Sasthamcotta Dharma Sastha Temple – Famous Ayyappa Shrine in Kerala
Situated in the quaint village of Sasthamkotta, in the Kollam district of Kerala, India, the Shri Dharma Sastha Temple is a popular Hindu shrine dedicated to Shri Dharma Sastha (Lord Ayyappa). Here the main deity, Shri Dharma Sastha, is accompanied by his consort ‘Prabha’ and son ‘Sathyaka.’ Alongside the main deity, Lord Ganesha is also worshipped at this temple.
Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple - Kerala
Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple is one of the five ancient Sastha temples in Kerala, along with Achankoil, Aryankavu, Kulathupuzha, and Sabarimala. It beautifully embodies the harmony of Vaishnava and Saiva beliefs in the concept of Dharma Sastha.
The beautiful temple, built in the distinctive Kerala style of architecture, echoes with devotion and reverence. It is surrounded on three sides by the expansive Sasthamkotta Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Kerala. This temple is renowned for its unique residents – monkeys, believed to be the divine retinue of the primary deity.
Legend has it that the temple's roots stretch back to the time of Ramayana (Treta Yuga). Lord Rama, after his victory over Ravana, visited Sasthamcotta with Sita, Lakshmana, and the vaanara sena on their return journey to Ayodhya, to offer their respects to Shri Dharma Sastha. Rama performed ‘Pithru Tharpan’ on the banks of Sasthamcotta Lake, believed to have water identical to Surya Raga Theertha of Manasa Sarovar. As a gesture of gratitude, Lord Rama appointed Neelan, the chief architect of his vanara (monkey) team, to serve the host at Sasthamcotta. Neelan is revered as the progenitor of the present monkey clan that inhabits this sacred temple, marking a lineage that echoes through the ages.
Entry/Darshan Time
5 AM to 11:30 AM
5 PM to 8 PM
Specialty
Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple is one of the five ancient Sastha temples in Kerala, along with Achankoil, Aryankavu, Kulathupuzha, and Sabarimala.
The Temple is famous for its resident monkeys, believed to be the sacred attendants of the main deity.
Dress Code
It's advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, preferably in traditional attire, while visiting Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple.
Festivals
Utsavam (Annual Festival)
Thiruvonam
Navratri
Mandala Mahotsav
Makara Sankrama pooja
Sivaratri
Painkuni Utram
Pathamudayam
Karkidaka Vavu
Best Time to Visit
Throughout the year
How to reach
By Air : Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is the nearest airport, 87.5 Km away from Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple. From the airport, you can avail of public transport or get a cab/ taxi to reach the temple.
By Train :The nearest railway station is Kollam Railway Station, 29.5 Km away from Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Road :Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.