Sabarimala Temple Kerala

Introduction

The ancient land came into being with the strike the axe of the legendary mythological figure Rishi Parashuram, is Kerala- God's own country. With the Arabian Sea on the west and the Western Ghats on its east, Kerala is a treasure trove of indigenous cultural practices and art forms that have mesmerized people all over the world. Be it the age old Kathakali or the newly rediscovered Mohiniattyam or the knowledge of Ayurveda . Basking in the generosity of the sun and rain Kerala is home to a host of centuries old temples dedicated to Hindu deities flocked by millions of pilgrims every year.

Sabarimala Temple Architecture

The temples of Kerala, known for their ingenious architecture and simplicity are frequently visited by tourists. The most famous and most often frequented Sastha pilgrimage, the Sabarimala temple is dedicated to the Lord Ayyappa and is open to all religions. Notably women above ten years and below fifty years of age are forbidden to enter the Sabarimala temple.

The Sabarimala Temple is said to have been laid after Lord Ayyappa's wishes on a courtyard and is characterized by pyramidal roofs. A flight of 18 stairs called the Holy Stairs lead to the main temple. The guards of Lord Ayyappa, Vavur and Kadutha sit at the foot of the stairs guarding his shrine. To the south-west of the main temple stands the shrine of Lord Ganapati, known as Kannimula Ganapati . Bhasma Kulam, the temple tank where devotees take a dip is situated within the temple premises. The Homakunda now located below the temple was placed in front of the shrine and a holy fire said to purge one of his sins used to burn there always.