Tourist attractions in Pathanamthitta
district
Pathanamthitta is a district located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty and religious significance. Located in the central part of Kerala, this district covers an area of about 2,638 sq km. Pathanamthitta is bordered by Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki and Kollam districts.
One of the striking features of Pathanamthitta is its beautiful landscape with the Western Ghats on one side and the low plains on the other. The district is adorned with lush greenery, innumerable rivers and beautiful waterfalls. The river Pampa, which originates in the Sabarimala hills and flows through Pathanamthitta, is of religious importance.
Pathanamthitta is known as the "Pilgrimage Capital of Kerala" due to its association with many important religious centers. Sabarimala, one of the most famous Hindu pilgrimage centers in India, is located in this district. Every year lakhs of devotees undertake the challenging pilgrimage to Ayyappan's hill shrine at Sabarimala.
Apart from Sabarimala, there are many ancient temples, mosques and mosques in Pathanamthitta. The district has a diverse religious composition, with Hinduism, Christianity and Islam being the major religions. Annual festivals and religious processions in Pathanamthitta attract a large number of devotees and tourists from different parts of the country.
Must Visit Places in Pathanamthitta
Pathanamthitta is also famous for its cultural heritage. The region is famous for classical dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, as well as traditional music and arts. Various cultural festivals and events are held throughout the year in the district that showcase the warm traditions and customs of Kerala.
Sabarimala is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Ayyappan. Nestled amidst the lush green Western Ghats, it attracts lakhs of devotees every year, especially during Mandala season (November to January). The temple is known for its rigorous rituals and the arduous journey that devotees undertake to reach the temple.
Peruntheruvi Falls is a beautiful natural spring located on the banks of Pampa River. The waterfall gushes from a height of about 60 feet and creates an awe-inspiring sight. Tourists can enjoy the beauty of the waterfall, take a dip in the pool below and enjoy nature photography.
3. Gavi:-
Gavi is a tranquil and untouched eco-tourism destination in the Western Ghats. Surrounded by dense forests, tea plantations and wildlife, Gavi offers an immersive experience in nature. Tourists can enjoy activities like trekking, bird watching, jeep safari and boating in the serene Gavi Lake.
4. Konni Elephant Training Centre:-
Koni Elephant Training Center is a special attraction where elephants are trained using traditional methods. Visitors can watch the elephants being bathed, fed and trained. The center offers opportunities for elephant rides and interaction with these majestic creatures.
Parumala Church known as St. Gregorius Orthodox Church is an important pilgrimage center for Christians. This is the final resting place of Parumala Saint Gregorios, a venerable member of the Malankara Orthodox Syriac Church. The architecture and serene atmosphere make the mosque a popular spiritual center.
6. Charalkunnu:-
Charalkunn is a beautiful hill station blessed with natural beauty and pleasant climate. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, forests and tea plantations. It also has facilities for adventure activities like children's park, open-air auditorium, hilltop rock climbing and mountaineering.
Pandalam is a historical city known for its cultural and religious significance. It is believed to be the birthplace of Ayyappan and the Pandalam palace is associated with the royal family associated with the deity. The city hosts the famous Pandalam Ayyappa Temple and the annual Pandalam Palace Pooram festival.
8. Maramon Convention:
The Maramon Convention is an annual Christian gathering on the banks of the Pampan River. It is the largest Christian convention in Asia and attracts thousands of believers from various denominations. The program includes sermons, hymns and spiritual gatherings.
9. Aranmula Parthasarathi Temple:
Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, located at Aranmula in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna as Parthasarathy (Arjuna's charioteer in the Mahabharata). Here are some details about the temple.
10. Adavi-Kuttavanchi:
Adavi-Kuttavanchi is a scenic and picturesque region located in Konni, a small town in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, India. Adavi-Kuttavanchi is renowned for its lush rainforests, glistening rivers, and captivating wildlife. It offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of nature while exploring its numerous attractions.
These are the major tourist destinations of Pathanamthitta district and each offers a unique experience to the visitors.