Pandalam

Historical | Pilgrimage

Photo Credit: Flickr

Distance (From Pathanamthitta): 16 Kms

Trip Duration (Including Travel): 2-3 Hours

Transportation Options: Bus / Cab

Travel Tips: None

At a distance of 16 Kms from Pathanamthitta & 40 Kms from Sabarimala, Pandalam is a holy town as it is the birth place of Lord Ayappa in human form. Pandalam is famous for Sri Ayyappa Temple, Pandalam Palace & Pattupurukavu Temple.

Sri Ayyappa Temple:
Also known as Valiyakoikal Temple, it was built in the similar lines of Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala. Pilgrims usually stop here to worship before proceeding to Sabarimala. Makaravilaku is the major festival celebrated at this temple in mid January. Three days prior to the Makaravilaku festival, the sacred ornaments of Sree Ayyappa are taken in a procession from Pandalam to Sabarimala.

Pandalam Palace:
This is the place where Lord Ayyappa has grown up during his childhood. It is located adjacent to Ayyappa temple.

Pattupurukavu Devi Temple:
At a distance of about half Km from Ayyappa Temple, it is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. Annual festival is celebrated on Aswathy day in month of Meenam (Mar/Apr), along with Navaratri.