Hilpulayans are the most backward type of tribes staying in
Kerala. They inhabit areas in
Devikulam block panchayat,
Idukki District. Most of them live in small huts in the banned secluded government plots and other forest areas.
The tribe members are manual labors and engaged in forest wealth collection. One fraction of this community is traditionally skilled in the art of weaving.
Hilpulayans have their own secretive customs and regulations. They speak a distinct language, similar in many ways to Tamil.
