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Kerala Sri Dharma Sastha Temple
The Ayyappa or Sri Dharma Sastha of Aryankavu is one of the few temples where millions of devotees come from everywhere to worship Lord Ayyappa. It is located in the Kollam district of the state of Kerala. It is surrounded by forests and is situated on the Tenkasi National Highway. The temple is being built some 35 feets below the road level and has some fine paintings which attract tourists and art lovers from all over the world.
History
The centre of attraction at Aryankavu is this temple. It worships Lord Sastha and is one of the most ancient Ayyappan Temples. Lord Sastha is believed to be brought up by the Pandi Raja of Madhura in the ancient times. Lord Sastha is quite renowned and well worshipped by the people of the area.
Significance
Here the deity is in the form of Tiru Aryan, the teenager form of Lord Ayyappa. The rituals followed here are mainly of Tamilian origin. The temple houses figures of Devi, Shiva and Sastha. The young Ayyappa is in the middle besotted with the Devi and Shiva on the left and right sides respectively.
Best Time to Visit
The place is well connected by roads and railways. It is just 13 Km away from Shencottah. Trains leading to Shenacottah stop at Aryankavu. The main festival occurs in December every year and attracts thousands of devotees. However there are also other celebrations that include the Sabarimala Mandala Kalam.
Photo Gallery