Aranmula; Land of Metal Mirrors and Snake Boats

Aranmula, a backwater tourist destination in South India, which has a magnetic charm, is famous for its snake boat races and mirrors. Enjoy the deep green luxuriant vegetation, chirping of birds and the splashing sounds of oars of the canoes and houseboats.

Located close to Thiruvananthapuram, this picturesque tourist destination is bordered by hills on one side and sacred River Pampa on the other side.

Bask in the warm sun and admire the floating lilies in the backwaters. Just lay back and enjoy the beauty of the simple village life.

One of the most important tourist attractions here is the Aranmula boat race, held during the harvest festival of Onam. Enjoy the elegantly decorated snake boats moving through the serene waters of River Pampa. Just watch the more than 100 oars men splashing their oars.

The Parthasarathy temple, an ancient temple located here, is also another attraction. This temple is famous for its murals, which were carved out during the 18th century.

Another great attraction of Aranmula is the Aranmula Kannadi (mirror). This metal mirror is notable for its secretive construction. Only the local craftsmen of Aranmula are exponents in making these mirrors, which reflects image from upper surface of reflecting material, where in Glass mirror image is reflected from bottom layer where the mercury is pasted. These metal mirrors are also a reflection of a rich cultural as well as metallurgical heritage of a golden past. Well, an eighteen-inch tall Aranmula Metal Mirror adores the British Museum in London, which shows its uniqueness.

Aranmula is about 16 km from Pathanamthitta district. It is preferable to stay in Pathanamthitta, where you can come across moderate hotels.

Aranmula is well connected by road to Pathanamthitta. The nearest airports are the Nedumbassery International Airport in Kochi and the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. The nearest railway station is at Thiruvalla.