Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta is the head quarters of Pathanamthitta district. The district was formed on 1st November 1982. It was carved out of Idukki, Alappuzha and Kollam districts. The district is close to the Western Ghats and is endowed with scenic landscape comprising of low undulating hills, extensive stretches of lush forests, rivers and charming countryside. It is also known for exuberant fairs and festivals. Pathanamthitta district is known as the 'Headquarters of Pilgrimage Tourism', of the State.

Pathanamthitta has an important place in erstwhile Travancore state the biggest taluk in the old Travancore state was Pathanamthitta and the revenue collection from this taluk played a prominent role in filling the coffers of the state. The district headquarters is noted for communal and cultural harmony. There are numerous churches, temples and mosques built in close proximity. The Chandanakudam festival at the mosque in the centre of the town is quite famous. Situated near the Western Ghats and bordered by the hills, Pathanamthitta district is a treat to eyes with its vast unending stretches of forests, rivers and rural landscapes. Blessed by nature, the district is famous for its scenic beauty, fairs and festivals.

Places to Visit

Pathanamthitta is the head quarters of Pathanamthitta district. Even before getting this status Pathanamthitta had an important place in erstwhile Travancore state. The biggest taluk in the old Travancore state was Pathanamthitta and the revenue collection from this taluk played a prominent role in filling the coffers of the state. Pathanamthitta has more than five High Schools and a first grade college. There are a number of churches, Mosques and temples and the people live in harmony.

Aranmula possesses all the attributes of rural Kerala. The local craftsmen engage in traditional crafts such as Arunmula metal Kannadi (mirror), the mural paintings and construction of boats for water fiestas. The local dance centre exhibits old Kathakali dance dramas performed in traditional costumes.

Charalkunnu is a picturesque hill station from where one can have a panoramic view of the low lying areas including river Pamba.

Kakki reservoir, set in sylvan background, is a 'tourists' delight. The splendid artificial lake offers exhilarating boating experience. The surrounding forest abounds in tigers, elephants, deers and monkey.

Konni is an important junction on the Kottayam-Punalur route. It is about 11 km from the district headquarters. It is an important center for cash crops like rubber, pepper, coffee and ginger which form the backbone of the agricultural economy of the state. Konni is also known for its elephant rides and the 'Anakoodu' where elephants are tamed and trained for work. Konni is the gateway to the forest bordering the district.

Pathanamthitta to Konni - 11 km

Veluthampi Dalawa, the great patriot, fought against British imperialism and became a martyr on March 29, 1809 at Mannadi. The monument of his martyrdom at Mannadi in Adoor taluk is of great historical importance.

Adoor to Niranam - 7 km

Muloor S.Padmanabha Panicker (1869-1931) who was one of the veteran poets and an important social reformer of the century, was born at Elavumthitta 12 km away from Pathanamthitta. His home at Elavumthitta is preserved as his monument by the Department of Culture of the State Government.

The waterfalls at perunthenaruvi near Pampa attracts thousands of people from inside and outside the district. This beautiful natural waterfall is an ideal place of tourist attraction for both domestic and foreign tourists. It is only 10 km from Erumely.

How to reach

By Road : Pathanamthitta town, the district headquarters, is well connected by road to Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam and Kochi. Kottayam is 56 km away. KSRTC Enquiry no. 2322366.

By Rail : Thiruvalla is the nearest railway station.

By Air: The nearest airport is at Kochi 146 km away.