Pathanamthitta,Kerala
Pathanamthitta is a district in the state of Kerala that is famous for its natural beauty, fairs and festivals. A Tour to Pathanamthitta gives you the wonderful chance to view nature at its very best. The vast stretches of forests, the meandering rivers and the rural topography combine to create an irresistible charm. Pathanamthitta is a small city which is a thickly forested region dotted with mountains and rivers and temples. Tour to Pathanamthitta is not only for the breathtaking views it offers but Pathanamthitta is also important as a pilgrimage center. Pathanamthitta is a beautiful place which draws a number of tourists for its religious shrines and the water sports and even its scenic beauty. The world famous Ayaapa Temple is located Sabrimala in Pathanamthitta. It was carved out of Idukki, Alappuzha and Kollam districts in 1982. The district is close to the western Ghats and is endowed with scenic landscape comprising of low undulating hills, extensive stretches of lush forests, rivers and charming countryside. It is also known for exuberant fairs and festivals. The Thiruvalla taluk is known for its cane and rattan work industry. Copra is produced and exported from the district in large scale. Other important cash crops produced here are pepper, tapioca and rubber. Pathanamthitta district is known as the 'Headquarters of Pilgrimage Tourism', of the State.
District Map
1. Pathanamthitta Mosque
This is a famous Muslim pilgrim center. In the month of February every year, tourists and believers swarm the place to join the famous 'Chandanakkudam' feast and to witness the grand celebration observed then. The many colors, bright lights, majestically decorated elephants and musical accompaniment leave vivid images in the memory of the visitors.
2. Manjinikkara
Manjinikkara earns its fame as the sacred place where the tomb of a celebrated Christian patriarch remains .The mortal remains of Mar Ignatius 111 attracts a lot of believers into the Pathanamthitta district every year.
3. Malayalappuzha
This place is famous for the ancient Bhagavathi temple situated here. Not only does the monument stand as a classical example of temple architecture, but it also showcases brilliant craftsmanship through the elegant wall paintings and stone figurines. There is also a grand festival celebrated at the temple every year
4. Kadammanitta
This is a typical Kerala village. On a visit to the place one can observe the tranquil life people lead in villages here. There is also a beautiful Devi temple here. A special kind of folk art called Padayani is performed at the temple grounds every April. Kadammanitta is also well known for the many stone statues that enact stories and incidents narrated in famous poems, especially those of poet Ramakrishnan.
5. Konni Elephant Cage
Konni offers something unusual to visitors. The place is synonymous with 'aanakoodu' or the elephant cage. The main attraction here is the huge wooden cages where wild elephants are put in and trained for various purposes. One can often find herds of elephants roaming about in the nearby forest area.
6. Sabarimala Sree Dharmasastha Temple
Sabarimala that stands as tall as about 914m above sea level is a part of the great Sahya ranges. The Ayyappan temple here is one of the most popular pilgrim centers. Pilgrims, especially from the southern states, keenly observe stringent rituals for 41 days, tread through the forest (a part of the journey up hill is on foot) , and gather at the temple during the festive seasons to receive the Lord's blessings. Though there are special prayers offered every Malayalam month, the busiest months are Dec- Jan and April when the famous Makara Vilakku and Vishu Vilakku are celebrated. During the festival period there are frequent bus services to Sabarimala from Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram.
7. Pamba
The bank of this river is the chief point where pilgrims break their journey to the Ayyappan temple at Sabarimala. Standing here one can also gaze at the splendid sight of the convergence of three noisy rivers.
8. Perunthenaruvi
Perumthenaruvi, is one of the rivers that adds luster to the landscape of Pathanamthitta. The specific spot that takes after the river is in a relatively unexplored lush forest area, amidst a few boulders. At this serene location, gallons of clear water surge down great heights into a deep gorge to join the Pampa River.
9. Nilackal
This is another of the attractions near Sabarimala, this location is known for the ancient Siva Temple and the Ecumenical Christian center . The few acres of well-maintained farms in the area seem like lush velvet carpets.
