PATHANAMTHITTA
A hilly terrain of pristine beauty,
Pathanamthitta is a treat to the eye with its vast, mending stretches
of forests, rivers and rural landscapes. More than 50% of the
total area of this land to temples, rivers, mountain ranges and
coconut groves is covered by forests. Bordered by the Western
Ghats in the east, Kollam district in the south, Alappuzha district
in the west and Kottayam and Idukki districts in the north, Pathanamthitta
can rightly be called the headquarters of pilgrimage tourism in
the state.
Places
of Attraction
Sabarimala
(Pilgrim Centre): This is a well-known pilgrim center in the rugged terrains of
the Western Ghats. The holy shrine dedicated to Lord Ayyappa attracts
crores of pilgrims from all over, especially from other parts
of South India.
Pamba: This is the main halting point on the way to Sabarimala. It is
also known as Thriveni Sangamam - the meeting point of three rivers.
Aranmula: This is another pilgrim place for Hindus. The temple is dedicated
to Lord Krishna. A major attraction is the snake boat races held
as part of the festival in August/ September. Aranmula is famed
for its hand-made mirrors of polished metal called the “Aranmula
Kannadi”.
Perunthenaruvi
(36km from Pathanamthitta via Vachoochira): The Perunthenaruvi waterfalls on the banks of the Pamba river
is a favourite spot for both domestic and foreign tourists.
Charalkunnu: This picturesque hill station offers a panoramic view of the nearby
valleys. A camp house on the hill provides comfortable lodging.
Kakki
Reservoir: Tigers, elephants and monkeys can be sighted in the forest surrounding
the reservoir.
Vijnana
Kala Vedi Cultural Centre: Vijnana Kala Vedi Cultural Centre founded by Louba Schilda French
scholar under the Indo French cultural exchange programme, was
started with UNESCO support. Those interested in culture and the
arts would not want to miss it. The center offers residential
training courses in Kerala’s traditional arts and crafts
like Kathakali, Mohiniyattom, Bharathanatyam, Kalaripayattu, Music,
Wood carvings etc.
Maramon: Maramon
is about 16kms east of Thiruvalla. The Maramon Convention, believed
to be the largest Christian gathering in Asia, is an assembly
of Christians from all over India, who come here to listen to
the gospels read and expounded by scholars of Christianity throughout
India and abroad
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