the land where season never ends !

Certain customs are to be strictly observed if one has to undertake a pilgrimage to Sabarimala. A pilgrim attending the Mandalapooja should observe austerities for 41 days, 60 days for Makaravilakku. During this period, the pilgrim should abstain himself from non - vegetarian habits and carnal pleasures. There are many routes to Sabarimala. The most ardous among them is via Erumeli, with trekking distance of 64 kms through the jungle.

On Makara Sankranthi, Makarajyothi ( the lamp) is believed to blaze in the horizon. Unlike certain Hindu temples, Sabarimala temple has no restrictions of caste or creed. Females who have either reached menopause or not attained puberty can also visit the temple

Devotees with Uruli participate in the Ezhunnallathu conducted on the second day. 'Sarpakalam Pattu', a religious ritual is performed on the Ayillyam day of every Malayalam month and also on Sivaratri

Kodungalloor
Sree Kurumba Bhagavathi Temple
50 Kms from Cochin, this a very famous temple. Goddess Bhagavathi is the presiding deity. The idol of Bhagawati is huge with eight hands, wielding weapons. Besides the presiding deity, there are many other deities installed in various parts of this sprawling temple complex. Of the two main festivals, Thalapoli and Bharani, the latter is the most important one. Thalapoli is a colourful festival that lasts four days. On all the four days, Ezunnallathu with 9 elephants is held in the evening.The Bharani festival attracts the largest congregation of Oracles (Velichappadu), both men and women, from all over the state. Dressed in yellow and smeared in turmeric powder with their bell - studded waist belts and swords, they create an eerie atmosphere, totally out of this world. These oracles get into a frenzy and cut their forehead to offer blood to the deity. Cultural performances are a part of the festival.

Other Places of Worship

• Varkala
• Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple
• Kalady
• Trichur
• St. Francis Church
• Santcruz Basilica
• Guruvayoor
• Malayattoor