Aranmula Temple

About 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. The temple premises is decorated beautifully and is thronged by thousands of devotees who come to offer prayers and cheer for those participating in the boat race.The temple is adorned beautifully, with the outer walls and four main towers facing in the four directions. The eastern tower is accessed through a flight of 18 steps. The Pampa River can be approached by descending 57 steps from the northern tower.

Aranmula temple is famous for its Aranmula “kannadi”, which is basically a mirror engulfed by some exquisite metal works. “Kannadi” is Malayalam for mirror and this kind of mirror work is found exclusively in Aranmula and nowhere in the world. If you happen to visit Aranmula, buy these beautiful mirrors that are available in all shapes and sizes.

The Viswaroopa (Universal size figure) of Vishnu shown to Arjuna at the time of Kurukshethra war after giving the famous ‘Geethopadesh’ (advice of Geetha) is the style of deity Parthasarathy in this temple. It is believed this temple was installed by Arjuna at Nilakkal Narayanapuram and later brought here by tieing six bamboo sticks and this the name came Aranmula (Aran-with six, Mula-bamboo sticks) Among the 108 Thirupathy temples ‘Thiruvaranmulai’ is one with 4 gates on the sacred Pamba river side at Aranmulai Panchayath in Pathanamthitta District. The shrine is round in shape facing east with deity of Parthasarathy having six feet height. Daily five poojas and three thanthriks, Paramboor, Tharayil Kuzhikattu and Thekkedath Kuzhikattu. Sub daities are Sastha, Yakshi, Nagaraja (Snake king) and Erangavil Bhagavathy Balarama also is there in lower shrine. 10 days festival as Thiruvonam Arattu (Holy bathing) during, Month Makaram. Famous Uthrattathi Boat festival is conducted here. Another, famous product is ‘Aranmula Mirror’ was formed from this temple. The king wished to offer a crown with a rare metal which was not available anywhere and this found a rare combination of copper led and some other sacred mixtures. The golden dress offered to Ayyappa of Sabarimala by Travancore king is always kept in this temple. Now ruled by Travancore Devaswom Board. This temple is also famous for it’s fine murals. On the last day of Onam festival the famed Aranmula boat race is held.

This temple is also associated with Aranmula Uthrittathi, the main festival. It is conducted as the anniversary of the installation of the temple idol. During this festival, which falls on the last day of Onam celebrations, the snake boat race is conducted.

History

The Story is that Pandava princes, after crowning Parikshit left on a pilgrimage of India, and in Kerala, each of these brothers installed Vishnu on the banks of the Pampa and nearby places and offered worship. (Chengannur – Yuddhishtra, Tiruppuliyur – Bheema, Aranmula – Arjuna, Tiruvamundur – Nakula and Tirukkadittaanam – Sahadeva). It is said that Arjuna built this temple at Nilackal near Sabarimalai. And the image was brought here in a raft made of six pieces of bamboo to this site, and hence the name Aranmula (six pieces of bamboo).This temple, to expiate for the sin of having killed Karna on the battlefield, against the dharma of killing an unarmed enemy. It is also believed that Vishnu (here) revealed the knowledge of creation to Brahma from whom the Madhukaitapa demons stole the Vedas.

There is yet another Histroy associated with Parthasarathy here. On the ninth dayof the battle of Kurukshetra, the Kauravas reigned supreme under the leadership of Bheeshma, when Krishna motivated Arjuna to take initative and vanquish his foe. Upon his hesitating to do so, Krishna jumped down in rage, and took up his discus; seeing this sight Bheeshma surrendered to him and Arjuna beseeched him not to kill Bheeshma, as it would bave been against Krishna’s vow to take up arms in his battle. It is believed that it is this image of Krishna that is enshrined here, with a discuss.

Interesting things to Visit

Pandalam:

This is a township in Pathanamthitta District. It is one among the fastest growing towns in Kerala, India. It is considered as a holy town. Pandalam is also a well known educational and health care centre in central Travancore.Pandalam hosts a lot of educational institutions ranging from reputed schools to Post Graduate, Training, Ayurveda, Medical and Engineering Colleges.

