Located in Thrissur, Kerala, the Arattupuzha Temple popularly goes by the name "Sree Sastha Temple". Dedicated to the presiding deity, Lord Ayyappa, this temple is believed to be as old as 3000 years. The deity at this temple is said to be Lord Rama's master, the divine Guru Vasishta. One of the largest Pooram celebrations in all of Thrissur takes place annually at the Arattupuzha Temple from the past decades. The primary attraction here is the Arattupuzha Pooram Festival celebrated once each year which clocks in tens and thousands of devotees from a variety of states in April and May.
One of the world’s most ancient festivals, Deva Mela (festival of gods and goddesses), is celebrated annually for seven days at the Sastha Temple. What makes this festival a world-famous attraction is the ritual wherein more than 41 deities of various temples are brought to the Deva Mela festival for cleansing every year. More than 70 decorated elephants are also accommodated during the event.
Arattupuzha Pooram is the biggest celebration at the Arattupuzha Temple each year. It is a 7-day event, but the festive spirits are at the peak during the last two days. The deities brought from various temples for worshipping make for spectacular visuals. All the ceremonies come to an end with the Arattu Ritual, cleansing of the idols.
Prathishta dinam, Navarathri Festival, Illam Nira and Desavilakku Festival are some of the other popular festivals celebrated at this temple.