Top places to visit

Top Places to Visit

Pathanamthitta is a blend of spiritual sanctity, lush landscapes, and unique traditions. Whether you're a pilgrim, a nature enthusiast, or a cultural explorer, this district offers serene temples, forested hills, waterfalls, riversides, and vibrant heritage experiences that showcase the soul of Kerala.

Here’s a curated list of the must-visit places in Pathanamthitta:

1. Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple

 ~70 km from Pathanamthitta town (in the Western Ghats)
 Open during Mandala (Nov–Jan) & monthly poojas

 Why Visit?

• One of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India, attracting millions of devotees
• Nestled in the dense forests of the Periyar Tiger Reserve
• Reach via a 4 km forest trek from Pamba River

 Tip: Only men and women aged above 10 and below 50 are traditionally allowed. Follow rituals and dress codes strictly.

 2. Aranmula Village & Parthasarathy Temple

 ~10 km from Chengannur

 Why Visit?

• Famous for the Aranmula Boat Race (held during Onam) on the Pamba River
• Visit the Parthasarathy Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna
• Known for the Aranmula Kannadi, a unique metal mirror crafted nowhere else

Tip: Great for cultural lovers—buy a handcrafted mirror as a souvenir.

 3. Gavi Eco-Tourism

 ~110 km | Inside Periyar Tiger Reserve

 Why Visit?

• An offbeat paradise with thick forests, cardamom plantations, and waterfalls
• Ideal for wildlife sightings, trekking, birdwatching, and camping
• Home to elephants, sambar deer, Indian gaur, and rare birds

 Tip: Requires advance booking through Kerala Forest Development Corporation.

 4. Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls

 ~36 km from Pathanamthitta town (near Ranni)

 Why Visit?

• A stunning wide cascade of water falling into a rocky gorge on the Pamba River
• Great for nature walks, photography, and picnics
• Less crowded, clean, and serene

 Tip: Visit during monsoon/post-monsoon season (Aug–Nov) for best flow.

 5. Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple

 Near Thiruvalla

 Why Visit?

• One of Kerala’s oldest temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva
• Built in traditional Kerala style with beautiful wood carvings and mural paintings
• Spiritual and architectural significance

 Tip: Nearby you can also visit Kaviyoor Cave Temple, an ancient rock-cut shrine.

 6. Konni Elephant Training Center

 ~11 km from Pathanamthitta town

 Why Visit?

• A historic place where elephants were once trained for temple and forest work
• Now a wildlife rehab center with a small museum and elephant view shelters
• Great for kids, families, and wildlife lovers

 Tip: Visit early morning to see elephants during feeding or bath time.

 7. Adavi Eco-Tourism & Coracle Ride

 Near Konni, on the banks of the Kallar River

 Why Visit?

• Enjoy a round boat (coracle) ride through calm forest waters
• Peaceful picnic area with options for tent camping and river bathing
• Surrounded by dense forest and birdsong

 Tip: Perfect for couples, families, or solo nature lovers.

 8. Charalkunnu Hills

 Near Kozhencherry

 Why Visit?

• A peaceful hilltop retreat with wide views of the Pamba River valley
• Ideal for sunset views, picnics, and tent camping
• Great for weekend getaways and spiritual retreats

Tip: Bring your camera and snacks—less commercial, more scenic.

 9. Muloor Smarakam (Muloor Memorial)

 Near Elavumthitta

 Why Visit?

• Memorial of Muloor S. Padmanabha Panicker, a noted poet and social reformer
• Exhibits on Kerala’s renaissance and literature
• Peaceful and educational atmosphere

 Tip: Combine with a visit to nearby rural heritage villages.

10. Malayalapuzha Devi Temple

 ~8 km from Pathanamthitta town

 Why Visit?

• A well-known temple dedicated to Bhadrakali, believed to grant wishes
• Noted for its sculptures, ancient idols, and positive energy
• Very popular among locals for spiritual rituals

 Tip: Visit during Malayalapuzha Pooram festival (March–April) for vibrant processions.

 At a Glance: Must-Visit Places in Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta is a soulful blend of devotion, greenery, and tradition. From sacred riverbanks to forest trails and temple towers, every place here invites you to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself and with nature.

Pathanamthitta – Where the sacred flows with the serene.