Pathanamthitta is a combination of two words Pathanam and Thitta, which mean an array of houses on the riverside. Formed on Ist November 1982, for the purpose of hastening the development process, it now includes portions of the erstwhile Kollam, Alappuzha and Idukki districts as well.
Although Pathanamthitta is the youngest among the districts of Kerala, its rich cultural legacy of various art and cultural traditions belies its recent formation.
It is widely popular for its effervescent fairs, festivals and enriching cultural centers which attract hordes of tourists from India and abroad.
Other Facilities :
The district has a number of pilgrimages of importance to Hindus, Muslims, Jains and Christians. The district's numerous churches, temples and mosques built in close proximity to each other have earned it the prestigious laurel of 'Headquarters of Pilgrimage Tourism', of the State.
The various pilgrim spots and cultural centers that are 'A Must See' when in Pathanamthitta are: