About:

Pamba river is one of the longest rivers in the state of Kerala, India, stretching over 176 km. It is often referred to as the "Dakshina Ganga" or the Southern Ganges due to its cultural and religious significance. Sabarimala temple dedicated to lord Ayyappa is located on the river pamba.River Pamba is considered as the Dakshin Ganga due to its association with Kerala's Largest Pilgrim Centre - Sabarimala.District Pamba originates at Pulachimalai hill in the Peerumedu plateau in the Western Ghats at an altitude of 1650 metres and flows through Ranni, Pathanamthitta, Thiruvalla, Chengannur, Kuttanad and Ambalappuzha Taluks and finally empties into the Vembanad Lake.A famous Anjana temple is situated near this bank.

Pamba is the most important and holy spot on the way to Sannidhanam. It is here that Lord Ayyappa was found by King Rajasekara.The Pamba river is as holy as the river Ganges. The Pamba water purifies one from curse and evil. The devotees take their holy bath at the confluence of the three rivers(Triveni ). This is created by the Lord as parallel to the Ganges ( "Dakshina Ganga" ).Perunthenaruvi Waterfall which is 36 km from Pathanamthitta on the banks of the Pamba river is a favourite picnic spot for both domestic and foreign tourists.Ablution in River Pamba is considered as holy 'Ganga Snanam'.ince at Pamba three rivers merge to produce one single river, it is regarded as a sacred spot by the tourists and the Indians as well.

Location Info:

Address: Pulachimalai, Peerumedu Plateau, Idukki District, Kerala, India
District: Pathanamthitta District, Idukki District
Nearest City: Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, and Thiruvalla
Best time to visit: November to February

Climate/Weather:

Summer: March to May, temperatures range between 25°C and 35°C, with hot and humid weather.
Monsoon: June to October, heavy rainfall with cooler temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C.
Winter: November to February, mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C.

History:

The Pamba River has a rich historical and cultural significance in Kerala, especially in relation to the Sabarimala Temple. Devotees consider the river holy and take a dip before proceeding to the temple for worship. The river has been revered since ancient times and is often called the "Dakshina Ganga" due to its religious importance. Its waters have supported agriculture and settlement in the region for centuries.
It also played a key role in the development of the local economy, facilitating transportation and trade along its banks.

Interesting Things to Do:

Sabarimala Pilgrimage: Take part in the famous pilgrimage to Sabarimala Temple, located near the river, where millions of devotees visit every year.
Boat Rides: Enjoy scenic boat rides along the Pamba River, exploring the lush green surroundings and serene backwaters.
Aranmula Snake Boat Race: Witness the traditional Aranmula Snake Boat Race, an exhilarating event held annually during the Onam festival.
Trekking: Explore the nearby hills and forests, offering great trekking trails for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Bird Watching: Spot a variety of migratory and local bird species around the riverbanks and forest areas, making it a popular birdwatching destination.

Interesting Places to Visit:

Sabarimala Temple: A famous pilgrimage site located near the Pamba River, attracting millions of devotees each year.
Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple: An ancient temple known for its cultural significance and the annual Aranmula Snake Boat Race.
Vembanad Lake: The largest lake in Kerala, where the Pamba River meets, offering stunning backwater views and houseboat experiences.
Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls: A picturesque waterfall near Pamba, popular for its scenic beauty and peaceful ambiance.
Konni Elephant Reserve: A renowned elephant training center, offering opportunities for visitors to learn about Kerala's elephant culture.

Mobile Range Info:

Network Availability: Mobile networks such as BSNL, Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone have good coverage along most parts of the Pamba River region, especially near major tourist spots like Sabarimala.
Data Connectivity: 4G services are generally available in most areas, although some remote forested areas may have weak or intermittent connectivity.
Emergency Services: In case of emergencies, mobile networks are available in towns and villages near the river, but satellite phones or local assistance might be required in very remote locations.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, located about 105 km from Pamba. Trivandrum International Airport is also an option, around 160 km away.
By Rail: The closest railway station is Chengannur, approximately 25 km from Pamba. Regular trains connect Chengannur with major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Bangalore.
By Road: Pamba is well-connected by road, with regular Kerala State Transport buses running from major towns like Kottayam, Trivandrum, and Pathanamthitta. Private taxis and buses are also available for direct travel to Pamba.
By Boat: Visitors can also enjoy boat rides along the Pamba River from Aranmula to reach certain pilgrimage spots, enhancing the travel experience.

