Kulathupuzha Sastha Temple

Kulathupuzha Sastha Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shasta (Ayyappan) in his child form (Bala Sastha), located in Kulathupuzha village in Kollam district, Kerala. It is one of the five important Sastha temples in Kerala and one among 108 Sastha shrines. The temple is situated on the banks of Kulathupuzha River, surrounded by dense forests, and is known for its unique Meenoottu fish feeding ritual.

Visitors can expect a serene temple environment set along the riverbanks with traditional Kerala architecture. The main attraction is darshan of the Bala Sastha deity and participation in the Meenoottu ritual where devotees feed sacred fish in the temple pond. The temple compound offers peaceful surroundings with views of the river and forest landscape. Men must remove upper garments before entering the main sanctum.

According to legend, the temple is one of the five Sastha temples founded by Parashurama. It is believed that Lord Parashurama installed the idol after the temple was built by the Raja of Pandalam, though the idol was discovered by a Brahmin from Kottarakkara many years later. The temple has historical ties with the Kingdom of Travancore and was earlier under the possession of the king of Kottarakkara before being handed over to the Travancore Devaswom Board.

The temple holds significant religious importance as one of the 108 Sastha shrines in Kerala and one of the five major Sastha temples. The deity is worshipped in the form of Bala Sastha (child Ayyappan). The temple experiences heavy pilgrimage traffic during Mandalam period when devotees visit for Sabarimala pilgrimage. The annual Vishu Mahotsavam festival in April-May attracts thousands of devotees.