The short answer
Erumely: Petta Temples and Vavar Mosque: what visitors should know first
Visit if you want to understand the pilgrimage's shared tradition or are starting the long Erumely route. It is in Kottayam district, a drive from the Sabarimala area. Time it for Pettathullal if you want the dance, but expect heavy crowds.
History and context
The story behind Erumely: Petta Temples and Vavar Mosque
Wikipedia notes the Erumely panchayat was formed in 1953. It describes the town as the Gateway to Sabarimala and a land of religious harmony. A Sabarimala International Airport has been proposed at Cheruvally estate but, per Wikipedia, is unbuilt pending a court dispute.
Useful facts
Erumely: Petta Temples and Vavar Mosque facts at a glance
- Location
- Erumely, Kottayam district; about 49 km east of Kottayam
- Faith
- Hindu and Muslim
- Deity/dedication
- Dharmasastha (Petta temple); Vavar (mosque)
- Visitor note
- Remove footwear; dress modestly; crowds peak in season
- Ritual
- Pettathullal, held in the Mandalam-Makaravilakku season
Why it matters
Why Erumely: Petta Temples and Vavar Mosque is worth your time
The Vavar mosque beside a Hindu temple is the best-known sign of the Ayyappa tradition's shared character. Kerala Tourism describes Vavar as a Muslim warrior and friend of Ayyappan, and pilgrims often visit the mosque alongside the temple.
Pettathullal commemorates the victory over the demoness Mahishi, and the Wikipedia account describes the mosque's welcome and escort as part of the ritual itself. It is a rare example of two faiths woven into one rite.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Petta temple and mosque
The Dharmasastha temple and the Vavar mosque stand side by side.
- 02
Pettathullal
A painted-body procession from two groups, honouring the Mahishi legend.
- 03
Gateway to the forest route
The long traditional trek to Pamba begins here.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Erumely sits in the southeast of Kottayam district on the Manimala River. Pilgrims gather here before starting the long forest route to Pamba. The Petta Sree Dharmasastha temple and the Vavar mosque stand side by side.
During the season the Pettathullal is held. Two groups, from Ambalappuzha and Alangad, dance in painted bodies and tribal-style dress, carrying arrows and maces. Pilgrims visit the mosque, are welcomed by its committee and circle it, then walk about half a kilometre to the Valiyambalam temple, bathing in the Peeruthodu afterwards.
If you come outside the season, expect a quieter small town. The town is known as the Gateway to Sabarimala and a place of religious harmony, as Wikipedia describes it.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Dress modestly and remove footwear
- Check Pettathullal dates before planning
- Allow for heavy crowds in season
- Keep valuables secure in the procession
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Erumely, Kottayam district, about 49 km east of Kottayam
- Time needed
- Half a day; a full day around Pettathullal
- Best time
- Mandalam-Makaravilakku season for Pettathullal; other months for a quiet visit
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Mostly flat streets and short walks between the Petta and Valiyambalam; the heat and crowds in season are the challenge. Shaded rests are limited.
- Tickets and access
- No tickets; shrines and the mosque follow their own customs. Remove footwear, dress modestly and follow rules at each place of worship. Pettathullal draws large crowds and access is controlled.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Erumely: Petta Temples and Vavar Mosque
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices are live on the partner site.
Travelling with parents?
Mostly flat streets and short walks between the Petta and Valiyambalam; the heat and crowds in season are the challenge. Shaded rests are limited.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Why is there a mosque beside the temple?
Vavar is described in tradition as a Muslim friend of Ayyappan, and pilgrims visit his mosque at Erumely.
What is Pettathullal?
A ritual dance in Dhanu month during the season, by groups from Ambalappuzha and Alangad.
Is Erumely in the same district as Sabarimala?
No. Sabarimala is in Pathanamthitta; Erumely is in Kottayam district.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