10. Aranmula
Aranmula is a popular tourist destination and a famous pilgrim center. This little town by Pamba is where one of the much-awaited Snake-boat races is held. The riverbank would be teeming with tourists and the media in August- September when the spectacular boat race and the connected celebrations are held.The river, with long snake shaped boats, the huge ornamental umbrellas and many uniformed oarsmen, would indeed be a sight to see. Around the same time in the Malayalam month of Chingam (Aug- Sept) the famous Sree Krishna temple at Aranmula also becomes a major attraction. There would be elaborate decorations, processions and weeklong festivities to celebrate the installation of the deity.
Aranmula is also noted for its crafts and people's dexterity. The talented craftsmen here put together the legendary Aranmula kannadi. These special metal (mirrors from bell metal instead of glass) mirrors with excellently crafted handles, are prepared only at Aranmula by following a secretly guarded technique.
11. Vijnana Kalavedi
This institute at Aranmula has as special a place as Cheruthuruthy at Thrissur. Traditional performance arts, crafts and martial arts of Kerala are taught here. Special lessons are given to foreigners who wish to enroll as students.
12. Kozhencherry and Charalkunnu
Kozhencherry remains extremely popular as the venue for the biggest religious gathering of the Christians in Asia. Named the Maramon convention, this famous congregation is held every February/ March. There is also another Christian retreat at the near by Charalkunnu.
13. Pandalam
The Valiya Koickal temple, on the banks of the Achankoil River, is one of the main halts on the pilgrimage to Sabarimala. This temple is considered to have been erected by Lord Ayyappa himself. This is also the chosen place to safeguard the sacred ornaments that adorn the deity at Sabarimala temple. Grand processions carrying these ornaments leave from Achankoil to Sabarimala during festivals .
14. Parumala
The beautiful church in the area has earned Parumala the fame of a renowned Christian pilgrim centre. The magnificent building also houses the tomb of celebrant Mar Gregorios Metropolitan, a Saint of Malankara Orthodox Church. The best time to visit the place is in November when one would also get to witness the fabulous orma perunnal (Remembrance Day) celebrations.
15. Thiruvalla Srevallabha Temple
This temple at Parumala is one of the most important pilgrim centres for Vaishnavites all over India. A granite pillar carved out of a single piece with an image of Garuda on its top stands in front of the temple. The pillar which serves as a flagstaff is 60ft. in height. Kathakali, the classical dance of Kerala, is performed almost all nights in this temple as offerings by devotees. The temple is situated 3kms away from the railway station.
16. Paliakara Church
A few kilometers away from Parumala, at the nearby Thiruvalla town are Paliakara church. This monument is also noted for its splendid construction work and spectacular mural paintings.
17. Niranam
This place earns its fame not only as a pilgrim center, but also as a historically significant site as well as. The powerful ancient church situated at Niranam, near Parumala, dates back to 52A.D. This monument is believed to have been erected by Apostle St. Thomas and is considered the oldest Christian church.
18. Kaviyoor
Kaviyoor, near Parumala is noted for the many ancient temples here. The Sree Hanuman temple here is one of the few temples in the state dedicated to the monkey god. The temple structure also is a marvelous example of typical Kerala temple architecture.
The ancient Siva temple at Kavioor is believed to have been constructed by the rulers of the Pallava dynasty. The rock cut temple and the remarkable stone carvings and statues there are more than 13 centuries old. The monument is now being maintained and preserved by the Archeology department.
19. Koduman
Koduman has an extraordinary place among the pilgrim centers. Koduman is known for the unique Spider temple. People visit the place and offer special prayers believing that the deity here can cure spider poison.
20. Mannadi
Mannadi has a special place among the cultural centers of Kerala. Kerala Institute of Folklore and Folk arts imparts training in the different traditional art forms. The place is also known for the very old Bhagavathi temple here and the stone work and figurines in the temple yard. The temple lures a lot of visitors and tourists in February/March when annual celebrations connected to the temple festival, Ushabali commence.
