A hilly Territory of pristine beaty, Pathanamthitta is popular as the headquarters of pilgrim worship in Kerala. Three rivers course through its rich terrains comprising natural divisions of the lowlands, the midlands and the highlands. Dotted with temples, rivers, mountain ranges and cocnut groves, more than fifty percent of the total area of this region is covered by forests. Hailed as heritage village, it attracts visitors cfrom India and abroad for its spectacular water fiestas religious shrines and cultural training centres. Pathanamthitta is also home to the unique AranmulaKannadi – metal mirrors that are painstakingly handicrafted and the VasthuVidyaGurukulam, a heritage Village which practices the ancient Indian School of architecture, VaasthuVidyain in its purest form.
Aranmula Heritage Village
Aranmula (13km, from pathanamthitta) The unique heritage Village of the Aranmula gets its name from the centuries old SreeParthasarathy Temple. Chegannur 10 km. away is the nearest railway station.
AranmulaParthasarathy Temple
Dedicated to Sree Krishna, this temple on the banks of the holy River Pamba, attracts large crowds of devotees. it is said that the idol was ought here in a raft made with aru(six) pieces of mula(bamboo) which gave the twon its name, Aranmula.
Aranmula Boat Race
This farmed water fiesta is held on the last day of the week-long Onam festival (Aug/Sept) to
commemorate the consecration of the idol at the Parthasarathy Temple, 700 Years ago. One of the most Popular boat races in Kerala, special boats called palliyodamsassemble near the temple presenting an enchanting spectale. Each boat is 100ft long and accomodates 4 helmsmen, 100 carsmen and 25 singers. 16th Sept. 08/06th Sept,’09.
AranmulaKannadi
Aranmula is synonymous with its very own metal mirrors, a unique craft alloy of copper and white lead is mixed in a particular ratio to make this non-refractive mirror, which is a closely guarded family secret.
Gavi
(40 km from kumily and 28 km from vandiperiyar) The two-hour jeep ride to this quiet have passes throgh tropical forest, sprawling grasslands and cardamon plantations. The Bamboo Grove in the middle of navachal in Gavi has eco-lodges and a centre for experiential learning. Trekking, bird watching and boating options are also made available. Forest Development Corporation provides tented accommodation and boating facilities.
Konni
(11 km. from Pathanamthitta) An agricultural region ,Konni is rich in cash crops like rubber, pepper, coffe,ginger etc. It is famous for its Aanakoodu or elephant training centre where you can feed, ride and interactwith the elephant. Built in 1941, this elephant sanctuary is one of the oldest in India.
Perunthenaruvi Falls
(36 km from Pathanamthitta via vachoochira) The PerunthennaruviWaterfall on the banks of the Pamba River about 10 kmfromErumely, is a natural fall down a rocky path into a ravine about 100 feet deep ideal for an outing, this place is a popular picinic spot.
Kakki Reservoir
Tigers, elephants, and monkeys can be sighted in the forest surrounding the reservoir. The magnificent artificial lake provides a lovely boating experience.