Erumeli

Pilgrimage

Photo Credit: Flickr

Distance (From Pamba Bus Station): 28 Kms

Trip Duration (Including Travel): 1-2 Hours

Transportation Options: Bus / Cab

Travel Tips: None

At a distance of 28 km from Pamba & 58 km from Kumarakom, Erumeli or Erumely is a panchayat in the Kottayam district of Kerala. Situated on the banks of Manimala River, it is one of the famous sightseeing places in Sabarimala.

Erumeli is situated on the way to Sabarimala and is an important halting place for the Sabarimala pilgrims. This place has strong roots in legends and myths associated with Lord Ayyappa. The name Erumely is derived from Erumakolli ('killed the buffalo'). Acoording to mythology, Lord Ayyappa killed 'Eruma' in this place on the way to collect a tiger's milk. 'Eruma' means buffalo in Malayalam and hence the name extract 'erumakolli'.

Erumely is the gateway to Sabarimala. One of the important temples at Erumely is Sree Dharmashastha temple. Vavar masjid is also located very near to Sree Dharmashastha temple. Vavarambalam mosque is dedicated to Vavar, the companion of the deity Sree Ayyappa of the Sabarimala temple. The mosque is unique in that Hindu pilgrims customarily worship here before their trek to Sabarimala. The mosque is also known as Nainar Mosque.

Chandanakkudam is the most popular festival celebrated here in December/ January. At night there is an attractive procession with elephants and Panchavadyam.

1 Must Visit Places in Sabarimala