21. Kakki Reservoir
Kakki reservoir is one of the most famous of the three reservoirs in Pathanamthitta. The construction style of the reservoir is noteworthy. There is also a brilliantly prepared artificial lake where boating facilities are also provided. One might also get a chance to spot tigers, elephants, deer or monkeys in the lush tropical forest that hems the reservoir.
22. Cherukolpuzha
An important religious convention of the Hindus is held at Cherukol on the riverbed of the Pamba, usually in February every year.
23. Maramon
Situated near Kozhencherry, Maramon is the venue of a mammoth religious convention of Christians from all over the world. It is attended by people from all communities. The convention which is usually held in February is addressed by religious thinkers and Christian scholars from across the world. This is perhaps the largest Christian convention in Asia.
There was strong protest in Travancore against the British in connection with the visit of the Prince of Wales in 1921. In 1922, a student's strike was held which instilled a lot of spirit and enthusiasm among the freedom fighters. During the same period, Congress leaders like Ponnara Sreedhar and K. Kumar, the participants from Kerala in the flag satyagraha at Nagpur were arrested and beaten up by the police. The contribution of Elanthoor K.Kumar, Thadiyal Raghavan Pillai, Pandalam KP and N.G. Chacko to the National Movement have much significance in the history of freedom struggle.
The district can be divided into three natural geographical regions: the highland, the midland and the lowland. The highland stretches through the Western Ghats, where the hills are tall and covered with thick forests. Western Ghats maintains an average altitude of around 800 m. It descends to the smaller hills of midland in the centre and finally to the lowland. The lowland with its abundance of coconut trees, lies along the western borders of Alappuzha district.
Pathanamthitta experiences three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon and winter. Typical summer months are from March to May. The warmest month in Pathanamthitta is April. Although summer doesn't end until May, the city often receives locally developed heavy thundershowers in May (although humidity remains high).
The monsoon lasts from June to August, with moderate rainfall. Most of the heavy rainfall in the city fall between June and July, and June is the wettest month of the year. Last weeks of June is also days of floods. The three major rivers viz Pampa, Achankovil and Manimala swell with rainwater.
Winter begins in December. December through February are the winter months. The lowest temperatures are experienced during January.
According to the Census of India 2001, the district had a population of 1,234,016 with a density of 467 persons per square kilometre. This is the lowest density in the State after Idukki and Wayanad Schedule tribes and castes comprise 13% of the total population. The female to male ratio is 1094:1000, which is the highest among the districts in the State. Pathanamthitta's literacy rate is 95%.
Pathanamthitta's major religion are Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains have much smaller followings. As of 2004 the population included 694,560 Hindus, 481,602 Christians and 56,457 Muslims, the lowest following in the State.
The residents of Pathanamthitta partake of Keralite cuisine, which is generally characterised by an abundance of coconut and spices. Other South Indian and Chinese cuisines are also popular. The residents of the district generally wear traditional Kerala wear. The younger generation prefers Indo-Western clothing to the traditional wear.
The early history of Malayalam literature and the native tradition of Malayalam poetry has its roots in the district through the contributions of the three poets known as Niranam Poets. They lived between AD 1350 and 1450. Their work include the Malayalam translation of Bhagavad Gita, Bharatamala (a condensation of Mahabharatam), Ramayanam, Bhartam, Bhagavata Purana and Sivarathri Mahatmyam. These works are considered to be among the first major work of its kind in Malayalam.
