Achankovil Dharmasastha Temple

Featured in this video is Achankovil Sri Dharmasastha Temple in Kollam district, Kerala State, India. Located in a picturesque spot, it is one of the oldest temples in Kerala. This temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa or Lord Sastha is located amidst dense forest and is around 950 m high from the sea level.

During the Sabarimala pilgrimage, devotees also visit this temple to offer their prayers. It is believed that the idol of this temple was consecrated by Sage Parasurama. On both sides of the idol, Poorna and Pushkala, the consorts of Lord Sastha are also installed.

One can see sandal paste in the left hand of Lord Sastha’s idol, which is believed to be a powerful antidote to snake bites.