Nearest Visiting places:

Cherukolpuzha:

Ayiroor Cherukolpuzha religious convention of the Hindus is held at Cherukole on the banks of River Pamba, usually in Feb every year. This famous convention is attended by a large number of people and addressed by prominent religious scholars and cultural personalities.

Malikapurathamma Temple:

Malikappurathamma Devi temple alias Malikapuram Temple is situated on a small hill just 100 meters away from Sabarimala. According to legend, Malikapuram temple is the place where the demon Mahishi rests in eternal wait. The temple complex houses the shrines of the Devi and Kaduthaswamy and also the the shrines of the snake god, Nagaraja and goddess, Nagayakshi. Here coconuts are offered only after rolling them on the ground.

Niranam:

The powerful ancient church situated at Niranam, dates back to 52AD. This monument is believed to have been erected by Apostle St.Thomas and is considered the oldest Christian church.

Konni (Elephant Training Center):

The hilly area of Konni, located just 11 km from Pathanamthitta, is the gate-way to the forest bordering the district. Surrounded by acres of thick forest, it is an adventurous tourist spot where one can go for thrilling elephant safaris and trekking. Konni has the largest number of wild elephants in the state and is a major elephant training center. In the past, wild elephants caught from the forests were brought here and put in wooden cages known as 'anakoodu' (Elephant Cage) till they were properly trained.

Aranmula Boat Race:

The stretch of river Pamba at aranmula is the venue of the famous snake boat race. It is more a pageantry than a race. The snake boat is of an exrtra ordinary shape with a length of about 100ft. The rear portion towering to a height of about 20ft. and the front portion tapering gradually. The boat resembles a snake with its hood raised. the race is held on the last day of the week long Onam festival to commemorate the crossing of the river by Lord Krishna.

Parumala:

Mar Gregorios Metropolitan, a Saint of Malankara Orthodox Church is burried here. This is also a famous Christian pilgrim centre .

Pandalam:

Pandalam is perhaps second only to Sabarimala, in sanctity and significance. Lord Ayyappa, the presiding diety of Sabarimala had his human sojourn as the son of Raja of Pandalam. It is believed that Raja constructed a temple close to his palace on the banks of river Achankoil modeled on the Sbarimala shrine which is the present Valiya Koickal temple. Pilgrims usually wiorship here before proceding to Sabarimala. Three days prior to Makaravilakku, the chest containing Thiruvabharanam (the sacred ornaments of Lord Ayyappa kept here) is taken in a procession from Pandalam to Sabarimala.

Konni (Elephant Training Center):

The hilly area of Konn is located just 11 km from Pathanamthitta, is the gate-way to the forest bordering the district. Surrounded by acres of thick forest, it is an adventurous tourist spot where one can go for thrilling elephant safaris and trekking. Konni has the largest number of wild elephants in the state and is a major elephant training center. In the past, wild elephants caught from the forests were brought here and put in wooden cages known as 'anakoodu' (Elephant Cage) till they were properly trained.

Mannadi:

This place is located 13 km from Adoor , Mannadi is the place where the renowned freedom fighter of Travancore, Veluthampi Dalawa spent his last days. He became a martyr on march 29, 1809. The Govt. of Kerala acquired 1 acre and 27 cents of land here, and built a monument in memory of Veluthampi Dalawa.

Vijana Kala Vedi Cultural Centre:

Louba Schild, a French scholar under the Indo-French Cultural Exchange Programme, who started this centre with UNESCO support, founded this famous cultural centre. Those interested in culture and art, gather from different parts of the country over here. The centre offers residential training courses, in Kerala's traditional arts & crafts like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Bharatanatyam, Kalaripayattu, Music, wood carving etc.

Kaviyoor:

The Kaviyoor Mahadeva temple which was constructed in the early years of the 10th century is one of the oldest of the Mahadeva temples in Kerala. References are there in the Kaviyoor Shasanas of 950 A.D..But it is believed that he darusilpas seen around the temple belong to the 17th century.Thekekudi Cave Temple in Kaviyoor panchayat is one of the rare cave temples of Kara It is assumed that this temple is constructed in the Pallava architectural style and was built in the 8th century.

