Tucked away in the picturesque Kollam district of Kerala, Aryankavu is a hidden gem that offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual enrichment. Nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats, this region is a visual treat for nature lovers, with its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and serene rubber plantations. The area is also home to ancient temples, which add to its spiritual allure. Among these, the Aryankavu Dharma Sastha Temple stands as a significant cultural and religious landmark. Let’s dive deeper into the attractions of Aryankavu and the spiritual richness of the Aryankavu Dharma Sastha Temple.
Where is Aryankavu?
Aryankavu is situated near Thenmala, along National Highway 744, in the Punalur region of Kollam district. The region is part of the Western Ghats, which adds to its lush, green surroundings and mesmerizing landscapes. Aryankavu lies 78 kilometers from Kollam and about 36 kilometers from Punalur, making it easily accessible for travelers from across the region.
The Aryankavu Dharma Sastha Temple: A Spiritual Haven
The Aryankavu Dharma Sastha Temple, one of the main attractions in the region, holds immense religious and historical significance. This ancient temple is believed to have been consecrated by the sage Parashurama, who is credited with the establishment of several temples in the region.
Location and Architecture
Situated along the Kollam-Tenkasi National Highway, the Aryankavu Dharma Sastha Temple is located 35 feet below the road level, adding to its mystique and sense of seclusion. The temple is part of the five Dharma Sastha temples consecrated by Parashurama, with Aryankavu being one of the most revered. The temple follows a fascinating blend of both Kerala and Tamil traditions. While the temple follows Malayali customs within the sanctum, it celebrates festivals with Tamil practices, reflecting the cultural fusion of the region.
Deity and Rituals
The main deity of the temple is Lord Dharma Sastha (Ayyappa), worshipped here in his youthful form. The idol is depicted in a unique posture, slightly tilted towards the right, symbolizing a bridegroom in a wedding-like gesture. The deity's form, unlike other temples, does not face directly towards the idol, adding an interesting aspect to its worship.
The temple is known for its daily poojas, which are conducted seven times a day — a rare practice in many temples. This frequent offering of prayers is a testament to the devotion and the religious significance the temple holds for the local community.
Thrikalyanam: The Rare Wedding Ritual
One of the most unique aspects of the Aryankavu Dharma Sastha Temple is the Thrikalyanam ritual, which takes place during the temple festival in the month of Dhanu (December-January). This special wedding ceremony, which has its roots in both Tamil and Malayali traditions, is a highly anticipated event in the temple's calendar. During this ritual, Tamil women and Malayali men participate in a symbolic marriage ceremony, honoring the divine union of Lord Sastha and the temple’s historical legends.
The Thrikalyanam ritual is steeped in a fascinating legend. According to the story, a man from Saurashtra who migrated to Tamil Nadu and presented a ceremonial cloth to the king of the region took his daughter along. They were attacked by troublemakers at Tenmala, and it was then that Shasta, disguised as a tribal man, saved them. Later, Shasta married the daughter, who is worshipped as Mampazhathara Bhagavathi.
This tale marks the origin of the Thrikalyanam ceremony, which symbolizes a marriage between the groom (Shasta) and the bride (Mampazhathara Bhagavathi). On this day, devotees eagerly seek the Mangalya Pett (ceremonial cloth) from the temple, as it is believed to bring good luck and ensure marriage for unmarried women who wear it. This makes the ritual especially significant for those hoping for a speedy marriage.
Rituals and Festivals
Apart from the Thrikalyanam, the temple celebrates other festivals and rituals, which blend both Malayali and Tamil traditions. One of the most significant festivals is held on the eighth day of the annual celebration, where the Thali (wedding necklace) is tied, marking the transition of the girl to the age of marriage. This festival has a unique participation of both Malayali and Tamil Brahmin relatives, making it a fascinating cross-cultural experience for devotees.
The temple’s association with both the Kerala and Tamil traditions showcases a rare blend of cultures, offering a truly unique spiritual experience.
Other Attractions in Aryankavu
Apart from the Aryankavu Dharma Sastha Temple, the region is home to several other attractions that are worth visiting.
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Palaruvi Waterfalls: One of the most famous waterfalls in Kerala, Palaruvi is located near Aryankavu and is known for its milky white waters. Standing at 91 meters, it is one of the largest waterfalls in India. The locals believe that the water has healing properties, and many visitors take a dip in the falls to cure ailments.
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Kadamanpara Sandalwood Forests: Located about 4 kilometers from Aryankavu, Kadamanpara is the second-largest natural sandalwood forest in India after Marayoor. The forest offers an aromatic experience and is known for its dense vegetation and biodiversity.
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13 Arch Bridge: A historical landmark in the region, this bridge is an excellent spot for photography and sightseeing, reflecting the region’s architectural heritage.
How to Reach Aryankavu
Reaching Aryankavu is relatively simple, thanks to its proximity to major towns and cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
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By Road: Aryankavu is easily accessible by road from Kollam (78 km), Punalur (36 km), and Tenkasi (21 km). Travelers can take the Kollam-Tenkasi National Highway to reach the temple and other attractions in the region.
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By Rail: The nearest railway station is under the Madurai Railway Division, and visitors can take a train to nearby stations before using local transport to reach Aryankavu.
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By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, located around 85 kilometers from Aryankavu. From there, visitors can travel by taxi or bus.
About the Author
Jose Luko Poikayil is a passionate writer, traveler, and the author behind Aryankavu Online. With deep roots in Aryankavu, Jose shares his knowledge of the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual significance through his blogs. His goal is to provide authentic travel tips and insights to fellow explorers.
In addition to Aryankavu Online, Jose also authors several other blogs, including:
- Tourist Destinations 4 U: A guide to top tourist spots across India with recommendations for homestays, hotels, travel tips, and food guides.
- Healthy Roots & Habits: Offering advice on natural living, home remedies, and Ayurvedic solutions.
- Jose Aryankavu: A personal blog offering a glimpse into the life of the author.
Feel free to reach out to Jose for any inquiries or feedback at waytojose@gmail.com or poikayiljose@gmail.com. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!
Conclusion
Aryankavu is a destination that offers much more than its natural beauty. The Aryankavu Dharma Sastha Temple is not just a place of worship but a spiritual haven that offers an unforgettable experience, steeped in both cultural and historical significance. The temple’s unique rituals, such as Thrikalyanam, and its blend of Kerala and Tamil traditions, make it a fascinating place for anyone interested in exploring the spiritual and cultural diversity of the region.
With its lush landscapes, waterfalls, ancient temples, and rich history, Aryankavu is a must-visit destination for both nature lovers and those seeking a deeper connection to Kerala’s spiritual heritage. Whether you come for the serenity, the spiritual experiences, or the awe-inspiring beauty, Aryankavu offers an enriching and unforgettable journey.
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