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Pilgrimages In Kerala
The many pious and revered pilgrim centres of Kerala attract devotees from all over India, who observe severe austerities, to undertake the pilgrimage.
A favourite pilgrim of millions of devotees across the world, Sabarimala is cosidered to be one of the most important Hindu temples in India.
Aruvikkara
Aruvikkara is an important pilgrim centre located at a distance of 16 kms from Thiruvananthapuram. Flowing by is the Karamana River, on the banks of which, is the rock-shrine dedicated to 'Bhagvathi', the divine embodiment of Female power. There is a waterfall nearby.
The place is of a lot of tourist interest and the site of a mini dam, which supplies water to the state capital, is worth seeing. It is both a pilgrim centre and a picnic spot.
Bharananganam
Bharananganam is an important Christian Pilgrimage centre, located 5 kms east of Palai on the Kottayam - Erattupett Road.
Associated with Sister Alphonsa, the blessed saint of the Catholics, the mortal remains of the saint are preserved in a chapel next to the St. Mary's Church. She lived from 1916 AD to 1946 AD.
The day of 28th July, the death anniversary of the saint is observed with much solemnity. This 100-year-old church features an attractive grotto of Virgin Mary.
Aruvippuram
Aruvippuram is a pilgrim centre located in a picturesque location, 24 kms from Thiruvananthapuram. It is also a small but lovely picnic spot.
The place derives its name from a stream. A small temple dedicated to Lord Siva was built here by Sree Narayana Guru, the great Hindu reformer.
This holy shrine attracts a number of devotees during the 'Sivarathri' festival in March.
Sabarimala
Sabarimala is a renowned pilgrim centre atop the rugged hills of the Western Ghats. This holy shrine is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.
The sanctum sanctoram nestles 914 m above sea level, amidst the virgin forest wilderness of the Western Ghats. The Village of Sabarimala is named after Shabari who did severe penance in order to meet Rama who granted her wish for her devotion and faith during her penance.
The main pilgrimage is undertaken between November and January. Regardless of caste, creed, colour, they wear black dhotis and carry on their heads, bundles containing traditional offerings like coconut filled with ghee, camphor and rice.
HOW TO GO TO SABARIMALA
Transportation is available upto Pamba, from where one has to travel a distance of 5 kms on foot. Devotees undertake rigorous penance, ritualistic vows and fasts before they visit the temple.