Pathanamthitta was home to a number of acclaimed poets like Pandalam Kerala Varma, Muloor S.Padmanabha Panicker, Puthenkavu Mathan Tharakan, Vennikkulam Gopala Kurup, Kadammanitta Ramakrishnan, Nellikkal Muraleedharan and K. V. Simon. Renowned writers like Guru Nitya Chaitanya Yati, Dr.K. M. George, Idayaranmula K. M. Varghese, Dr.K. M. Tharakan, Konniyoor Narendranath had their roots here. Painters like V. S. Valiathan, C. K. Ra, Paris Viswanathan and Cartoonists like P. K. Manthri, S. Jithesh, Madhu Omalloor were born in this district. Film personalities like Adoor Gopalakrishnan, Aranmula Ponnamma, Adoor Bhavani, Adoor Bhasi, Adoor Pankajam, Kaviyoor Ponnamma, M.G. Soman and Mohanlal are the natives of this district.
The forests of the district have excellent wild life habitats. A variety of animals and birds can be found. Tigers, elephants, gaur, deer, monkeys and other wild animals are found in the forest. Giant squirrel, lion-tailed macaques, barking deer and bear can also be spotted in the reserve. Malabar Grey Hornbill and Great Indian Hornbill are found. Wide variety of other birds such as sunbirds, woodpeckers and kingfishers can also be seen.
The existence of the wild life habitat is under threat from various areas. Pollution from fertilizer and industries and illegal sand mining are the major threats. Issues connected to Sabarimala pilgrimage such as clearing of forest land and large amount of waste discharged also threatens the habitat.
Rail : Nearest railway station is Thiruvalla (30 km); Chengannur (28 km)
Road : Pathanamthitta is well connected by an excellent network of roads to all major towns in Kerala. Kottayam is 56 km away.
Pathanamthitta is a district in the state of Kerala that is famous for its natural beauty, fairs and festivals. A Tour to Pathanamthitta gives you the wonderful chance to view nature at its very best. The vast stretches of forests, the meandering rivers and the rural topography combine to create an irresistible charm. Pathanamthitta is a small city which is a thickly forested region dotted with mountains and rivers and temples. Tour to Pathanamthitta is not only for the breathtaking views it offers but Pathanamthitta is also important as a pilgrimage center. Pathanamthitta is a beautiful place which draws a number of tourists for its religious shrines and the water sports and even its scenic beauty. The world famous Ayaapa Temple is located Sabrimala in Pathanamthitta. It was carved out of Idukki, Alappuzha and Kollam districts in 1982. The district is close to the western Ghats and is endowed with scenic landscape comprising of low undulating hills, extensive stretches of lush forests, rivers and charming countryside. It is also known for exuberant fairs and festivals. The Thiruvalla taluk is known for its cane and rattan work industry. Copra is produced and exported from the district in large scale. Other important cash crops produced here are pepper, tapioca and rubber. Pathanamthitta district is known as the 'Headquarters of Pilgrimage Tourism', of the State.
District Profile
| District Name | Pathanamthitta |
| State | Kerala |
| Country | India |
| Area | 2,642 sq km |
| Population | 1,231,577 (Approx) |
| Rain Fall | 229 cm (annual) |
| Temperature | Min 20 °C - Max 39 °C |
District Map
Tourist Attraction in and around Pathanamthitta
1. Pathanamthitta Mosque
This is a famous Muslim pilgrim center. In the month of February every year, tourists and believers swarm the place to join the famous 'Chandanakkudam' feast and to witness the grand celebration observed then. The many colors, bright lights, majestically decorated elephants and musical accompaniment leave vivid images in the memory of the visitors.
2. Manjinikkara
Manjinikkara earns its fame as the sacred place where the tomb of a celebrated Christian patriarch remains .The mortal remains of Mar Ignatius 111 attracts a lot of believers into the Pathanamthitta district every year.
3. Malayalappuzha
This place is famous for the ancient Bhagavathi temple situated here. Not only does the monument stand as a classical example of temple architecture, but it also showcases brilliant craftsmanship through the elegant wall paintings and stone figurines. There is also a grand festival celebrated at the temple every year
4. Kadammanitta
This is a typical Kerala village. On a visit to the place one can observe the tranquil life people lead in villages here. There is also a beautiful Devi temple here. A special kind of folk art called Padayani is performed at the temple grounds every April. Kadammanitta is also well known for the many stone statues that enact stories and incidents narrated in famous poems, especially those of poet Ramakrishnan.
