Aryankavu, located at the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, is a beautiful and serene destination in Kollam district of Kerala. Known for its natural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual importance, Aryankavu attracts tourists who seek a mix of nature, history, and spirituality. The area is home to lush forests, majestic waterfalls like Palaruvi, sandalwood forests, and significant temples such as the Aryankavu Dharma Sastha Temple.
In this article, we'll cover how to reach Aryankavu from both Kerala and Tamil Nadu, along with some of the key attractions in and around the area.
How to Reach Aryankavu from Kerala
1. By Road from Thiruvananthapuram:
Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is approximately 75 km away from Aryankavu. The most convenient way to reach Aryankavu from Thiruvananthapuram is by road.
- Route: Take the Thiruvananthapuram - Thenmala - Chenkotta Highway (National Highway 66 and 744). This road passes through scenic views and hill stations, making the journey not only comfortable but also visually rewarding.
- Time Taken: Approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
- Transport Options: You can hire a taxi, take a bus from Thiruvananthapuram, or use private vehicles.
2. By Road from Kollam:
Kollam is another major city in Kerala, about 78 km from Aryankavu. The road from Kollam to Aryankavu offers beautiful views of the Western Ghats.
- Route: Travel via National Highway 744.
- Time Taken: Approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
- Transport Options: You can use taxis, buses, or even personal vehicles for the journey.
3. By Train from Kollam:
If you're traveling from Kollam, the Kollam – Chengottai Railway Line connects Aryankavu with the rest of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The nearest railway station to Aryankavu is Aryankavu Railway Station, located just a few kilometers from the temple and the main attractions.
- Time Taken: Around 2 to 3.5 hours, depending on the train and route.
- Train Services: Trains that run on this line will take you to the nearby station, from where you can hire a local taxi or take a bus.
How to Reach Aryankavu from Tamil Nadu
1. By Road from Madurai:
Madurai, one of the major cities in Tamil Nadu, is about 150 km from Aryankavu. The road journey from Madurai to Aryankavu is relatively straightforward and scenic, as you travel through Tamil Nadu's southern regions and the Western Ghats.
- Route: From Madurai, take National Highway 38 and head toward Tenkasi, and from there, continue on the Kollam-Chengottai Road to reach Aryankavu.
- Time Taken: Around 4 to 6 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
- Transport Options: You can travel by private taxi, hire a rental car, or take a Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) bus.
2. By Road from Tenkasi:
Tenkasi, a town located close to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, is one of the closest points to Aryankavu. Tenkasi is about 20 km from Aryankavu.
- Route: Travel from Tenkasi to Aryankavu via Kollam-Chengottai Road.
- Time Taken: Around 1 to 2 hours.
- Transport Options: You can take a private taxi or bus from Tenkasi to reach Aryankavu.
3. By Train from Madurai:
Madurai is well-connected by train to Aryankavu. From Madurai, you can board trains that go to the Kollam or Tenkasi stations, both of which are close to Aryankavu.
- Nearest Railway Station: The Kollam Railway Station is the most convenient, from where you can take a taxi to Aryankavu (about 3 to 4.5 hours).
- Train Services: There are trains from Madurai to Kollam or Tenkasi which connect to Aryankavu through the Kollam - Chengottai Railway Line.
Attractions in Aryankavu and Nearby Places
Once you reach Aryankavu, you’ll be greeted with an array of natural and spiritual attractions that make the place unique.
1. Aryankavu Dharma Sastha Temple:
One of the main attractions in Aryankavu is the Aryankavu Dharma Sastha Temple, a significant spiritual site. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and is believed to have been consecrated by the sage Parashurama. It is located on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border and is one of the five Dharma Sastha temples established by Parashurama. The temple is known for its ritual of Thrikalyanam, a unique wedding ceremony, and the daily poojas performed seven times a day. This temple is a blend of both Kerala and Tamil traditions and is a must-visit for those seeking spiritual solace.
2. Palaruvi Waterfalls:
Located about 8 km from Aryankavu, the Palaruvi Waterfalls is one of the largest waterfalls in Kerala. The name "Palaruvi," meaning "milk stream," is derived from the waterfall's milky white appearance. The stunning 91-meter-high falls are surrounded by lush green landscapes and are known for their therapeutic properties. Visitors often come here for a refreshing dip, believing that the water has healing powers.
3. Kadamanappara Sandalwood Forest:
The Kadamanappara Sandalwood Forest, located about 4 km from Aryankavu, is the second largest natural sandalwood forest after Marayoor in Kerala. This serene and fragrant forest area is an excellent place for nature lovers and those interested in eco-tourism. The forest is home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for trekking and photography.
4. 13 Arch Bridge:
Located near the Aryankavu junction, the 13 Arch Bridge is an iconic structure built during the colonial era. The bridge’s architectural beauty and the surrounding views make it a popular spot for photography. The bridge offers stunning views of the lush forests and hills surrounding the region.
5. Rosmala:
The Rosmala area is famous for its scenic beauty, surrounded by lush forests and hills. It is a great spot for nature walks and picnics, and its tranquil environment makes it a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
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
Reaching Aryankavu is quite easy from both Kerala and Tamil Nadu, whether by road or rail. The beautiful landscapes, historical temples, and natural attractions make Aryankavu a perfect destination for nature lovers, spiritual seekers, and adventure enthusiasts. From the Aryankavu Dharma Sastha Temple to the majestic Palaruvi Waterfalls and serene Kadamanappara Sandalwood Forest, there’s much to explore in this enchanting part of Kerala. Plan your visit to Aryankavu today for a memorable and enriching experience!
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