Located in Kerala’s Kollam district lies the Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple, a Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and regarded with the highest respect. The temple’s popularity brings devotees from different parts of the country, and it is treated as a Tirth. Renowned as one of the Pancha Sasta Temples (Five Shasta Temples) alongside Sabarimala, Achankovil, Kulathupuzha, and Kanthamala, Aryankavu attracts devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace. Join along as this guide explores all the details about the Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple, its location, history, and essential information for a convenient visit there. .
History And Mythology Of The Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple
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Surrounded by legend, the Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple is a portrait of an illustrious history. Local lore attributes the temple’s consecration to the mythical sage Parashurama. Another popular belief suggests that the idol of Lord Ayyappa was installed by the Pandiyan King of Madurai. The temple’s name, “Aryankavu,” translates to “the forest of Ayyappa,” hinting at its ancient ties to the surrounding woodlands. If you are a follower and devotee of Lord Ayyappa, chances are that you know about the significance of the Sabarimala Temple, which depicts Ayyappa in a warrior form. The Aryankavu Temple portrays him as a young boy (Bala Ayyappa). This unique representation of the deity adds to the significance of the temple. Devotees primarily visit the temple to seek blessings from the deity for their children’s well-being and growth.
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Best Time To Visit
Image Credit: Sabarimala Samrakshana Sadhas for Facebook Commons
The allure of the temple attracts devotees throughout the year. Most devotees who learn about the Aryankavu Temple’s history in Malayalam are often curious to visit and experience the beauty and serenity of the temple in real time. Like most Hindu temples in Kerala, this temple is open throughout the year. Devotees can visit, offer prayers, and seek blessings from Lord Ayyappa whenever they want. However, the most auspicious time to visit coincides with the concluding days of the Sabarimala Mandala Kalam, typically falling between November and January.
During this period, the temple witnesses a surge in devotees, creating a vibrant spiritual atmosphere. Since thousands (and more) of devotees embark on the Sabarimala pilgrimage, the temple is often overcrowded during that period. So, if you don’t mind the excess crowd, this is probably the best time to visit the temple. If you don’t want the hassle of long lines, and excess crowds, visit during the off-season or shoulder season. The temple often offers a respite from the busy crowds during those periods.
How To Reach Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple?
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If you want to reach within the Ayyappan temple opening time, here’s a breakdown of the routes and transportation modes:
By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest one, from where the devotees can take taxis, local buses, etc.
By Train: Punalur (PNLR) is the closest railway station, 33 kilometres from the temple. Local public buses and taxis are plying from the station to the temple.
By Road: Aryankavu is well-connected by road to major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. National Highway 744 passes close to the temple, making it accessible by car or bus.
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Essential Information For Devotees
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When you visit a temple in Kerala, especially one as popular as the Aryankavu Temple, the key is to be aware of the dos and don’ts. This ensures that you respect the culture and customs without overstepping any boundaries. Following is a breakdown of the essential insights:
Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple timings
The Ayyappan temple opening time is at 04:00 AM. In the morning, the temple remains open until noon. After that, there’s a five-hour break, and the temple reopens at 05:00 PM and is open until 08:00 PM. The priests conduct daily pujas and rituals at designated times during the day.
Dress Code
There are strict guidelines regarding what devotees should wear to the temple. Indian traditional attire like sarees, salwar kameez kurtas, and dhotis are the ideal choices. However, the key is to ensure that devotees wear attire that covers the shoulders and below the knees.
Etiquette And Rules
The first rule is to maintain silence when entering a Hindu temple in Kerala. This is a sign of respect towards the deity and the devotees around. Since constant rituals are happening around the temple, maintaining silence is mandatory. Additionally, follow the rules and regulations about photography, etc. Some parts of the temple might be off-limits when taking pictures.
Things To Do At The Aryankavu Ayyappa Temple
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Your visit to the Aryankavu Ayyappa temple involves a variety of experiences that you need to be part of. It usually starts with the darshan after waiting in the queue for hours. The aarti, a fire puja offering, is a mesmerising spectacle. Witnessing the rhythmic chants and the gentle swaying of the lamp filled with ghee (clarified butter) is a truly captivating experience. Depending on your visit’s time, seeing that in real-time is an alluring experience.
Ongoing rituals continue inside the temple. You always have the choice to participate in those prayers and rituals. Be it chanting hymns or offering diyas, it builds a spiritual connection that every devotee should experience. The temple is renowned for its powerful blessings. Devotees seeking blessings for good health, prosperity, or overcoming challenges can find solace here.
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Highlights Of The Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple
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Besides the list of activities to indulge in at the temple, a few highlights set the temple apart from the rest. Ensure that you aren’t missing out on witnessing those in real-time. The highlights run beyond the spiritual significance.
- You can learn about the history of the Aryankavu Ayyappan temple in Tamil, but that’s not the main aspect to witness. Inside the temple, start by marvelling at the stunning architecture, which is a blend of Kerala and Tamil design. The walls reflect the cultural significance of the place.
- Not just the architectural style, the temple also boasts murals on the walls that depict stories from Hindu mythology. They add to the story, history and aesthetic appeal of the temple
- An intriguing feature of the temple is its location – built approximately 36 feet below the road level. This unique placement adds to the temple’s mystique and creates a sense of serene seclusion.
Places To Visit Around Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple
Visitors can explore the charming surroundings after seeking blessings at the Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple.
1. Thenmala
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Nestled nearby is the town of Thenmala, known for its breathtaking waterfalls and serene natural beauty. Visitors can indulge in trekking, boating, or simply soaking in the scenic landscapes. If nothing attracts your attention, you always have the choice to relax and interact with the locals. There are several small food joints that offer a local taste of Kerala.
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2. Achankovil Temple
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Located roughly 40 km from the Ayyappan temple, don’t forget to visit the Achankovil Temple. The majority of the devotees seeking spiritual immersion make their way towards the temple. The temple is famous for curing devotees that have been bitten by poisonous snakes. There are several legends and histories associated with the temple.
3. Palaruvi Waterfalls
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Sometimes, you need a break from the standard life, and a walk down to the Palaruvi Waterfalls offers that. It is located around 5 km from the Ayyappan temple and is marked as the 32nd-highest waterfall in India. Surrounded by lush greenery and natural rock formations, this waterfall is one of the most unique spots to visit. Taking a bath at the base of the waterfall is allowed.
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The Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple transcends the realm of a mere tourist destination. It is a haven for spiritual seekers, a place to connect with the divine and a window into Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. As you gear up for your next big trip to Kerala, a short detour takes you to the temple and the nearby attractions.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple
Is the Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple the most famous Ayyappa temple?
The Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple happens to be one of the five Ayyappan temples and is equally popular as the rest of the four.
Are there hotels near Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple?
There aren’t many solid hotels or resorts near the Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple. However, you can book your accommodation in the nearby cities.
What food to try near the Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple?
There are small and local food joints near the Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple. All of them offer pure vegetarian foods that you can enjoy.
What to buy from Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple?
A few of the local shops outside the Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple offer small trinkets, photos, and souvenirs that you can consider buying to commemorate your visit.
How far is the Aryankavu Ayyappan Temple from Trivandrum?
The temple is located around 85 km from the main city of Trivandrum, so it shouldn’t take more than 1-2 hours.
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