Arakkulam Sree Dharma Sastha Temple – A Sacred Echo of Sabarimala in Idukki

Location

District: Idukki, Kerala
Village: Arakkulam
The temple is nestled in a serene, hilly region influenced by both Kerala and Tamil Nadu cultures. It is managed by the Travancore Devaswom Board.

Presiding Deity

Main Deity: Lord Dharma Sastha (Ayyappa), in a seated posture
The idol is a sila vigraham (stone idol), believed to embody the divine presence revealed to a priest from Karott Madam, who once served at Sabarimala.

Temple Significance

The temple's origin is tied to a miraculous vision: when the aging priest could no longer travel to Sabarimala, Lord Sastha appeared in a dream and promised His presence at the priest’s ancestral home.
The next morning, a vibrating arrow was found embedded in the courtyard, marking the divine spot where the idol was installed.
The name Arakkulam comes from the priest’s illam (ancestral home), which had a large granary (ara) and a pond (kulam).

Subshrines and Temple Layout

Twin Sreekovils: One for Lord Sastha and one for Lord Shiva, both facing east
Subshrines include:

History & Legends

Origin Story: The temple traces its roots to a mystical experience of a priest from Karott Madam, who served at Sabarimala. In his old age, unable to travel, he prayed for Lord Sastha’s presence at home.
Divine Revelation: Sastha appeared in a dream, promising to manifest at the priest’s illam. The next morning, a vibrating arrow was found embedded in the courtyard — a divine sign.
Installation: A stone idol (sila vigraham) was consecrated at that spot, marking the beginning of the temple. The name Arakkulam derives from the priest’s home, which had a granary (ara) and pond (kulam).
Sabarimala Connection: The temple maintains ritual ties with Sabarimala, including receiving the Aratt flag during its annual festival.

Architecture

Twin Sreekovils: Rare layout with two sanctums — one for Lord Dharma Sastha and one for Lord Shiva, both facing east.
Pradakshina Path: Encircles the temple with shrines for Ganapati, Malikappurathamma, Nagas, and Karinaga Yakshi.
Deepastambham & Nandi: Shiva’s shrine includes a separate Nandi and lamp pillar, enhancing the Shaiva presence.
Kerala Style: The temple follows traditional Kerala architecture — tiled roof, granite base, and wooden superstructure with intricate carvings.

Rituals

Daily Poojas: Traditional Kerala-style worship for Lord Dharma Sastha and Lord Shiva, including Usha Pooja, Ucha Pooja, and Athazha Pooja.
Special Offerings:

Neeranjanam (ghee lamp offering)
Archana and Pushpanjali
Guruthi for Malikappurathamma — performed with deep reverence, often after rituals at the nearby Nettikkatt Devi temple.

Prasadam Distribution: Includes Appam, Aravana, and Chandanam (sandal paste), reflecting Sabarimala traditions.

Festivals

Mandala Pooja (Nov–Dec): Ayyappa devotees observe 41-day vratham and visit the temple as part of their spiritual journey.
Annual Festival (Jan–Feb):

Lasts 7 days, culminating in Arattu (holy bath) ritual.
The Aratt flag from Sabarimala is ceremonially brought to Arakkulam, symbolizing divine connection.
Includes Pallivetta, Kalabhabhishekam, Utsavabali, and Ezhunnallathu (processions).

Sivaratri: Special abhishekams and night-long bhajans in the Shiva shrine.
Other Observances: Vishu, Thiruvonam, and Navaratri are marked with poojas and cultural programs.

Beliefs

Divine Presence: Devotees believe Lord Sastha personally chose this location, making it a spiritually potent site.
Sabarimala Alternative: For elderly or those unable to travel, Arakkulam is seen as a Sannidhanam (sacred substitute).
Healing and Protection: Worship of Karinaga Yakshi and Naga Thara is believed to remove doshas and bring family blessings.
Malikappurathamma’s Guruthi: Considered powerful for resolving ancestral and feminine energy-related issues.

Temple Hours

Morning: 5:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Evening: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Timings may extend during festivals like Mandala Pooja and Annual Utsavam. It’s best to check locally during peak seasons.

Getting Here

Nearest Town: Thodupuzha (approx. 10 km)
By Road: Accessible via NH 85 and local roads from Thodupuzha, Muvattupuzha, or Idukki.
By Rail: Nearest major station is Ernakulam Junction (approx. 70–80 km)
By Air: Cochin International Airport (approx. 85 km)
Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available from Thodupuzha. Buses may run to nearby stops like Arakkulam junction.

Tips

Footwear: Leave outside the temple premises; carry socks if visiting in hot weather.
Dress Code: Traditional attire preferred — mundu or saree. Avoid western wear inside sanctum areas.
Offerings: Carry coconut, ghee lamps, and flowers. Guruthi offerings for Malikappurathamma are popular.
Photography: Restricted inside sanctum; ask temple staff before clicking.
Language: Malayalam is widely spoken; basic Tamil and English may help.