5. Konni Elephant Cage
Konni offers something unusual to visitors. The place is synonymous with 'aanakoodu' or the elephant cage. The main attraction here is the huge wooden cages where wild elephants are put in and trained for various purposes. One can often find herds of elephants roaming about in the nearby forest area.
6. Sabarimala Sree Dharmasastha Temple
Sabarimala that stands as tall as about 914m above sea level is a part of the great Sahya ranges. The Ayyappan temple here is one of the most popular pilgrim centers. Pilgrims, especially from the southern states, keenly observe stringent rituals for 41 days, tread through the forest (a part of the journey up hill is on foot) , and gather at the temple during the festive seasons to receive the Lord's blessings. Though there are special prayers offered every Malayalam month, the busiest months are Dec- Jan and April when the famous Makara Vilakku and Vishu Vilakku are celebrated. During the festival period there are frequent bus services to Sabarimala from Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram.
7. Pamba
The bank of this river is the chief point where pilgrims break their journey to the Ayyappan temple at Sabarimala. Standing here one can also gaze at the splendid sight of the convergence of three noisy rivers.
8. Perunthenaruvi
Perumthenaruvi, is one of the rivers that adds luster to the landscape of Pathanamthitta. The specific spot that takes after the river is in a relatively unexplored lush forest area, amidst a few boulders. At this serene location, gallons of clear water surge down great heights into a deep gorge to join the Pampa River.
9. Nilackal
This is another of the attractions near Sabarimala, this location is known for the ancient Siva Temple and the Ecumenical Christian center . The few acres of well-maintained farms in the area seem like lush velvet carpets.
10. Aranmula
Aranmula is a popular tourist destination and a famous pilgrim center. This little town by Pamba is where one of the much-awaited Snake-boat races is held. The riverbank would be teeming with tourists and the media in August- September when the spectacular boat race and the connected celebrations are held.The river, with long snake shaped boats, the huge ornamental umbrellas and many uniformed oarsmen, would indeed be a sight to see. Around the same time in the Malayalam month of Chingam (Aug- Sept) the famous Sree Krishna temple at Aranmula also becomes a major attraction. There would be elaborate decorations, processions and weeklong festivities to celebrate the installation of the deity.
Aranmula is also noted for its crafts and people's dexterity. The talented craftsmen here put together the legendary Aranmula kannadi. These special metal (mirrors from bell metal instead of glass) mirrors with excellently crafted handles, are prepared only at Aranmula by following a secretly guarded technique.
11. Vijnana Kalavedi
This institute at Aranmula has as special a place as Cheruthuruthy at Thrissur. Traditional performance arts, crafts and martial arts of Kerala are taught here. Special lessons are given to foreigners who wish to enroll as students.
12. Kozhencherry and Charalkunnu
Kozhencherry remains extremely popular as the venue for the biggest religious gathering of the Christians in Asia. Named the Maramon convention, this famous congregation is held every February/ March. There is also another Christian retreat at the near by Charalkunnu.
13. Pandalam
The Valiya Koickal temple, on the banks of the Achankoil River, is one of the main halts on the pilgrimage to Sabarimala. This temple is considered to have been erected by Lord Ayyappa himself. This is also the chosen place to safeguard the sacred ornaments that adorn the deity at Sabarimala temple. Grand processions carrying these ornaments leave from Achankoil to Sabarimala during festivals .
14. Parumala
The beautiful church in the area has earned Parumala the fame of a renowned Christian pilgrim centre. The magnificent building also houses the tomb of celebrant Mar Gregorios Metropolitan, a Saint of Malankara Orthodox Church. The best time to visit the place is in November when one would also get to witness the fabulous orma perunnal (Remembrance Day) celebrations.
