Erumeli Sree Dharma Sastha Temple
The Temple is also an important meeting place for Sabarimala pilgrims. Erumely Ayyappa temple is 28 km from Pamba, 58 km from Kumarakom. The name Erumely is derived from Erumakolli (‘killed the buffalo’).
Legend has it that Lord Ayyappa killed ‘Eruma’ in this place on the way to collect a tiger’s milk. ‘Eruma’ means buffalo in Malayalam and hence the name extract ‘erumakolli’.
There are two temples in Erumely town. This temple is known as Valiyambalam and the other one is Kochambalam. Both the temples are situated within 0.5 km (0.31 mi). The famous Erumely Pettathullal during Sabarimala pilgrimage is performed near the Valiyambalam and Kochambalam. The Erumely 'Vavar masjid' is also located near to the temple. Pilgrims have the necessary facilities like accommodation, food and water at this temple, provided by Travancore Devaswom Board. 'Tazhmon Mutt' holds the tantric rights of the temple.
Location
Erumeli
Main Deity
Lord Ayyappa
Other Deities
Vavar Swamy (the Muslim lieutenant of Lord Ayyappa), Lord Ganesha, Lord Murugan.
Festivals
The 10-day Annual Festival is celebrated in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February).
Main Offerings
Neeranjanam, Ellu Payasam, Paanakam, Muzhukkappu, Pushpaabhishekam & Kalabhaabhishekam.
How To Reach
By Air: Kochi International Airport is situated 108 KM from the temple.
By Rail: Kottayam Railway Station is situated 49.3 KM from the Temple.
By Road: Thiruvalla KSRTC Bus Stand is situated 39.7 KM from the Temple.