Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, Sasthamkotta

Sasthamkotta, Kerala

Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, located in Sasthamkotta, is a remarkable testament to the rich blend of cultural heritage and spiritual devotion. With a history that spans centuries, the temple has preserved its original charm while adapting to the evolving times. Its unique architecture reflects the craftsmanship of skilled artisans, while its rituals echo ancient traditions passed down through generations. Visitors are captivated by the intricate carvings, sacred idols, and the serene courtyards that invite both prayer and reflection. This temple has not only served as a centre of worship but also as a cultural hub where stories, art, and traditions thrive. For both devotees seeking divine blessings and heritage enthusiasts exploring India’s spiritual landscape, Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple in Sasthamkotta offers a truly enriching experience. Its legacy also resonates with the grandeur of Historic temples in Kerala.

Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple History and Significance

Shri Dharma Sastha temple is a Hindu temple located at the village Sasthamkotta, Kerala, India. It is surrounded on three sides by the largest freshwater lake of Kerala, Sasthamkotta lake. The temple is well known for the inhabitance of monkeys, believed to be the divine retinue of the prime deity.

The Sasthamcotta temple is one among the five ancient Sastha temples in Kerala - AchanKoil, Aryankavu, Kulathupuzha, Sasthamcotta, and Sabarimala. The concept of Dharma Sastha represents the unison of Vaishnava and Saiva beliefs.

Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple Pooja Timing
Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple Interesting Facts
Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple Nearby Temples
Other Sastha Temples
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Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple Pooja Timing

Pooja Name	Timings
Nirmalya Darshanam	4:30 AM
Usha Pooja	6:00 AM
Ucha Pooja	12:00 PM
Athazha Pooja	7:30 PM

Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple Location Details

How to Reach Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple

By Road:

Sasthamcotta is well-connected by road to major towns in Kerala. State Transport Buses and private taxis operate regularly from cities like Kollam, Trivandrum, and Alappuzha.

By Train:

Nearest railway stations: Kollam Junction (around 30 km) and Karunagappally Railway Station (approximately 18 km). From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Sasthamcotta.

By Air:

Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport (approximately 95 km away). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Sasthamcotta via Kollam.

Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple Nearby Temples

Best time to visit (season/months):

October to March is the best time to visit due to pleasant weather. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall and potential travel disruptions.

Other Sastha Temples

Legends Beliefs

The legend of this temple stretches beyond the period of the Ramayana (Treta Yuga). It is believed that Shri Rama, along with his wife Sita, brother Lakshmana, and the whole vaanara sena, visited Sasthamcotta to pay their reverence to Shri Dharma Sastha on their way back to Ayodhya after the victory over Ravana.Shri Rama offered pithru tharpan on the banks of the Sasthamcotta Lake, the water of which is supposed to be identical to Surya Raga Theertha of Manasa Sarovar. Lord Rama then deputed the chief architect of his vanara (monkey) team, Neelan, to serve his host. Neelan is believed to be the predecessor of the prevailing monkey clan in this temple.
Deities and Sub Deities

The presiding deity of the temple is Shri Dharma Sastha, accompanied by his consort Prabha and son Sathyaka.
Offerings

Devotees offer various items to the deity, including flowers, fruits, and traditional sweets. Special poojas and rituals are also conducted as offerings.
Architecture

The temple features Kerala style architecture, characterised by its unique design and structure. The temple is built with traditional materials and follows the architectural norms of Kerala temples.
Festivals

The utsavam lasts for ten days. The flag is hoisted on the first day heralding the utsavam. The utsavam culminates with the ‘araattu’ on ‘Utram’ in the month of Kumbham (February–March). The tenth day hosts the ‘Kettukazhcha’—a procession of various effigies of bullocks, horses, decorated chariots, etc.A number of elephants with their nettipattam (decorative head-dress) also come to the temple to pay reverence to the prime deity, who sits atop a caparisoned elephant at the temple courtyard, escorted with many other decorated elephants.Religious FestivalsThe temple celebrates several religious festivals, including Thiruvonam, Navaratri, Mandala Mahotsav (41 days), Makara Sankrama pooja, Sivaratri, Painkuni Utram, Pathamudayam, and Karkidaka Vavu.
Religious Practices

The temple follows traditional Hindu rituals and practices. Daily poojas and special ceremonies are conducted to honour the deity. Devotees participate in these rituals with great devotion and reverence.

FAQ's

Where is the Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple located?

The Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple is located in Sasthamkotta, Kerala, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Kollam district.

Which God is Sree Dharma Sastha?

Sree Dharma Sastha is a major Hindu deity.

What is the best time to visit Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple?

October to March is the best time to visit due to pleasant weather. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall and potential travel disruptions.

How to reach Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple from near City or Town?

Nearest railway stations: Kollam Junction (around 30 km) and Karunagappally Railway Station (approximately 18 km). From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Sasthamcotta. Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport (approximately 95 km away). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Sasthamcotta via Kollam.