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Aruvikkara
Aruvikkara is an important pilgrim centre located at a
distance of 16 kms from Thiruvananthapuram. Flowing by
is the Karamana River, on the banks of which, is the
rock-shrine dedicated to 'Bhagvathi', the divine
embodiment of Female power. There is a waterfall nearby.
The place is of a lot of tourist interest and the site
of a mini dam, which supplies water to the state
capital, is worth seeing. It is both a pilgrim centre
and a picnic spot.
Bharananganam
Bharananganam is an important Christian Pilgrimage
centre, located 5 kms east of Palai on the Kottayam -
Erattupett Road. Associated with Sister Alphonsa, the
blessed saint of the Catholics, the mortal remains of
the saint are preserved in a chapel next to the St.
Mary's Church. She lived from 1916 AD to 1946 AD. The
day of 28th July, the death anniversary of the saint is
observed with much solemnity. This 100-year-old church
features an attractive grotto of Virgin Mary.
Aruvippuram
Aruvippuram is a pilgrim centre located in a picturesque
location, 24 kms from Thiruvananthapuram. It is also a
small but lovely picnic spot. The place derives its name
from a stream. A small temple dedicated to Lord Siva was
built here by Sree Narayana Guru, the great Hindu
reformer. This holy shrine attracts a number of devotees
during the 'Sivarathri' festival in March.
Sabarimala
Sabarimala is a renowned pilgrim centre atop the rugged
hills of the Western Ghats. This holy shrine is
dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The sanctum sanctoram nestles
914 m above sea level, amidst the virgin forest
wilderness of the Western Ghats. The Village of
Sabarimala is named after Shabari who did severe penance
in order to meet Rama who granted her wish for her
devotion and faith during her penance. The main
pilgrimage is undertaken between November and January.
Regardless of caste, creed, colour, they wear black
dhotis and carry on their heads, bundles containing
traditional offerings like coconut filled with ghee,
camphor and rice. |
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