Achankovil is a quiet village in the deep forests of the Western Ghats on the Kollam-Tamil Nadu border.
Known for its serenity and natural beauty, the village is famous for the Lord Ayyappa Temple, with its idol believed to have been consecrated by Lord Parasurama. Beside the temple are the stunning Manalar Falls and the Kumbhavurutty Falls.
Another highlight of the place is the river Achankovil that originates from Thooval Mala and passes through the village. For first-time visitors, a journey through the wilderness covering the Avanappara Tribal Colony and Chenkotta will be a memorable one. If you are lucky enough, you can catch a glimpse of an elephant or even a herd!
Achankovil is not a tourist destination. For persons who would prefer a detour from the mundane city life and escape into the wild, there’s no better choice.
Buses can be boarded from either Pathanapuram and Punalur.
