Pathanamthitta has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was a part of the Kingdom of Travancore, which was ruled by the Maharajas of Travancore from the 18th to the mid-20th century. The region played a significant role in the cultural and social development of the kingdom, and several important temples and institutions were established in Pathanamthitta during this time.

In the early 20th century, the region witnessed several social and political reforms, including the establishment of the SNDP Yogam, which aimed to uplift the socially and economically disadvantaged sections of society. The region also played a key role in the Indian independence movement, with several prominent leaders hailing from Pathanamthitta.In 1982, Pathanamthitta was carved out of the neighboring districts of Kollam and Alappuzha to form a new district, with the town of Pathanamthitta serving as its administrative headquarters. Since then, the district has witnessed rapid development in several fields, including education, healthcare, and tourism.