Pathanamthitta@Keralatourismonline

Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta, a district, which lies with the 'Sahyaparwatha' mountains has half of its area filled with thick forest. The district doesnot have any seashore. It is in this district the famous temple of 'Sabarimala' dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.

PROFILE
Area	2,642 sq. km.
Climate	Tropical monsoons
Location	The newly formed Pathanamthitta district is bordered by the districts of Kottayam and Idukki in the north and Kollam in the south. Pathanamthitta is located on the way to Sabarimala, a famous pilgrim centre in Pathanamthitta district.
Tourist season	August to March
Language	Malayalam is the official language. English is also used among the business class.
Altitude	500-1000 mts. above sea level
Time Zone	(Indian standard Time + 5.30 hours GMT).

TOURIST SPOTS
Sabarimala	A famous hindu pilgrim centre, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. From the river side of Pampa, the pilgrims have to climb up 4 km in the Neelimala, to reach the temple in the midst of the thick forest. Womens, between the age group of 12-60 are not allowed in the temple due to mythological factors.
Aaranmula	Another pilgrim centre, which houses a temple dedicated to Parthasaarathy (Lord Krishna). Famous for 'Aaranmula Kannadi', the mirror in metal alloys. Every year during onam season, the thrilling Uthruttathi Boat race is held here.
Vijnanakalavedi	A cultural centre, set up by Ms. Louba Schild - an European artist living in Kerala since 1968. studying and performing Kadhakali - to introduce foreign visitors to Indian arts. The objective is to contribute to the preservation of traditional art, not in creating a museum of the past, but in keeping alive the atmosphere which gave birth and maintained their vitality. Arts like Kadhakali, Mohiniyattam, Kalaripayatt, Wood carving, mural painting, Kolams and Hathayoga, Cooking ...etc are taught here
Maraman	The largest Christian convension of the Asian continent, is being held here in the February month. 16 kms away from Thiruvalla, a major town in Pathanamthitta.
Poonthenaruvi	A waterfall of about 100m height.
Mannadi	A place of historical importance. It is here, the famous warrior Veluthampi Dalawa committed suicide.