Aryankavu Sastha Temple

Aryankavu Sastha Temple is a prominent Ayyappa shrine at Aryankavu in Punalur taluk, Kollam district, Keralam, near the Tamil Nadu border. DTPC Kollam identifies it as one of Keralam's traditional 108 Sastha shrines. The deity is represented as a youthful Ayyappan, and the approach to the sanctum includes 18 sacred steps, recalling an important feature of Sabarimala.

The temple preserves murals of Hindu deities and combines architectural and ritual influences from both Keralam and Tamil traditions, reflecting its borderland location. Festivals such as Pandiyan Mudippu, Trikkalyanam and Kumbhabhishekam are important, and the Sourashtra community has a special association with the ceremonial marriage tradition connected with Pushkaladevi. Mandala season attracts groups of pilgrims to Aryankavu.

Travellers should remember that this is an active pilgrimage centre with specific entry customs, and should follow current temple guidance on dress, access and ritual practice.