Description:
Kottayam town is the gateway to pilgrim centres of Sabarimala, Mannanam, Vaikom, Ettumanoor, Bharananganam, Erumeli, Manarcadu, Aruvithura and Athirampuzha. The famous Vaikom Siva Temple, associated with the legendary Parasurama, is just 40 km. north of Kottayam town and is a typical example of Kerala Temple Architecture. So also are the Temples of Perunna, Vazhappally and Thrikkodithanam near Changanacherry. The Temple at Ettumanoor about 12 km. north of Kottayam town is famous for murals and 'ezhara ponnana' or the 71 elephants finished in gold. The Mosque at Erumeli about 60km northeast of Kottayam town is dedicated to Vavar, a contemporary and companion of Lord Ayyappa, a Hindu deity. Every year the unique sight of multitudes of Hindu pilgrims worshipping at this mosque before their trek to Sabarimala to worship Lord Ayyappa is remarkably spectacular. What better example for Hindu Muslim amity over centuries in this country than this!
