Bangalore to Pathanamthitta Road Trip: Into Kerala’s Spiritual & Natural Heartland

Welcome to Pathanamthitta, the spiritual soul of Kerala and the gateway to the Sabarimala pilgrimage. Known for its verdant forests, sacred temples, eco-tourism spots, and rich traditions, Pathanamthitta is a serene offbeat destination that blends spirituality with nature. Perfect for travelers looking to explore unexplored Kerala!

Route Details

By Road:

• Distance: Approx. 670–690 kilometers
• Driving Time: 11–12 hours
• Suggested Route:
• Bangalore → Salem → Dindigul → Kumily → Vandiperiyar → Pathanamthitta
• (via NH44, SH43, SH9 – scenic route through the ghats and spice plantations)

Alternate Route (faster):

Bangalore → Salem → Coimbatore → Palakkad → Thrissur → Chengannur → Pathanamthitta

(via NH544 and SH7)

By Train or Flight:

• Nearest Railway Stations: Chengannur (30 km), Thiruvalla (28 km), or Kollam (66 km)
• Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (~115 km)

Places to Cover on the Way:

• Kumily/Thekkady (if taking hill route): Spice gardens and forest views
• Vagamon or Kuttikanam: Ideal for a break amidst tea plantations and pine valleys
• Kottayam & Chengannur: Religious towns and peaceful riversides

Best Time to Visit:

• October to March: Ideal climate for visiting temples, forests, and rivers
• June to September (Monsoon): The area turns lush but roads can be slippery
• April–May: Hot but good for budget travelers and spiritual visits

Attractions and Activities in Pathanamthitta

Temples & Spiritual Sites:

• Sabarimala Temple: Famous hilltop shrine of Lord Ayyappa, attracting millions
• Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple: Known for the Aranmula Boat Race & ancient mirror craft
• Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple: Oldest temple architecture with cave shrines
• Malayalappuzha Devi Temple: A powerful goddess temple known for its peaceful vibes
• Thazhoor Bhagavathy Temple: Traditional temple on the banks of the river

Nature, Rivers & Backwaters:

• Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls: Majestic waterfall surrounded by forest
• Gavi Eco-Tourism: Dense forest, jeep safaris, and rare wildlife inside Periyar Tiger Reserve
• Konni Elephant Camp: Oldest elephant training center with baby elephants
• Maniyar Dam: A beautiful offbeat dam surrounded by green hills
• Achankovil River: Serene river flowing through much of the district

Culture & Festivals:

• Aranmula Boat Race (Uthrittathi Boat Race): Celebrated with snake boats on the Pampa River
• Maramon Convention: Asia’s largest Christian gathering on the sandbeds of the Pamba
• Craft Villages: Aranmula for mirror-making (Aranmula Kannadi) and mural painting

Local Cuisine and Dining:

• Must Try: Kerala Sadya, Fish Curry, Tapioca with beef/fish, Palappam
• Specialties: Local toddy shops serving spicy Kerala meals
• Local Eateries: Indian Coffee House, Nalanda Hotel, Sree Muruga Bhavan

Accommodation Options:

• Budget & Pilgrim Stays: Many budget lodges and pilgrim stays near Sabarimala base towns
• Mid-Range: Resorts near Konni and eco-stays around Gavi
• Unique Stay: Houseboat or riverside villa around Aranmula or Thiruvalla

Safety and Travel Tips:

• Mountain roads around Gavi & Vandiperiyar need careful driving
• Respect temple dress codes and spiritual customs, especially near Sabarimala
• Advance bookings recommended during Sabarimala season (Nov–Jan)

Budgeting:

• Fuel: ₹4000–₹5000 round trip
• Stay: ₹1000–₹5000 per night
• Food: ₹300–₹600/day
• Safari/Boating at Gavi: Approx. ₹1500–₹2000 per person with forest department

Personal Experience:

Pathanamthitta offers a side of Kerala untouched by mainstream tourism. Whether it’s the calm of riverbanks, the sound of temple bells, or an elephant’s trumpet from the forests — this trip brings soul and scenery together. A perfect spiritual and nature retreat for road trippers!

Photo Highlights:

• Snake boats racing on the Pampa
• Baby elephants at Konni
• Sabarimala hill temple view
• Misty green Gavi forest trails

Responsible Travel:

• Avoid plastic and littering near temples and rivers
• Support local artisans (like Aranmula mirror crafters)
• Travel responsibly in eco-sensitive forest areas (Gavi, Periyar)

Contact Us:

Planning a spiritual or nature getaway with your group?

T2TClub will help you with carpool options, temple routes, eco-stays, and forest entry bookings.