Achankovil Sree Dharmasastha Temple
Achankovil Sree Dharmasastha Temple, located in the forest ranges of Kollam district near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, is a sacred and ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. Surrounded by lush greenery and situated on the banks of the Achankovil River, the temple is known for its divine energy, healing traditions, and deep-rooted spiritual importance.
Achankovil Sree Dharmasastha Temple,is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Ayyappa (Dharmasastha). Surrounded by the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats and situated on the banks of the Achankovil River, the temple offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere. It is unique among Ayyappa temples as the deity is enshrined with his consorts, Poorna and Pushkala, reflecting a rare iconographic form.
The temple is especially famous for its healing rituals related to snakebite cases. Devotees believe that the sandal paste (Chandanam) and holy water (Theertham) from the temple have curative powers, and people bitten by snakes are brought here for spiritual healing. These age-old traditions have made Achankovil a vital center of faith and folklore, drawing thousands of pilgrims every year from Kerala and neighboring Tamil Nadu.
Achankovil Temple is visited by many people who come to pray and enjoy the calm and natural surroundings. The temple is in a forest area, which makes the place very peaceful. It is also part of the Pancha Sastha temples, and many devotees visit it as part of their pilgrimage. The temple gives a special feeling of devotion and is a good place for prayer and peace.
🚗 How to Reach
By Road: Achankovil is about 56 km from Punalur and 80 km from Kollam.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Punalur, located approximately 58 km from the temple.
By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is around 130 km away.
🛕 Visitor Information
Temple Timings:
-> Morning: 4:30 AM – 11:30 AM
-> Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Special Offerings:
-> Sandal paste and holy water for snakebite healing
-> Payasam, coconut, and oil lamp offerings
🎉 Main Festivals
-> Mandala-Makaravilakku (December–January): Special rituals and large pilgrim gatherings.
-> Utsavam (January–February): Annual temple festival with rituals and cultural programs.
📞 Contact Information
Address: Achankovil Sree Dharmasastha Temple,
Achankovil P.O.,
Kollam – 691552, Kerala, India
Phone: +91 476 221 5171
Images of Achankovil Sree Dharmasastha Temple