Pampa Maha Ganapathi Temple:

The Mahaganapathi Temple at Pampa 8 Kms from Sabarimala, has an important roll in the Sabarimala pilgrimage as it is the main halting point. The temple is reached by climbing about 102 steps. Breaking of coconuts is the main offering here. Neelimala, Appachimedu, Sabareepeedam, Saramkuthi are the other holy places enroute.

Pandalam Valiyakoyickal Temple:

Located 15 kms away from Pathanamthitta on the banks of Achankovil river, is the Valiyakoyickal Temple of Sri Dharma Sastha. Believed to be constructed by the Raja of Pandalam, this Ayyappa shrine has been modeled on the Sabarimala temple. Pilgrims usually stop here to worship before proceeding to Sabarimala. One of the major events associated with the ‘Makaravilaku’ festival is the procession carrying the ‘Thiruvabharanam’ (sacred ornaments) of Lord Ayyappa from the Valiyakoyical temple to Sabarimala. This is performed three days prior to makaravilakku.

Vinjana Culture Centre :

The dance dramas of the Kerala performed in traditional costumes, are a major attraction here. These dances are integral to visitor experience.

Kathakali Dance Dramas :

It exhibits energy in its five forms - Earth, Fire, Water, Wind and Space or Air.

Thiruvamundur Temple:

This is dedicated to Lord Krishna and attributed to Nakul, one of the five pandava brothers.

Parumala Church:

It is here that Mar Gregories Metropolitan the declared saint of Malankara Orthodox Church take his eternal rest . The ormapperunnal celebrated on the first and second of every November

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.

Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls:

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.

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 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. After 1972, elephant hunting was stopped since the central government put an end to this crude old method of elephant catching and training.

Sabarimala Temple:

A well-known pilgrim center of Kerala, Sabarimala lies 191 kms away from Thiruvananthapuram and 210 kms away from Cochin. The holy shrine dedicated to Lord Ayyappa is situated 914 meters above sea level amidst dense forests in the rugged terrains of the Western Ghats. Lord Ayyappa is looked upon as the guardian of mountains and there are several shrines dedicated to Him all along the Western Ghats.

Parumala:

Mar Gregorios Metropolitan, a Saint of Malankara Orthodox Church is burried here. This is also a famous Christian pilgrim centre . The orma perunnal (Remembrance Day) is celebrated during November every year.

Nearest Petrol Pump

Eraviperoor Petrol pump
Pathanamthitta, Kerala.

Petrol Pump
Kozhencherry
Pathanamthitta, Kerala.

Sri Krishna Fuels
Pathanamthitta, Kerala.

HP Petrol Pump
Adoor, Pathanamthitta
Kerala.

Petrol Pump
Mylapra, Pathanamthitta, Kerala.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

Hotel Amala
Pathanamthitta,
Kerala

Park Hotel
Kozhencheri, Pathanamthitta
Kerala.

Hotel Lals Residency
Puimoodu junction NH 220, Adoor
Pathanamthitta, Kerala.

Hotel Italia
Adoor, Pathanamthitta, Kerala.

Help Line/Phone Number

Police Station:

Police station
Pandalam, Pathanamthitta, Kerala

Police Station
Pathanamthitta, Kerala.

Nearest Hospital:

Changethu Bhaskaran Nair Memorial Hospital
Pathanamthitta, Kerala.

BODHI HOMOEOPATHY
ABAN TOWER, ABAN JUNCTION, PATHANAMTHITTA,
Kerala 689645 - Tel:09447364380

Muthoot Medical Centre
Pathanamthitta, Kerala.

Poyyanil Hospital
Kozhencherry, Pathanamthitta, Kerala.

Government Hospital
Elanthur, Elanthoor
Pathanamthitta, Kerala.

Link:

http://krishnanz.blogspot.com/2009/09/aranmula-parthasarathi-temple.html
http://beautysceneries.blogspot.com/2009/09/aranmula-temple-at-kerala-aranmula.html
http://southindiaexpeditions.blogspot.com/2009/09/aranmula.html
http://keralatourismblogs.blogspot.com/2009/06/aranmula-temple.html
http://lifeinindiaat.blogspot.com/2009/09/aranmula-boat-palliyodam.html

Location info

• **Address:**Chengannur, Pathanamthitta district, Kerala, India

• District: Pathanamthitta district

• **Nearest City:**Trivandrum,Vachoochira,Adoor,Ernakulam,Mallapally,Kozhencherry,Erumeli

• **Best time to visit:**March to August.

