Magic of South India
Explore the Enchanting South
PPathanamthitta, often referred to as the "Pilgrim Capital of Kerala," is a district blessed with spiritual, natural, and cultural wealth. It is known for its ancient temples, lush forests, rivers, and picturesque landscapes. With the famous Sabarimala Temple located here, Pathanamthitta is a major pilgrimage destination, but it also offers a variety of tourist attractions, including wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls, and eco-tourism spots.
Overview: Sabarimala is one of the most famous Hindu pilgrimage centers in India, attracting millions of devotees annually. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and is located amidst the forests of the Western Ghats. The trek to the temple through the thick forests adds to the spiritual journey.
Best Time to Visit: November to January (Mandala season) and April.
How to Reach: Sabarimala is about 72 km from Pathanamthitta town. The nearest airport is Kochi International Airport, about 160 km away. Pamba, the base for the trek, can be reached by road, and from there, a 4-5 km trek leads to the temple.
Entry Fee: Free.
Overview: Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, is an ancient temple situated on the banks of the Pampa River. The temple is famous for its annual Aranmula Boat Race, which is held during the Onam festival. The temple is also a UNESCO-recognized heritage site for its cultural significance.
Best Time to Visit: August and September (during the Onam festival).
How to Reach: The temple is about 10 km from Chengannur and 14 km from Pathanamthitta. It is easily accessible by road.
Entry Fee: Free.
Overview: Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls, located in the dense forests of Vechoochira, are known for their scenic beauty. The waterfall cascades from a height of about 60 to 100 feet into a deep gorge, creating a stunning visual spectacle. It is a great spot for picnicking and nature walks.
Activities: Trekking, photography, and picnicking.
Best Time to Visit:June to September (during the monsoon) for the best views of the waterfall.
How to Reach: The waterfalls are located about 36 km from Pathanamthitta town and can be reached by taxi or local transport.
Entry Fee: Free.
Overview: Gavi is a pristine eco-tourism destination in Pathanamthitta, located within the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Gavi is ideal for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, offering activities such as trekking, wildlife spotting, and camping. The area is home to rich biodiversity, including elephants, leopards, and various bird species.
Activities: Trekking, bird watching, wildlife safaris, and camping.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach: Gavi is located 52 km from Pathanamthitta and can be reached by taxi or private vehicle. It is accessible through Vandiperiyar.
Entry Fee: ₹25 for adults, ₹10 for children (Guided tours and safaris have separate charges).
Overview: Konni is famous for its elephant training center, where wild elephants are trained for various purposes. The center is located amidst dense forests and offers visitors a chance to interact with elephants and learn about the traditional methods of training. There’s also an elephant museum showcasing the history and culture related to elephants in Kerala.
Activities: Elephant feeding, elephant rides, and photography.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
How to Reach: Konni is about 10 km from Pathanamthitta town and is easily accessible by road.
Entry Fee: 10 for adults, ₹5 for children.
Overview: The Pandalam Palace is historically significant as it is believed to be the place where Lord Ayyappa, the deity of Sabarimala, was raised. The palace houses the Pandalam Valiyakoikkal Temple, where the sacred ornaments of Lord Ayyappa are kept before being taken to Sabarimala during the Makaravilakku festival.
Best Time to Visit: November to January (during the Sabarimala pilgrimage season).
How to Reach: The palace is located about 10 km from Pathanamthitta and can be reached by taxi or bus.
Entry Fee: Free.
Overview: Located in Aranmula, Vijnana Kala Vedi is a cultural center that offers visitors the opportunity to learn traditional Kerala arts such as Kathakali, classical music, and handicrafts. The center is a great way to immerse in the local culture and learn more about Kerala’s rich artistic heritage.
Activities: Art and craft workshops, cultural performances.
Best Time to Visit:Throughout the year.
How to Reach: The center is located in Aranmula, about 14 km from Pathanamthitta, and can be reached by taxi.
Entry Fee: Depends on the type of workshop or program.
Overview: Kaviyoor Rock Cut Temple is a unique temple carved out of a rock face, believed to date back to the 8th century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an important archaeological site in Kerala. The cave temple’s intricate carvings and serene setting make it a fascinating place to visit.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach: The temple is located 5 km from Thiruvalla and about 25 km from Pathanamthitta, accessible by road.
Entry Fee: Free
Overview: Chuttipara is a scenic hillock located near Adoor, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is an ideal spot for trekking and rock climbing, providing an adventurous experience amidst nature. The hill also has a rock shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, adding a spiritual element to the trek.
Activities: Trekking, rock climbing, and photography.
Best Time to Visit: September to February.
How to Reach: Chuttipara is located about 20 km from Pathanamthitta and can be reached by taxi or local transport.
Entry Fee: Free.
Overview: Manjinikkara Church is an important Christian pilgrimage site in Pathanamthitta, dedicated to St. Gregorios of Parumala. The church attracts thousands of devotees during the annual feast, which is celebrated with great reverence. The peaceful surroundings and spiritual ambiance make it a must-visit for pilgrims and tourists.
Best Time to Visit: February (during the annual feast).
How to Reach: The church is located about 6 km from Pathanamthitta town and can be easily reached by taxi or local buses.
Entry Fee: Free.
By Air: The nearest airport to Pathanamthitta is Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), located about 113 km away. From the airport, taxis and buses are available to reach Pathanamthitta. By Train: The nearest railway stations are Chengannur (26 km), Thiruvalla (30 km), and Kollam (65 km). From these stations, regular buses and taxis are available to reach Pathanamthitta. By Road: Pathanamthitta is well-connected by road, with regular bus services from major cities like Trivandrum, Kochi, Kottayam, and Kollam.
Pathanamthitta offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and homestays. Pilgrimage-focused accommodation is also available near the Sabarimala Temple. For a more immersive experience, there are eco-friendly resorts and lodges in areas like Gavi.
The best time to visit Pathanamthitta is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. For pilgrims, the peak season is November to January during the Sabarimala pilgrimage.
Pathanamthitta’s cuisine reflects the flavors of traditional Kerala, with dishes such as appam, puttu, and parotta being popular. Fish curry, made with local spices, is a highlight. For a unique experience, try the vegetarian sadhya, especially during the Onam festival.