Omallor:

Omallor is known to outsides for the famous 'Rakthakantha swamy Temple' and the annual cattle fair known as Vayalvanibham, which is held on the Malayalam month of Meenam. Peoples from very distant places and even from outside the state participate in this fair. Omallore is five kms south of the District headquarters.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

Pathanamthitta Petrol Pump: Located approximately 10 km from Pamba in Pathanamthitta town, offering fuel and basic services.
Chengannur Petrol Pump: Around 25 km from Pamba, located near Chengannur town on the way to Pamba, ideal for those traveling by road.
Sabarimala Base Petrol Pump: Situated at the Sabarimala base camp, providing fuel for pilgrims and visitors to the area.
Ranni Petrol Pump: Located in Ranni, about 15 km from Pamba, serving travelers heading towards Sabarimala and nearby areas.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Sabarimala Devaswom Board Accommodation: Provides lodging facilities for pilgrims near the Sabarimala Temple and Pamba base camp.
Hotel Panchavady, Pathanamthitta: A comfortable hotel located around 10 km from Pamba, offering basic amenities for tourists and pilgrims.
Aranmula Heritage Home: A traditional stay near Aranmula, about 20 km from Pamba, offering cultural experiences and peaceful surroundings.
KTDC Tamarind, Konni: Situated around 30 km from Pamba, this government-run lodge provides budget accommodation with easy access to the Konni Forest.
Hotel River View, Chengannur: A convenient hotel located about 25 km from Pamba, ideal for those visiting both the river and nearby attractions.

Things to Carry:

Comfortable Footwear: Essential for walking and trekking, especially if visiting Sabarimala or exploring nearby forest areas.
Water Bottles: Carry sufficient water, as some areas might not have easy access to drinking water, especially during pilgrimages.
Weather-appropriate Clothing: Light clothes for summer, rain gear for monsoon, and warm layers for the winter months.
Medicines and First Aid: Carry basic first aid supplies and any necessary medications, especially if visiting remote areas with limited healthcare access.
Snacks and Energy Bars: For long treks or temple visits, carry energy-boosting snacks for convenience.
Identity Proof: Ensure you carry a valid ID, as it may be required for accommodation or during your pilgrimage.
Camera or Binoculars: Perfect for capturing the beautiful scenery or spotting wildlife during treks and boat rides.

Tips & Suggestions:

Plan Your Visit: If you're visiting during the Sabarimala pilgrimage season, be prepared for large crowds and book accommodation in advance.
Weather Preparedness: Check the weather forecast before your trip, especially during the monsoon season, and carry rain gear if needed.
Respect Local Customs: When visiting religious sites like Sabarimala, ensure to follow the dress code and respect the local customs and rituals.
Stay Hydrated: The trek to Sabarimala can be physically demanding, so keep yourself hydrated and take breaks when needed.
Avoid Plastic: The Pamba River region is eco-sensitive, so avoid using plastic and ensure to carry reusable water bottles and bags.
Local Transportation: Opt for local transport options like buses or shared taxis to reach remote areas, as roads might be narrow and crowded.
Medical Assistance: If you have medical conditions, consult your doctor before undertaking any treks or pilgrimages, and carry necessary medications.

Help Line/Phone Number:

Tourism Helpline: +91-471-2321132 (Kerala Tourism Department)
Sabarimala Temple Helpline: +91-468-2222820 (Sabarimala Devaswom Board)
Police Emergency: 100 (Local Police Assistance)
Medical Emergency: 108 (Ambulance Services)
Nearest Hospital: Pathanamthitta District Hospital, Contact: +91-468-2222245
Fire and Rescue: 101 (Fire Emergency)
Society/Community Phone Number:

Link:

https://www.keralatourism.org/pamba-river
https://www.indiatourismguide.com/pamba-river-tourism
https://www.environmentindia.org/pamba-river
https://www.ecowatchindia.com/pamba-river-pollution-plan