Climate & weather

The climate is tropical and humid, And the Weather temparature ranges from Summers: 36°-20°; Winters: 16°-32°C.

Things to do at Aranmula Temple

You can see the other three temples of lord Shree Krishna besides this temple and watch the Arunamala Snake boat race.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Kerala. 4G is reliable in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, and along the coastal belt. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain backwater stretches. Most hotels, houseboats, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Kerala’s towns and cities offer diverse food ranging from traditional Kerala sadhya to multi-cuisine restaurants. Kochi has a thriving food scene with influences from Arab, Portuguese, and Jewish traders. Temple festivals feature traditional Kerala vegetarian feasts.

Accessibility

Religious sites may have steps at the entrance and may not have ramps. The interiors are generally level once inside. Some historic sites have uneven stone floors. Visitors with mobility concerns should check in advance.

Rules & restrictions

Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered (scarves or shawls are often available at the entrance). Photography is generally permitted without flash, but video may be restricted. Maintain silence inside. Mobile phones should be on silent mode. Remove shoes if required (indicated by signage). Do not touch artefacts or altars. These are active places of worship — respect services, festivals, and devotees.

Best photography spots

Kerala has some of India’s finest church architecture. The Santa Cruz Basilica in Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church (India’s oldest European church, where Vasco da Gama was first buried), and the numerous Syrian Christian churches across the backwaters feature distinctive Kerala-style facades mingling European and local design. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light.

Best time to visit Aranmula Temple

The best time to visit Aranmula Temple is from November to February when the weather is pleasant for temple visits and festival participation. Major temple festivals occur between December and May. The monsoon months bring heavy rain which can disrupt travel plans.

Timings & opening hours

Most temples in Kerala open early morning around 4:00 AM–5:00 AM for the first pooja and close by 11:00 AM–12:00 PM. They reopen in the evening from 5:00 PM–6:00 PM and remain open until 8:00 PM–8:30 PM for the final pooja. Specific timings vary by temple and may be reduced during restricted days.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry to most temples in Kerala is free. Special darshan tickets, if available, may cost between INR 50–200. Camera fees may apply: INR 20–50 for still cameras, INR 100–200 for video cameras. Some major temples (Sabarimala, Guruvayoor) may have specific queue ticket systems.

Duration needed

30 minutes to 1 hour. During festival seasons, plan for 2–3 hours to witness ceremonies and processions. Major temple complexes with museum sections require 1.5–2 hours.

Safety tips

Follow temple dress codes (shoulders and knees covered). Remove footwear before entering the inner sanctum. Respect temple customs — do not touch idols or offerings. Photography may be restricted. Beware of pickpockets in crowded temple areas during festivals. Keep your belongings secure.

Things to carry

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees (required for entry), a shawl or scarf for additional coverage, an umbrella for sun/rain, small change for offerings (INR 10–50), a phone or camera (check permissions), and a notebook if visiting historically significant temples. Remove footwear before entering — carry socks if you prefer not to walk barefoot.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV) (approximately 40 km). Nearest Railway Station: Chengannur Railway Station. The destination is well-connected by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses and private taxis from major towns.

Frequently asked questions

What is the dress code for Kerala temples? — Men should remove shirts and wear a mundu (traditional wrap) or dhoti. Women should wear sarees or salwar kameez covering shoulders and knees. Some major temples provide rental clothing. Shorts, trousers (for inner sanctum entry in some temples), and sleeveless tops are generally not allowed. Can non-Hindus enter the temple? — Many Kerala temples allow entry to visitors of all faiths. Some of the most famous temples (like Guruvayoor and Sabarimala) have specific entry restrictions — check in advance. Most temples welcome visitors regardless of faith. Is photography allowed inside? — Photography inside the inner sanctum is generally prohibited. Photography of the temple exterior and architecture is usually permitted. Some temples charge a camera fee. What are temple timings? — Most temples open early morning (4:00 AM–5:00 AM) for the first pooja, close around 11:00 AM–12:00 PM, reopen at 5:00 PM–6:00 PM, and close after the final pooja at 8:00 PM–8:30 PM.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Kerala
• Category: Temples

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.