15. Thiruvalla Srevallabha Temple
This temple at Parumala is one of the most important pilgrim centres for Vaishnavites all over India. A granite pillar carved out of a single piece with an image of Garuda on its top stands in front of the temple. The pillar which serves as a flagstaff is 60ft. in height. Kathakali, the classical dance of Kerala, is performed almost all nights in this temple as offerings by devotees. The temple is situated 3kms away from the railway station.
16. Paliakara Church
17. Niranam
This place earns its fame not only as a pilgrim center, but also as a historically significant site as well as. The powerful ancient church situated at Niranam, near Parumala, dates back to 52A.D. This monument is believed to have been erected by Apostle St. Thomas and is considered the oldest Christian church.
18. Kaviyoor
Kaviyoor, near Parumala is noted for the many ancient temples here. The Sree Hanuman temple here is one of the few temples in the state dedicated to the monkey god. The temple structure also is a marvelous example of typical Kerala temple architecture.
The ancient Siva temple at Kavioor is believed to have been constructed by the rulers of the Pallava dynasty. The rock cut temple and the remarkable stone carvings and statues there are more than 13 centuries old. The monument is now being maintained and preserved by the Archeology department.
19. Koduman
Koduman has an extraordinary place among the pilgrim centers. Koduman is known for the unique Spider temple. People visit the place and offer special prayers believing that the deity here can cure spider poison.
20. Mannadi
Mannadi has a special place among the cultural centers of Kerala. Kerala Institute of Folklore and Folk arts imparts training in the different traditional art forms. The place is also known for the very old Bhagavathi temple here and the stone work and figurines in the temple yard. The temple lures a lot of visitors and tourists in February/March when annual celebrations connected to the temple festival, Ushabali commence.
21. Kakki Reservoir
Kakki reservoir is one of the most famous of the three reservoirs in Pathanamthitta. The construction style of the reservoir is noteworthy. There is also a brilliantly prepared artificial lake where boating facilities are also provided. One might also get a chance to spot tigers, elephants, deer or monkeys in the lush tropical forest that hems the reservoir.
22. Cherukolpuzha
An important religious convention of the Hindus is held at Cherukol on the riverbed of the Pamba, usually in February every year.
23. Maramon
Situated near Kozhencherry, Maramon is the venue of a mammoth religious convention of Christians from all over the world. It is attended by people from all communities. The convention which is usually held in February is addressed by religious thinkers and Christian scholars from across the world. This is perhaps the largest Christian convention in Asia.
Origin of Name
There are different versions on how the name Pathanamthitta came about. One view is that the name is derived from two Tamil / [Malayalam]] words Pathanam and thitta, which together mean "array of ten "family" houses by the riverside". Another opinion is that is pattanam (town) which became 'pathanam'. Thus, Pathanamthitta meant a town by the riverside.Pathanamthitta city is located on the fertile banks of the River Achenkovil.History
It is presumed that the regions presently under the district were formerly under the Pandalam reign which had connections with the Pandya kingdom. Pathanamthitta now includes portions of the erstwhile Kollam, Alappuzha and Idukki districts. Pathanamthitta, Adoor, Ranni, Konni and Kozhencherry are some of the important places taken from Kollam district, whereas Thiruvalla and Mallappally are the major places taken from Alappuzha district.National Movement
The district can be proud of its rich contribution to the struggle for freedom. When Mahatma Gandhi visited the erstwhile Travancore in 1937, he asked his follower Khadar Das T.P. Gopala Pillai to spread the message of Khadi and Charka. Inspired by Gandhiji he founded the 'Mahatma Khadi Ashram' at Elanthoor 1941. He launched a scheme for mobilizing funds for khadi activities known as 'ek paise fund' in order to ensure the participation of the whole people in the khadi movement.There was strong protest in Travancore against the British in connection with the visit of the Prince of Wales in 1921. In 1922, a student's strike was held which instilled a lot of spirit and enthusiasm among the freedom fighters. During the same period, Congress leaders like Ponnara Sreedhar and K. Kumar, the participants from Kerala in the flag satyagraha at Nagpur were arrested and beaten up by the police. The contribution of Elanthoor K.Kumar, Thadiyal Raghavan Pillai, Pandalam KP and N.G. Chacko to the National Movement have much significance in the history of freedom struggle.
