Pathanamthitta, a district nestled in the verdant embrace of Kerala, is a land where ancient temples whisper stories of devotion and rich cultural heritage. From the hallowed halls dedicated to powerful deities to the serene simplicity of village shrines, the temples in Pathanamthitta offer a unique spiritual experience for every pilgrim and traveller. However, with so many different temples to explore, it can be confusing to choose which place to visit and what to explore first. Let us familiarise you with a list of the most popular temples in Pathanamthitta, each a testament to the enduring faith and artistic brilliance of Kerala.
Best Temples in Pathanamthitta
The famous temples in Pathanamthitta not only serve as some of the popular places of prayers and worship but also as repositories of tradition and symbols of community identity.
Malayalappuzha Devi Temple
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Standing tall on the banks of the Pampa River, the Malayalappuzha Devi Temple in Pathanamthitta reverberates with vibrant energy. Dedicated to the powerful goddess Durga, the temple boasts unique architecture with a sprawling courtyard and a two-tiered roof adorned with intricate carvings depicting mythological tales. According to the legends, the idol of the Goddess was self-manifesting, termed as “Swayambhoo.” The best time to visit this temple is during the annual Navratri festival, witnessing an outpouring of devotion, colourful rituals and the unique Theyyam performance, which is a local art form.
Location: 7RQF+852, Kumbazha – Malayalapuzha Rd, Malayalapuzha, Malayalapuzha-Puthukkulam, Kerala 689666
Timings: 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
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Pampa Ganapathy Temple
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Up next on the list of the famous temples in Pathanamthitta is the Pampa Ganapathy Temple. It is in the bustling town of Pamba and is a must-visit base for the Sabarimala pilgrims. As the guardian deity lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles is revered here. The temple exudes a sense of serenity, with a calming atmosphere and a single-celled sanctum sanctorum housing the idol of Lord Ganesha. Most of the pilgrims visit the temple as a sign of the beginning of their pilgrimage to the Sabarimala Temple. With Lord Ganesha’s blessings, the pilgrims set out on the way to reach the peak where the temple is located.
Location: C389+C68, Pampa, Pamba, Kerala 689662
Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Sree Vallabha Temple
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Standing as a sentinel on the banks of the Manimala River for over 400 years. The Sree Vallabha Temple is one of the architectural marvels among temples in Pathanamthitta. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the highlight of the temple lies in its unique woodwork with Keralan-inspired architecture. The murals on the walls of the temple depict stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. If you are confused about the ideal time to visit them, consider planning during the annual Vallabha Kavil festival, celebrated in March/April. It is a vibrant spectacle with traditional music performances, elephant processions, and a display of fireworks.
Location: Sree Vallabha Temple, Road, Kizhakummuri, Thiruvalla, Kerala 689102
Timings: 4:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
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Sabarimala Sri Dharmasastha Temple
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The Sabarimala Sri Dharmasastha Temple is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India which thousands of devotees visit every year. The temple rests in the Ranni-Perunad village, on top of a hill. One has to make their way through the dense forests of the Periyar Tiger Reserve to reach the temple. Coming to the specifics of the temple, it is dedicated to Lord Ayyappan Swamy, a revered Hindu deity. The annual Makaravilakku festival, culminating in a spectacular display of light on the mountain peak, is a sight that mesmerises and leaves a lasting impression. Also, for the pilgrims embarking on the trek to reach the temple, there are strict dress codes and rituals to follow. It is one of the most visited temples in Pathanamthitta.
Location: Village of Ranni-Perunad in Pathanamthitta
Timings: 3:00 AM to 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 11:30 PM
Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple
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Nestled on the banks of the Pampa River, the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple is another unique architectural gem among the temples of Pathanamthitta. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna in his “Parthasarathy” form or his “Chariot driving” form. One of the most unique activities that set apart the temple is its annual boat race, the Aranmula Vallamkali. It takes place a day after the Onam celebrations and is part of the local traditions. A view of the intricately carved racing boats and the skilled oarsmen add to the experience of being in the temple during that period. The event stands out as a cultural pride.
Location: Mallapuzhassery, Kerala 689533
Timings:4:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
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Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple
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Among all the popular temples in Pathanamthitta, the Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple is perhaps one of the most underrated. The temple sits atop a hillock, offering mesmerising views of the surroundings. Getting to the top for darshan can be a little tiring, but the view will make it up for you. As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the temple was established by the sage Parashurama. As you explore the individual walls of the temple, each depicts a different form of Lord Shiva and has inscriptions from different tales in Mythology. The majority of the devotees visit the temple during the annual Shivratri festival, offering prayers to the Lord.
