Erumeli is situated very close to the Western Ghats and experiences a pleasant climate. It is surrounded by the districts of Idukki, Kollam, Kottayam and Alappuzha, which are unique in their own their way, in the perspective of a tourist. It experiences significant rainfall and has a diverse flora and fauna.
Pilgrim
Erumeli Vavar Mosque
About Erumeli Vavar Mosque
Vavarpalli (mosque in Malayalam is ‘palli’) is located in Erumeli, which is a holy place for both Hindus and Muslims. The mosque is situated very close to an Ayappa temple which is visited by throngs of people, irrespective of their caste and religion. People who visit Sabarimala would definitely visit the mosque dedicated to Vavarswami, before proceeding on their journey.
The mosque has an imposing structure which large domes and a number of minarets. The mosque is visited by a lot of tourists for its architectural magnificence and simplicity. The mosque has a Muslim saint for performing the daily rites, since Vavar followed the religion of Islam. The mosque doesn’t have a statue, but has a stone slab with inscriptions on it, just like how other masjids have. The walls are covered with green silk cloth and there is also a sword which belonged to Vavar, symbolising his valour.
The tourist department of Kerala has listed the Erumeli Vavar Mosque as one of the most important religious centres.
History or Myth
There are various legends surrounding the existence of Erumeli Vavar mosque. One of the famous legend is that Vavar arrived at Kerala in a pirate ship to rob the region. Lord Ayappa engaged him to a fight and won it. Amazed by the young man’s talent, he joined forces with him and helped him win wars at various fronts. He became a close associate and ardent devotee of Lord Ayappa. It is believed that Lord Ayappa appeared in the dreams of the king and instructed him to build a mosque for Vavar.
Tips or precaution
- Offerings are green pepper, clarified ghee, sandal paste, etc.
- Visit during the end of the year (or the beginning of the year) to feel the spirit of the place.
How to reach
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BY AIR
Erumeli Vavar Mosque is only 111 Kilometres away from the Cochin International airport. -
BY TRAIN
You can reach by train from any part of India. Erumeli is situated very close to a large number of railway station, some of them being Kottayam Railway Station, Tiruvulla Railway Station, Chengannur Railway Station and Kollam Juction Railway Station. -
BY ROAD
Kerala State Road Transport Corporation has a large number of buses plying between Erumeli and other important districts of Kerala.
Highlights or specialities
- Situated very close to Sabarimala
- Tolerant towards other religions