Geography & Location
Pathanamthitta is a landlocked district, located at 9°16′N 76°47′E / 9.27°N 76.78°E, spanning over an area of 2,637 square kilometres (1,018.15 sq mi). The district is bordered by the districts Kottayam and Idukki in the north, Alappuzha in the west, Kollam in the south. To the east it has border with the Tamil Nadu state.The district can be divided into three natural geographical regions: the highland, the midland and the lowland. The highland stretches through the Western Ghats, where the hills are tall and covered with thick forests. Western Ghats maintains an average altitude of around 800 m. It descends to the smaller hills of midland in the centre and finally to the lowland. The lowland with its abundance of coconut trees, lies along the western borders of Alappuzha district.
Rivers
Three important rivers flow through the district. They are Pamba, Achankovil and Manimala rivers. The Rishimala forms the river Achankovil, Pasukidamettu and Ramakkalteri and joins the Pamba at Veeyapuram in Alappuzha district. The Pampa river is a confluence of Pambayar, Aruthayar, Kakkadayar, Kakkar and Kallar. It descends from Sabarimala, flows through various parts of Ranni taluk, enters Alappuzha district after joining with river Manimala and river Achankovil and empties itself into the Vembanad lake.Forest
Pathanamthitta district has a reserve forest area of 1,385.27 square kilometres (534.86 sq mi). This is approximately 50% of the total district area. The forest area can broadly be classified as evergreen, semi-evergreen and moist deciduous. The forest is the main source of raw materials for wood based industrial units. Timber is the most important produce.Climate
The city enjoys a tropical climate, the monsoons start in June. The months of April–May can get pretty humid. The best weather is from October to February.Pathanamthitta experiences three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon and winter. Typical summer months are from March to May. The warmest month in Pathanamthitta is April. Although summer doesn't end until May, the city often receives locally developed heavy thundershowers in May (although humidity remains high).
The monsoon lasts from June to August, with moderate rainfall. Most of the heavy rainfall in the city fall between June and July, and June is the wettest month of the year. Last weeks of June is also days of floods. The three major rivers viz Pampa, Achankovil and Manimala swell with rainwater.
Winter begins in December. December through February are the winter months. The lowest temperatures are experienced during January.
Demographics
According to the 2011 census Pathanamthitta district has a population of 1,195,537, roughly equal to the nation of Timor-Leste or the US state of Rhode Island. This gives it a ranking of 399th in India (out of a total of 640). The district has a population density of 453 inhabitants per square kilometre (1,170 /sq mi) . Its population growth rate over the decade 2001-2011 was -3.12 %. Pathanamthitta has a sex ratio of 1129 females for every 1000 males, and a literacy rate of 96.93 %.According to the Census of India 2001, the district had a population of 1,234,016 with a density of 467 persons per square kilometre. This is the lowest density in the State after Idukki and Wayanad Schedule tribes and castes comprise 13% of the total population. The female to male ratio is 1094:1000, which is the highest among the districts in the State. Pathanamthitta's literacy rate is 95%.
Pathanamthitta's major religion are Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains have much smaller followings. As of 2004 the population included 694,560 Hindus, 481,602 Christians and 56,457 Muslims, the lowest following in the State.
