Overview
Pathanamthitta, known as the Pilgrim Capital of Kerala, serves as the gateway to Sabarimala, the world's largest Hindu pilgrimage centre attracting over 50 million devotees annually. The town sits in the laps of the Western Ghats surrounded by lush rainforests, rubber plantations, and wood industries.
Festivals · History · Nature
Before you go
Language
Malayalam is primary; Tamil widely understood; English commonly spoken due to numerous convent schools; Kannada, Telugu, and Hindi understood near Sabarimala.
Tourist information
District Tourist Office: +91-(0)468-232-2657; KTDC Tourist Reception: +91-(0)468-232-6409; DTPC Tourism Cell: +91-(0)468-222-9952.
Transport
Local buses are the most economical option; auto-rickshaws are cheap but negotiate fares in advance. Share taxis serve pilgrims.
Weather
Receives extremely heavy rainfall nine months yearly; mild summers with cold nights; fog common December-January.