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Valiyakoyikkal Temple, Pathanamthitta

The Valiyakoyikkal Temple lies on the scenic banks of the Anchankovil river. It is 15 km away from the ‘Religious Capital of Kerala’, Pathanamthitta. The Valiyakoyikkal Temple of Sri Dharma Sastha is believed to be erected by the king of Pandalam. According to mythology, Sri Dharma Sastha, also known as Ayappa, was found abandoned on the banks of the river Pampa.

The Raja of Pandalam found him and considered the baby as a gift of God and adopted him. This Ayappa shrine has been sculptured based on the Sabarimala temple. Pilgrims visit this place to worship and then resume their journey to Sabarimala.

One of the main festivals associated with the Valiyakoyikkal Temple is Makaravilaku festival which is held for 3 days before the commemoration of Makaravilakku. In this festival, representatives of the temple carry the sacred ornaments of Lord Ayyappa, which is called Thiruvabharanam in a procession from the Valiyakoyikkal temple to Sabarimala.

Valiyakoyikkal Temple Photos