Palaruvi Waterfall
Palaruvi Waterfall, which translates to "River of Milk," is one of the most famous waterfalls in South India. Cascading from a height of 300 feet, this stunning waterfall is located 70 km from Kollam, along the Kollam-Sencottah NH 208 highway in Aryankavu. Surrounded by lush tropical forests and rolling hills, the beauty of the waterfall is captivating, especially during the monsoon season. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the shallow pool at the base of the falls. The ideal time to visit is between June and January. Aryankavu is well connected by rail, with trains stopping at Aryankavu, and buses running between Kollam and Sencottah.
Kollam Town
Kollam Railway Station is just 1 km from the town center (Chinnakkada) and serves as a major stop for express, superfast, and passenger trains. Trains to Aryankavu are readily available. Additionally, KSRTC operates Express, Fast Passenger, and Ordinary buses connecting Kollam to Aryankavu, as well as other cities like Trivandrum, Kottarakara, Punalur, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, and Kottayam. Buses and trains also operate from Tamil Nadu, including Sencottai, Tenkassi, Thirunelveli, Thuthukudy, and Madurai.
Aryankavu Ayyappa Temple
The Aryankavu Ayyappa Temple, also known as Aryankavu Shastha Temple, is located about 73 km east of Kollam and 31 km from Punalur. The temple is a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Sastha (Ayyappa). It is one of the five ancient Ayyappa temples and has an interesting architectural feature, being built 35 feet below the road level. The temple is known for its exquisite sculptures and mural paintings. The legend of Lord Ayyappa here is similar to that of Sabarimala, with the key difference being that Ayyappa in Aryankavu was brought up by the Pandi Raja of Madhura, rather than the Raja of Pandalam. Major festivals like Mandala Pooja and Thrikalyanam draw thousands of pilgrims, and the temple’s rituals follow Tamil traditions. Notably, women aged 10 to 50 are not allowed inside the temple. The temple complex also houses idols of Devi and Shiva, with Lord Ayyappa sitting at the center.
Kulathupuzha Ayyappa Temple
Another significant shrine nearby is the Kulathupuzha Ayyappa Temple, located near Thenmala in Kollam. This temple, dedicated to Lord Manikantan (child form of Lord Ayyappa), is set on the banks of the Kulathupuzha River. The temple is famous for its legend involving a Brahmin who discovered the presence of Lord Ayyappa in the form of a child. The deity in the temple is represented as a stone idol of Lord Ayyappa, with Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu also worshiped here. Kulathupuzha is situated on the Thiruvananthapuram - Shenkottai road and is 60 km from Thiruvananthapuram and 64 km from Kollam.
Also read: "Discover the serene beauty of Rosemala: a hidden eco-tourism haven and hill station with breathtaking attractions."RosemalaConclusion:
Aryankavu, with its rich blend of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and cultural heritage, stands as a captivating destination in Kollam District, Kerala. Whether you are drawn to the serene landscapes of Palaruvi Waterfall, the ancient Aryankavu Ayyappa Temple, or the lush forests surrounding the area, Aryankavu offers a unique experience that combines both tranquility and spirituality. The village's connection to the Western Ghats and its role as a pilgrimage center only add to its charm, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts, pilgrims, and travelers alike. A visit to Aryankavu promises not only a glimpse into the beauty of Kerala but also a deeper connection to the region's vibrant history and traditions.
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