Judge Pathanamthitta’s tourism potential solely based on its size—it is Kerala’s smallest district—and you would be missing out on a unique South Indian heritage experience. This hilly town is a prominent pilgrimage center, with ancient temples scattered amidst a scenic terrain of lush rivers and coconut groves. The temple of Sabarimala remains sacred nationwide. Beyond the religious shrines, the heritage experience also continues in Pathanamthitta’s thriving arts and culture. Cultural training centers for Padayani (a famous folk dance) and Aranmula Kannadi (handcrafted metal mirrors) has been prospering here more than any other place in South India. See if you can visit Vaasthu Vidya Gurukulam, a center of classical Indian architecture, particularly ‘Vaastu Vidya’. More than half of Pathanamthitta’s total land continues to be forested. The fact that it is in Kerala makes spectacular sightseeing such as mountain ranges, forest reserves and waterfalls an obvious part of your journey.
One of South India’s most significant Hindu religious sites, Sabarimala Temple is present about 72km away from the town of Pathanamthitta. The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Ayyappa. This site is known to celebrate a number of local festivals, including 'Makaravilakku' (mid-January), 'Mandalapooja' (between November and December), and 'Vishu Vilakku' (April). The temple of Sabarimala is located in mountainous terrain with thick forest cover. Tourists can also reach this site from neighboring Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram.
The little town of Aranmula is known for a unique way in which it celebrates the annual festival of Onam. Arrive here during the festival time and you will see the locals participating in Aranmula Vallamkali, a form of boat racing with long snake boats containing many rowers, singers, and helmsman. Don’t forget to buy beautiful handcrafted metal mirrors called 'Aranmula Kannadi' that are created at this village.
Head to Vaasthu Vidya Gurukulam to experience the preserved art form of classical mural paintings, apart from Vaastu Vidya that it is famous for.
Take a guided tour of Konni Forest Reserve for its lush plantations and elephant training center. The spectacular Perunthenaruvi Waterfall can be reached after a convenient bus ride from Kollam.
Large fleets of taxis and private buses ply in the city. They can be easily rented for sightseeing around Pathanamthitta. A network of auto rickshaws will be the cheapest way to cover short routes.
On a daily basis there are approximately 75 flights that operate at Trivandrum International Airport.Air India Express, IndiGo and Air India are the most popular airline brands that fly frequently to this airport.
By road Pathanamthitta is surrounded by Chengannur, Kilikkollur, Kottayam which are 12.73 km, 27.42 km, 28.58 km away respectively. These places are ideal spots for people to plan their short weekend break.
Pathanamthitta has a total of 9 hotels.There are 9 hotels in Pathanamthitta with the popular ones being Mannaas Veedu Homestay, Hotel Wyte Portico etc.