Majority of the population is distributed in Kaniyambetta, Panamaram, Vellamunda, Edavaka, Thodarnadu, Thavinjal, Thirunelli, Kottathara, Padinjarathara, Thariyode, Pozhuthana, Vengapally Grama Panchayats and Mananthavady, Kalpetta Municipalities in Wayanad District
According to the 2011 Census total population of Kurichiyan in Kerala is 35,171, out of which 17,643 males and 17,528 females. The socio-economic status report of Scheduled Tribe Development Department, 2013 indicates that the total population of the community is 35909, out of which 18,129 males and 17780 females. The Kurichiyan community follows joint family system.
Their taravads are called ‘mittom’. The Kurichiyan are segmented into four subdivisions, viz, Kurichiyan of Wayanad or Jati Kurichiyan, Kunnam Kurichiyan of Kannavam forest, Anchilla Kurichiyan of Thirunelli and Pathiri Kurichiyan. The Kurichiyan are divided into a number of exogamous kulams (clans) like Chelpa, Puthoor, Nellukudiyan, Palodan, Kunnakkole, Maradi, Edathana, Othankolan, Enniyora.
Thalakkal Chanthu, who died a heroic death fighting against British rule along with Pazhassi Raja, was a member of the Kurichiyan community.
Pulippattu is the traditional art form of the community performed by men. Chenda is used during the performance.