Sabarimala temple in Pathanamthitta is one of the most famous Sastha temples in India itself. Located in the hilly area of the Western Ghats, beside the river Pamba, in the midst of 18 hills, the very environment of the temple is awe-inspiring. 

It is believed that it was sage Parasurama who established the temple, after reclaiming Kerala from the sea. Lord Ayyappa or Sree Dharma Sastha is the main deity of the temple. 

The pilgrim season called Mandalakaalam begins in November and lasts till January and Mandalapooja is observed during this period. The major festival is Makaravilakku which is celebrated in January. The temple remains open on Vishu and the first days of every Malayalam month. Women after the menarche and before menopause are not allowed to visit the temple.