Aryankavu Ayyappa temple is one among the five temples (Pancha Sastha Temples) consecrated by Parasurama in Kerala. This temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, that is, Aryankavu Ayyan (Tiruaryan) is believed to be the adolescent form of Lord Ayyappa. This beautiful and divine temple is residing on the banks of Rajakoop stream, which is a tributary of the Kallada river.
The peculiarity of the temple is that it is built 35 ft below the road level and they are ornate with splendid sculptures and mural paintings. Devotees usually visit Aryankavu Ayyappa temple during December (Malayalam month Dhanu), because it is then Thiru Kalyanam (Thrikalyanam/ Thirumanam) the major event of this temple takes place. It is celebrated every year, for the ages past as a remembrance of Ayyapans marriage. It is believed that Swamy Ayyappan had married Shri Pushkaladevi in Arayankavu. Since Shri Pushkaladevi belonged to Saurashtra Brahmin community, the marriage rituals are according to their customs and traditions.
There is a special Kalyana Mandapam upon which the marriage rituals are conducted and the walls are decorated with erotic sculptures on the models of Khajuraho temple. Thiru Kalyanam rituals are often performed in this Mandapam on the 10th night of Malayalam month Dhanu. The rituals performed inside the temple is followed in Kerala tradition and those performed outside the temple is in Tamil tradition. It is a real delight to watch the two varieties of rituals performed within and outside the temple. Visit Aryankavu Ayyappa temple for the divine ambience and peace it offers. There are special poojas performed on the festive days.
Contact Details
Aryankavu Ayyappa Temple,
8, Kollam – Thirumangalam Rd,
Aryankavu, Puliyarai R.F. Part,
Kollam, Kerala 691309