Location: 9JW6+J54, Thottabhagom- Kaviyoor Road, Kaviyoor, Thiruvalla, Kerala 689105
Timings: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Valiyalukkal Temple
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Located in the heart of Pathanamthitta, the Valiya Koyikkal Temple is dedicated to Bhadrakali, a fierce aspect of Goddess Parvati. Besides the main shrine dedicated to the goddess, multiple smaller shrines are dedicated to the other deities in the Hindu religion as well. The best time to visit the temple is during the Pooram festival during the month of March-April. The vibrant celebration with colourful processions adds to the overall experience for the devotees. Even the elephants are decorated beautifully for an alluring experience with thousands of devotees around.
Location: National Highway 220, Pandalam Rd, Kerala 689501
Timings: 5:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM
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Kodumon Chilanthi Ambalam Temple
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Among the most popular temples in Pathanamthitta, the Kodumon Chilanthi Ambalam Temple is a place you have to visit and explore. It is a unique abode of Lord Shiva. Unlike most of the other temples in the region, the one in the temple’s sanctum sanctorum is a natural formation, which is a massive rock cleft, which the devotees believe to be the manifestation of Lord Shiva. The powerful energy inside the temple is the highlight of the place. For devotees seeking spiritual solace, the temple serves as a haven for them. Furthermore, most devotees visit this temple to cure people suffering from spider bites and toxins as the temple is famed to cure the same.
Location: 5QHH+2WQ, Kodumon, Kerala 691555
Timings: 5:30 AM to 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Sri Subrahmanya Swamy Temple
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This Sri Subrahmanya Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati. This temple in Haripad is a popular pilgrimage destination. The temple is home to a beautiful and serene idol of Lord Murugan, depicted on a peacock mount. Besides the general visits for the devotees to offer their prayers, the temple complex comes alive during the annual Skanda Shashti, a six-day festival celebrated in November/December. During this period, the devotees undergo penance or vratham to pay for their sins and contribute to their individual growth and personal and spiritual development. According to people’s beliefs, the temple precedes the beginning of Kali-yuga.
Location: 33Q6+M9C, bazaar, Silent Valley, Munnar, Kerala 685612
Timings: 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
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Kadammanitta Devi Temple
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Among the most popular devi temples in Pathanamthitta is the Kadammanitta Devi Temple. Dedicated to Bhadrakali, the temple’s presiding idol stands as a guardian deity of the local community. The unique architecture features a conical roof and intricate carvings on the walls depicting scenes from mythology. The most popular period to visit this temple is during the annual Padayani festival, which takes place between April and May. The festival takes place during the first day of the Malayalam month of Medam and ends on the 10th day of Pathamudayam. The experience of being around the temple premises during the festival is alluring and one of a kind.
Location: 8Q49+MW, Kadammanitta-Vazhakunnam Rd, Kadammanitta, Kerala 689649
Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
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The temples in Pathanamthitta are more than just places of worship; they are vibrant expressions of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. Each temple tells a story, unveils a unique architectural style, and embodies the deep faith that resonates within the local communities. As you plan a trip to Kerala next, include one or multiple of these temples into your itinerary for a spiritual escape.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Temples In Pathanamthitta
What is the best time to visit Pathanamthitta's temples?
There is no “standard” time to visit the temples. Each temple has unique and distinct characteristic festivals that are subjective to the presiding deity.
What is the dress code for visiting temples in Pathanamthitta?
Pretty much all the Hindu and Devi temples in Pathanamthitta require the devotees to wear covered and modest clothing. Indian traditional attire is the one most commonly encouraged.
Are there any specific rituals I need to follow during temple visits?
There is no specific rule apart from the general ones like removing the footwear and modest clothing.
Which is the famous temple in Pathanamthitta?
One of the most famous temples in Pathanamthitta are Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple, Pathanamthitta. Sabarimala Sri Dharmasastha Temple Valiyakoikkal Temple Kadammanitta Devi Temple
Is photography allowed inside the temple?
Some temples don’t have any restrictions but a few do. It will vary, so clarify the rules and regulations before you enter the temple premises.
How do I reach Pathanamthitta?
Pathanamthitta is well connected via road, railway and air. You can reach any of the nearby cities in Kerala and reach this place via private car or public transportation. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (TRV).
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