Top Destinations in Pathanamthitta

Sabarimala Temple

                    The Sabarimala Temple is another of the most important and sacred pilgrimage places in Pathanamthitta District. Sabarimala Temple is mainly situated amidst forested hilly areas of the Western Ghats region of India and is built in honour of God Ayyappa. The Sabarimala Temple is frequented by millions of pilgrims each year, particularly during the Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku seasons seasons. The important aspects of the clear distinction between temples and practices of the temple include the 41-day period of abstinence, the sacred mountain, and finally, the sacred fast.

Visiting hours: 03:00 am-01:00 pm; 03:00 pm-11:00 pm

Cost of Entry: No Charge

Perunthenaruvi Waterfall

                     Perunthenaruvi Waterfall is an attractive natural spot in Pathanamthitta.Perunthenaruvi Waterfall is famous for its wide and foamy cascade, which falls from a height of 60 meters to a natural pool. This tourist destination is located along the banks of the Pamba River and is preferred due to its accessibility and scenic views. The vicinity of the waterfall offers a very nice nature walk and bird watching, thereby making it a perfect place for family outings. The rugged terrain near the waterfalls has become an adventure destination for those seeking off-beat trails.

Timings: Open 24 hours.

Entry fees: Free

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple

                    A major draw for the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple is its architectural genius and rich history, which every culture lover would find satisfying. It stands out as one of the top places of interest in Pathanamthitta. The temple is associated with Krishna, and its mythology is voluminous. It is also known to take pride in hosting the famous Aranmula Snake Boat Race at the Onam festival every year. TheAranmula Parthasarathy Temple adapted typical ancient Kerala temple designs in which the wooden works and the paintings were perfect. In addition, it contains the Aaramula Kannadi, which is yet another exquisitely designed talismanic mirror. Owing to the picturesque landscape surrounding the temple for the practitioners, a serene river also exists nearby, which provides a calming effect. Timings: 04:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; 05:00 p.m. to 08:00 p.m.Entry fees: Free

Charalkunnu

                    Located in Pathanamthitta, Charalkunnu is an eye-catching hill station offering a far-out panoramic view of the Pamba River and greeneries.Charalkunnu location fits those who are looking for solitude amidst nature. Small rivers and green forests interlace the area, making hiking, camping, and bird-watching exciting. Many retreats and meditation centres are established towards the peaceful hill station. On the way to Charalkunnu, one can see many animals, including Gaur, Deer, Monkeys, and Giant Squirrels, and indulge in their natural activities. Timings: 24 hours open. 

Entry fees: Zero charges.

Konni Elephant Training Center

                    The Konni Elephant Training Center, nestled in Pathanamthitta's green mountains and lush forests, attracts several of its focal animals, such as Asian elephants and several elephant caretakers. It is an elephant training centre that enjoys the good health of the elephants in every aspect. A brief view can also be given of the various processes involved in the daily schedule of this wonderful creature, like how it is trained, fed, or bathed. In addition to its other uses, it functions as a natural resources management student training centre. These two pictures show the care of the animals and their habitats.Konni Elephant Training Center place is interesting mainly because one learns about the different sides of the elephant. You would also understand the part that plays elephants in Kerala's cultural and environmental scope.

Operating Hours: From 09:00 a.m. till 06:00 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)

Entrance Fee: Rs 20 for adults, Rs 5 for children estimated. 

Gavi

                    Gavi is situated in the heart of the lush forests of Pathanamthitta and forms a part of the well-known Periyar Tiger Reserve.Gavi village is considered one of the best places in Pathanamthitta, an ecotourism resort with excellent scenery. The land abounds with large tea estates, hills surrounded with clouds at all times and clear waters. Trekking, bird watching, and Gavi Lake boating can be done here.The vegetation of this region has an extensive range of plant and animal life; a number of which, like the Nilgiri Tahr as well as lion-tailed macaques, are in the endangered list. Gavi is a good destination where the natural environment is rather clean for those who want to enjoy the peace that nature brings.

Timings: Always accessible

Entry fees: Free admission

Kaviyoor Rock Temple

                    Kaviyoor Rock Temple, carved into the body of a huge rock, is one of the finest specimens of antique rock-cut architecture. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the temples of Kerala contain the aura of rich cultural and historical heritage. The speciality of Kaviyoor Rock temple lies in its detailed murals and traditional carvings, signifying various episodes from the Ramayana. The tranquillity and peace that reign in the temple are accentuated during the yearly celebrations. This is when Kaviyoor Rock temple is flooded with worshippers and tourists who come to participate in the fanfare of rituals and cultural activities.

Thriveni Sangamam

                    Charalkunnu, the picturesque hill station in Pathanamthitta, shares a breathtaking vista of the Pamba River and Thriveni Sangamam undulating hills. Thriveni Sangamam is perfect for people who want to spend time amidst natural beauty. Splinters of small streams and lush forests scatter the ground, providing ample trekking, tenting, and bird-watching opportunities. The peaceful ambience of the hill station makes Thriveni Sangamam   is famous place for spiritual retreats and meditation. You can also appreciate the local flora and fauna, such as Gaur, Deer, Monkeys and Giant Squirrels, on your way to Charalkunnu.

Timings: Open 24 hours

Entry fees: Free

Manjinikkara Church

                    The old Manjinikkara Church is another highly visited destination in Pathanamthitta. This Manjinikkara Church is a sacred center for the Syrian Christian community and stands atop a breathtaking hill. It is most famous for housing the sanctified tomb of Patriarch Mor Ignatius Elias III. The Manjinikkara Church observes the Orma Perunnal festival each year. The festival honors the Patriarch in spectacular processions and other cultural performances. The architecture style is a combination of traditional Syrian Christian look and the local look. It provides scenic beauty to the viewers combined with a rich spiritual experience.

Times: 05:00 a.m. to 09:30 p.m.

Entry fee: INR 25 per person, about

Sree Vallabha Temple

                    The Sree Vallabha Temple, which pays allegiance to the preserver Lord Vishnu,Sree Vallabha Temple also famous for the artistry of its architecture apart from the holism. Situated in the centre of the town, Pathanamthitta, Sree Vallabha temple serves the purpose of a religious building. However, it also offers more than that to its visitors. The evening Kathakali performances are very famous since there is no parallel to this traditional Indian dance drama. This Sree Vallabha temple complex comprises a huge, ambitious holy pond that is said to cure diseases, a 300-year-old jack tree that devotees worship, and other sacred structures. The fests held yearly in this temple are a feast for music, dance, and a wonderful set of processes.

Timings: 04:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.; 05:00 p.m. to 08:00 p.m.

Entry fees: Free"