Pandavanpara Temple

Pandavanpara Temple (celebrated across Central Travancore as the sacred prehistoric rock cave shrine and Mahabharata exile sanctuary sitting high on the massive granite monolith hill of Pandavanpara), situated just 3 km northeast of Chengannur town in Kerala, is one of the state's most fascinating, panoramic, and spiritually steeped highland heritage destinations.

Rising dramatically over 300 feet above the surrounding emerald paddy plains of the Pamba river basin, this gigantic natural boulder hill ( 'Rock of the Pandavas') is inextricably intertwined with epic Mahabharata folklore, holding ancient rock hewn caves where the five Pandava princes (Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, and Sahadeva) along with Draupadi reportedly sought shelter and conducted secret penance during their period of forest exile (Agyatavasa).

It's the home of the ancient rock cut cave temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva resting inside cavernous granite hollows, the enormous natural stone depression revered by pilgrims as the colossal footprint of the mighty warrior Bhima (Bhimapatham), natural rock cut seats and grinding stone mortars associated with Draupadi's hill dwelling, safe paved rock steps leading to the breezy hill summit offering unobstructed 360 degree panoramas of the meandering Pamba River, coconut orchards, and the distant misty blue silhouettes of the Western Ghats, a peaceful mountain breeze that blows constantly across the sun warmed rocks, and a tranquil woodland ambiance popular with meditation seekers and nature walkers.

It represents a rich epic Mahabharata, cave archaeology, and eco trekking sanctuary where ancient rock dwellings, heroic epic mythology, Pamba river valley panoramas, and quiet hillside devotion unite in Chengannur municipality.

Located in Pandavanpara just 3 km from Chengannur Railway Station (CNGR), 4 km from Chengannur Bhagavathy Temple, 40 km from Alappuzha, 48 km from Kottayam, and 115 km from Cochin International Airport (COK), easily accessible by auto rickshaws, town buses, and a short, easy hilltop walk.

The Mahabharata Exile Caves & Bhima Footprint

The hill features multiple cavernous spaces formed by titanic interlocking granite boulders where the Pandavas stayed during their forest exile.

A prominent indentation on the upper rock platform is venerated as the footprint left by Bhima when he defended the hill from wild demons.

Truth is, exploring these cool granite rock caves while gazing out across the vast green Pamba valley gives a tangible connection to epic lore.

Panoramic 360 Degree Pamba Valley Views

Valley Lookout: The summit offers sweeping vistas spanning the silver curves of the Pamba River, temple gopurams, and distant highland peaks.

Sunset Viewing: Late afternoons bring cool breezes as the sky turns brilliant shades of gold and amber over the Alappuzha lowlands.

Rock Cut Steps & Hilltop Trekking Path

Easy Ascent: Well laid stone steps with side railings make the climb to the top accessible for visitors of all age groups in 10 to 15 minutes.

Meditation Retreat: The quiet stone shelters provide a quiet space for contemplation away from urban commotion.

After exploring the rock caves at Pandavanpara, visit the ancient Chengannur Bhagavathy and Mahadeva Temples, tour the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, or enjoy the riverbanks of Pamba in Kerala.