Culture
Pathanamthitta district is known for its fairs and festivals. The Padayani is one such major folk art. The colourful art, colloquially known as Padeni, is associated with the festivals of certain temples only in Southern Kerala. The art is a combination of music, dance, painting and satire. Sabarimala, Maramon Convention, Anandapalli and Kadammanitta are some of the major fairs and festivals.Traditional Keralite festivals like Onam, Vishu as well as other major Christian and Islam festivals are celebrated with great fervor. The region is known for its cultural heritage and communal harmony. Participation of people from different religions can be seen.The residents of Pathanamthitta partake of Keralite cuisine, which is generally characterised by an abundance of coconut and spices. Other South Indian and Chinese cuisines are also popular. The residents of the district generally wear traditional Kerala wear. The younger generation prefers Indo-Western clothing to the traditional wear.
The early history of Malayalam literature and the native tradition of Malayalam poetry has its roots in the district through the contributions of the three poets known as Niranam Poets. They lived between AD 1350 and 1450. Their work include the Malayalam translation of Bhagavad Gita, Bharatamala (a condensation of Mahabharatam), Ramayanam, Bhartam, Bhagavata Purana and Sivarathri Mahatmyam. These works are considered to be among the first major work of its kind in Malayalam.
Pathanamthitta was home to a number of acclaimed poets like Pandalam Kerala Varma, Muloor S.Padmanabha Panicker, Puthenkavu Mathan Tharakan, Vennikkulam Gopala Kurup, Kadammanitta Ramakrishnan, Nellikkal Muraleedharan and K. V. Simon. Renowned writers like Guru Nitya Chaitanya Yati, Dr.K. M. George, Idayaranmula K. M. Varghese, Dr.K. M. Tharakan, Konniyoor Narendranath had their roots here. Painters like V. S. Valiathan, C. K. Ra, Paris Viswanathan and Cartoonists like P. K. Manthri, S. Jithesh, Madhu Omalloor were born in this district. Film personalities like Adoor Gopalakrishnan, Aranmula Ponnamma, Adoor Bhavani, Adoor Bhasi, Adoor Pankajam, Kaviyoor Ponnamma, M.G. Soman and Mohanlal are the natives of this district.
Agriculture
Agriculture is the main occupation of the people. About 75% people are dependent on this sector. Rubber is the most important crop, with its plantations covering over 478 square kilometres (185 sq mi). The hilly terrain coupled with high humidity makes the region suitable for rubber plantations. Paddy is the most important crop cultivated in the wet lands. Tapioca and pulses are the important dry land crops. Other major crops are coconut, banana, pepper and ginger. In certain areas cashew, pineapple, sugarcane, cocoa and other tree spices are cultivated. The land available for cultivation is less since sizeable area of the district is reserve forest.Flora & Fauna
Pathanamthitta has tropical biodiversity with forest, plantations, rivers and fertile land. Fifty percent of the district is covered with forest, providing rich flora and fauna. The district has a variety of plants including medicinal, spices, tuber crops and those yielding fruits and fiber. Aromatic plants and spices such as pepper, ginger, cardamom and turmeric are cultivated on a large scale. Trees such as timber, teak, rosewood, jack tree, manjakadambu, anjili, pala can be found in abundance.The forests of the district have excellent wild life habitats. A variety of animals and birds can be found. Tigers, elephants, gaur, deer, monkeys and other wild animals are found in the forest. Giant squirrel, lion-tailed macaques, barking deer and bear can also be spotted in the reserve. Malabar Grey Hornbill and Great Indian Hornbill are found. Wide variety of other birds such as sunbirds, woodpeckers and kingfishers can also be seen.
The existence of the wild life habitat is under threat from various areas. Pollution from fertilizer and industries and illegal sand mining are the major threats. Issues connected to Sabarimala pilgrimage such as clearing of forest land and large amount of waste discharged also threatens the habitat.
How to Reach
Air : Nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram (119 km), Ernakulam Nedumbassery Airport (146 km)Rail : Nearest railway station is Thiruvalla (30 km); Chengannur (28 km)
Road : Pathanamthitta is well connected by an excellent network of roads to all major towns in Kerala. Kottayam is 56 km away.
