Pathanamthitta

PATHANAMTHITTA

HEADQUARTERS OF PILGRIMAGE TOURISM

The smallest of Kerala districts, situated in the southern region of Kerala, Pathanamthitta has nearly half of its total area under forest cover. It is the pilgrim center of Kerala, renowned for the shrine of Lord Ayappa in the Sabari Hills, drawing millions of devotees from near and far off places. The district also is known as a center for experiencing and learning some of the cultural as well as traditional practices of Kerala. Kollam, Kottayam and Alappuzha form the adjoining districts of Pathanamthitta.

PLACES TO VISIT IN PATHANAMTHITTA

Gavi

One of the most beautiful places in India, Gavi is a small village tucked between tea estates and wide and dense forests. A unique project in itself, the place is a model of eco-tourism site bringing to the world its spellbinding abundance in flora and fauna. Gavi is situated some 14 km away from the famed Periyar Tiger Reserve and is heaven on Earth, quite literally.

Perunthenaruvi Waterfall

A natural waterfall with captivating surroundings is situated on the banks of the River Pamba. The fall is 60 to 100 ft deep which pours down on a rocky bed. The place is a favourite picnic spot among locals as well as tourists. Located on the lap of the majestic Western Ghats, Perunthenaruvi adorns herself with her ever gorgeous waterfalls and the mystic lush forest glides that wrap her in their serene arms.

Thriveni Sangamam

Situated on the way to Sabarimala, the Thriveni Sanganam as the name suggests is the point where the Holy Pamba River meets with the Manimala River in its north and with the Achankovil River in the south. The devotees stop here to take a dip in the holy water to wash away their sins. Millions of visitors also come here to enjoy the beautiful landscape of the place.

Konni Forest Reserve

This place is considered to be the equivalent to an elephant's cage. The reason being is that the main attraction of the region is a massive wooden cage where elephant are trained.One of the major attractions at Konni is the giant wooden cages or the elephant kraals used to house the elephants. Locally known as Aanakoodu, they can house up to 3 to 4 elephants.

Kaviyoor Rock Temple

If you are looking forward to explore the fascinating culture of Kerala, you are at right place. Kaviyoor Rock Temple is the only cave temple left in the state which glorifies the culture of the area more that its spiritual aspect. This ancient cave temple established in Tamil Pallava style is devoted to Lord Hanuman, the Monkey God. Thus, one can witness the large number of monkey in an around the temple who are feasted on regular basis.

Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple

Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple is an ancient temple located on a small hilltop at Kaviyoor, Pathanamthitta District. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, this temple is one of the most popular and significant Shiva Temple in Kerala. Built in a unique style of architecture, the temple is also popularly known as Thrikkaviyoor Mahadeva Temple.his iconic temple is currently preserved as a monument by the Archaeological Department.

Manjinikkara Church

Another significant Syrian Christian's pilgrim center, Manjinikkara Church is placed in Manjanikkara on the top of a hill about 6 km from Pathanamthitta. This church was created by Mor Yullus Elias Qoro and is known for its remarkable altar with figures of Saint and Jesus. However, the salient feature of this church is ascribed as the presence of the holy tomb of Patriarch Mar Ignatius

Malayalapuzha Devi Temple

An epitome of art and architectural marvel of old times, this temple is considered to be one of the largest Devi temples. It is dedicated to Goddess Durga and it is a common belief that whoever worships here with true heart is granted his/her wished and is aided in realizing their dreams.The Malayalapuzha Bhagavathy Temple is a 3000 year temple where a 5’5” tall Goddess, known as the 'Amma’.