Erumeli is the biggest pilgrim center in
Kottayam District. There is an ancient temple, dedicated to
Lord Ayyappa. An ancient mosque dedicated to Vavar, the friend of Lord Ayyappa, is also located nearby. During the festival seasons at
Sabarimala, lakhs of pilgrims arrive here on their way to the Ayyappa shrine. Erumeli is famous for Pettathullal, symbolizing the slaying of Mahishi by Lord Ayyappa, marking the victory of good over evil. Thousands of devotees arrive to participate in the thullal, the famous groups being the Ambalappuzha and Alangad groups. Before the devotees start Pettathullal, they offer prayers at the mosque of Vavar. Erumeli Pettathullal is a unique symbol of Hindu-Muslim religious harmony and co-operation.
