Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple sits along the River Pamba and features four entrance towers built in traditional Kerala style with carved wood. The interior holds several shrines and courtyards linked by covered walkways.

Local traditions trace the founding of this shrine to the period following the Kurukshetra war described in the Mahabharata epic. Later rulers of Travancore supported the construction of additional structures and maintained the site across centuries.

The deity inside is known as Parthasarathy, a name drawn from Sanskrit meaning the charioteer of Arjuna. This connection still links the shrine to ancient tales from the Mahabharata.

The compound lies about 15 kilometers from the town of Chengannur and is easy to reach by road. Visitors should wear long clothing and leave footwear at the entrance, as is common in Hindu temples.

Each year during the Vallasadya festival season, snake boats pass this shrine on the River Pamba and the rowers later share a communal meal. This feast can offer up to 64 different dishes prepared in large quantities for all participants.

Location: Pathanamthitta district

GPS coordinates: 9.32778,76.68833

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:29