Photo Gallery

Video Gallery

Vijnana Kala Vedi Centre
Vijnana Kala Vedi Cultural Centre is located at Aranmula, Trivendrum District, Kerala. established in 1977, is one of the pioneering institutes that attempts at preserving the ancient Indian Culture. Inaugurated by a French artist, Louba Schild, the main objective of this organization is to impart aesthetic sense amongst the Indian populace.The concept of the artistic and cultural traditions that are followed in India, which is still more or less blurred or vague in the minds of most people, gets a concrete manifestation here. The spirit of India finds a vibrant expression in its traditional arts, crafts and performing arts.At the Centre, you can learn, for short or long term as you wish, two subjects, chosen from a list of 18 subjects ranging from Music, Dance, Theatre, Crafts, Languages like Sanskrit, Hindi and Malayalam to Yoga, Martial Art and even Cooking. Most of the lessons are one to one and hence you can make maximum use of your stay.....more
Parumala Church
Parumala church is situated at Mannar on the banks of river Pampa, Near Thiruvalla, Pathanamthitta District, Kerala.The first saint Mar Gregorious(famously known as Parumala Kochu Tirumeni) of Malankara Orthodox Church lived here. Now it is a famous pilgrime centre.The church is renowned as a centre of worship for all religious communities and as one of the main pilgrimage centers for Christians in Kerala. It contains the mortal remains of Mar Gregorios Metropolitan known as Parumala Thirumeni who was the first declared saint of the Malankara Orthodox Church. The annual commemorative feast (Ormapperunnal) celebrations at the Parumala Church is held on 1st and 2nd of November.....more
Achankoil River
The Achankovil River is known as Achankovilaru in vernacular, situated in Pathanamitta town.The river is also known as Kulallada River. This Indian River is formed when several small streams namely Rishimala River, Pasukidametttu River and the Ramakkalteri River meet together in eastern Kerala. It is a small river not more than 130 kilometers. It passes through Cheriyanad, Puliyoor and Chengannur villages, enters Mavelikkara Taluk at Chennithala, It then flows through Thriperumthura and Pallippad villages.The river ultimately joins the Pamba River at Veeyapuram, which is in the Alappuzha district of Kerela. On the banks of the Achankovil River, is the holy town of Pandalam, which is associated with Lord Ayyappa.....more
Aranmula Temple
Aranmula Temple, innorth side of chengannur, Pathanamthitta district, is famous as one of the five temple towns of Kerala. There are other temples besides Aranmula, which are devoted to Lord Krishna and are located at Trichambaram, Tiruvarppu and Ambalappuzha. Lord Parthasarathy is the presiding deity of the Aranmula temple. There are five ancient shrines around Chengannur, sanctified by the Pandavas. One of them is Aranmula pilgrimage of Kochi. It is said that this temple has existed since the time of Mahabharata. In Cochin, Aranmula temple comes alive during the time of Onam festival when snake boat races are held in this temple.....more
Kaviyoor Rock Cut Cave Temple
Kaviyoor Rock Cut CaveTemple(Mahadeva Temple) is a bout 5 km east of thiruvalla, pathanamthitta district, south Kerala, this is located on the banks of the river Manimala, Kaviyoor is famous for its temples. The Kaviyoor Trikkukkudi Cave Temple, also known as the Rock Cut Cave Temple, is of historical importance and is preserved as a monument by the Archaeological Department.It bears close resemblance to the Pallava style of architecture and has prompted historians to date it to a period as early as the eighth century AD. The temple is more than thousand years old.But the actual time of construction is not known,like any other old temples. Certainly, this temple belongs to the oldest period of strucural temples.....more
Sabarimala Temple
Sabarimala temple is located on the top of the hills of the Western Ghats. The holy shrine in Sabarimala is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. Thousands of devotees visit Sabarimala during the months of November-January when the main festival takes place.The devotees who visit the temple during the festival walk barefoot through the uneven road to reach the temple. Before taking the trip the devotees fast and surrender themselves to the will of God for 40 days. They do not drink or smoke, eat selected food, sleep on the floor and stay away from women and family during this period. Irrespective of caste and creed they wear black dhotis and carry offerings like coconut filled with ghee, camphor and rice.....more
Perumthenaruvi Waterfall
The Perunthenaruvi Waterfall from Pathanamthitta via Vachoochira on the banks of the Pamba River about 10 km from Erumely, Perunthenaruvi is about 36 km from Pathanamthittais a natural fall down a rocky path into a ravine about 100 feet deep. Ideal for an outing, this place is a popular picnic spot. Perumthenaruvi which literally means honey river, is a picturesque tourist spot situated in Erumely, It is a favourite picnic spot among the tourists, with an awesome view of water cascading from a rocky path at a height of 60 to 100 ft. Perhaps, the collection of beehives found near the river side, might have incited the ancestors to name the river as Perunthenaruvi.This fall is a much sought after spot for both domestic and foreign tourists.....more