Achankovil Sree Dharmasastha Temple - Lord Ayyappa

Achankovil is a small village in the deep Western Ghats in Kerala, bordered by Tamil Nadu. Achankovil Sree Dharmasastha Temple is one of the most famous temples of lord Ayyappa and is believed to have a statue consecrated by lord Parasurama himself. It is located about 1000 metres above sea level. The sandal paste given as the offering to the devotees here has the property to cure poisonous snake bites. According to Hindu belief, the Planet Saturn has much effect on humans and bad effects known as 'Sani Dosham'. The ill effects of the planet to the humans will be removed or the power of its bad effects will be lessened by praying and worshiping this Dharmasastha. Lord Ayyappa is considered as the God governing planet Saturn. He is depicted as a family man along with his two wives Purna and Pushkala. The location of the temple brings peace to the visitors. Unlike other Ayyappa temples, ladies of all ages are allowed to enter the shrine. Because of its geography, the temple follows the rituals of Tamil tradition.