to grow and sell organic produce, such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, to local markets, restaurants, and co-ops. We also create Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs, where members of the community will purchase a share of the farm’s harvest in advance.
Another way to generate income is through sustainable tourism. Nannilam will attract visitors by offering eco-tourism experiences, such as guided nature hikes, farm tours, and stays at various natural buildings and healing centers. By charging a fee for these experiences, Nannilam will generate income while also educating visitors about sustainable living practices.
Nannilam also plans to create micro green enterprises and centers of excellence that support the local economy, such as natural building cooperatives, renewable energy cooperatives, waste management, value-added products, artisanal crafts, etc. By creating such enterprises that align with the values of the community, we aim to generate income while also creating jobs for community members. Nannilam also partners with local businesses or corporations to create formal partnerships or informal collaborations, such as sharing resources or providing services to one another.
Education and training are also essential for promoting sustainable living practices in the community. Nannilam will offer workshops and educational training on permaculture, natural building, renewable energy harnessing, community living,various skill building etc. Additionally, We also provide a facility for others to host workshops. Providing training and education for individuals interested in pursuing green jobs further enhances the local workforce and promotes a sustainable future.
Sharing resources is another way for Nannilam to reduce expenses and become more financially independent. Residents can share tools, vehicles, equipment, living spaces, and community spaces. By pooling resources, we can reduce costs and become more financially sustainable.
Finally, by embracing sustainable practices and utilizing renewable resources, Nannilam will become a hub for green businesses, such as organic farming, renewable energy installation, and eco-tourism. This not only creates job opportunities for the local community but also promotes the use of environmentally friendly practices and products, leading to a healthier and more conscious economy.
The Nannilam community places great importance on creating and nurturing a supportive social structure. The members are encouraged to actively participate in various community activities such as attending regular meetings, sharing meals, and working together on community projects. The community regularly hosts events and workshops to promote social bonding and establish relationships not only within the community but also with the larger community outside. Furthermore, the community is dedicated to social justice and aims to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
The social aspect of the community includes the following initiatives:
By prioritizing the social aspect of the community, Community members in Nannilam will form strong bonds with their neighbors, feel supported and included, and gain a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Nannilam’s cultural foundation seeks to safeguard and celebrate the rich heritage, customs, handicrafts, and creative expressions of its local community. The community upholds this objective by promoting cross-cultural relationships and fostering cultural exchange and understanding through policies that encourage mutual respect and appreciation. Regular events and celebrations are organized to showcase local art, music, and culture while embracing and learning from other cultures as well. By cultivating diversity, Nannilam aims to build a collective sense of identity and pride among residents and promote cross-cultural understanding, leading to the personal growth and development of all members. The community is committed to defending and protecting cultural heritage sites and artifacts through specific policies while promoting mindfulness and self-reflection to allow individuals to reflect on their personal and cultural values and develop a deeper sense of connection with themselves and others
Some of the ways that Nannilam promotes cultural diversity and preservation may include:
The Kalvarayan Hills, situated in the Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India, are a breathtaking natural wonder, with vibrant vegetation and unique fauna exclusive to the region. During the monsoon season, the hills transform into a lush wonderland, bursting with wildflowers and greenery, offering a front-row seat to the season of growth and rejuvenation. The hills are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, monkeys, and exotic birds, as well as a plethora of medicinal plants and herbs that have been used for centuries by local communities for their healing properties.
Beyond their natural beauty, the Kalvarayan Hills hold significant cultural and historical value. The area has been inhabited by various tribes, including the Irula, Malai Arayan, Paniyan, and Soliga, for centuries. These tribes primarily relied on hunting, fishing, and gathering wild fruits, nuts, and berries for their livelihoods. The Irula tribe, in particular, was known for their expertise in traditional medicine and tracking animals through the dense forest.
The history of the Kalvarayan Hills can be traced back to the time of Emperor Krishna Deverayar of the Vijaya Nagara Kingdom, when the native people of the hills were called Vedar. The Karalar community later invaded from Kanchipuram and settled in the hills, intermarrying with the Vedar community. The resulting mixed population, known as Malayali, refer to themselves as Goundars. The Kalvarayan Hills serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between humans and nature and the importance of preserving our planet’s natural resources for future generations.
Normally Monogamy is in practice among the Malayalis.Agriculture is the Main occupation in the Kalvaryan Hills. Millet varieties (ragi, varadu, samai, tinai, cholam, cumbu) are being cultivated and in some places paddy, pulses, chillies, red gram, groundnut, tobacco, mustard, and varieties of beans are also grown as secondary cultivation.
We are thrilled to invite you to our upcoming treehouse workshop. This hands-on learning experience is perfect for anyone interested in the art of building a treehouse whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner.
This workshop will teach you everything you need to know about selecting a tree, designing a treehouse, and constructing it safely and sustainably. You’ll learn about different types of trees and their structural properties, as well as how to create a safe and comfortable living space up in the canopy.
In addition to learning practical skills, you’ll also have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for sustainable living and outdoor education. Whether you’re looking to build your own treehouse or simply want to learn more about this fascinating field, this workshop is the perfect place to start.
We are excited to invite you to our upcoming Mud Wattle and Daub Workshop by Earth Building a firm by young talented architects Stanzin and Samyuktha with whom you will have the opportunity to learn about traditional building techniques and sustainable construction practices. This hands-on workshop will give you the chance to get your hands dirty and create a beautiful and functional hexagonal structure using natural materials.
In this workshop, you will learn how to create a strong and durable lattice structure using woven branches or sticks (wattle), which is then covered with a mixture of mud, clay, and other natural materials (daub). You will learn how to mix and apply the mud and clay mixture, as well as how to add decorative elements to your structure. This is a great opportunity to learn about the benefits of using natural materials in construction and how this technique can be used to create sustainable and environmentally friendly buildings.
The workshop will take place on. The workshop will be led by experienced instructors who are passionate about natural building and sustainability. All ages and skill levels are welcome, and no prior experience is necessary. This is a hands-on workshop, so be prepared to get dirty and have fun!
The structure you will be building in this workshop can be used as an interpretation centre . You will have the opportunity to add your own personal touches and creativity to the design.
We believe that this workshop will be a valuable experience for anyone interested in sustainable living and natural building practices. We hope that you will join us for this exciting event!
