Sivagiri Mutt - monument to a social reformer

The Sivagiri Mutt, founded by the great reformer and philosopher Sree Narayana Guru (1856 - 1928) is located at Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram district. Also situated here is the Samadhi or final resting place of the Guru.

Built in 1904, the Mutt is situated on top of a hill. It is the headquarters of Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Sangham (SNDP), a social organisation founded by the Guru to propagate his ideas.

The annual Sivagiri pilgrimage is carried out from 30th December to 1st January. Colourful processions, debates and seminars, public meetings, cultural shows, community feasts, group weddings and rituals mark the celebrations. Thousands throng here on this occasion.

The Guru Deva Jayanti, or birthday of the Guru and the Samadhi day are celebrated every year in August and September respectively.