You may travel about 4 kilometers from Varkala town to get to Sivagiri Mutt. One of the most well-known pilgrimage sites in Kerala. The Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham, an association of the disciples and followers of the renowned reformer Sree Narayana Guru, also has its headquarters there. It is one of the must Places to visit in Varkala.
The Sivagiri Mutt is the only charming holy site in the Varkala tour package. It is on a high platform and spread out over 200 acres of rocky terrain. Over the years, it has given thousands of individuals spiritual sustenance. Sree Narayana Guru chose the Sivagiri Hills, where the Sivagiri Mutt is. He is the one to establish the commune after falling in love with the expansive beauty and ambiance of Varkala.
One caste, one religion, and one God are all included in the teachings of the Guru. The Guru's students and devotees at the Sivagiri Mutt operate the Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham headquarters. The Guru's Samadhi is located at this pilgrimage site, along with a primary school built to break down caste barriers.
History of Sivagiri Mutt
Sree Narayana Guru is a fervent admirer of Varkala's natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. He erected a hermitage on the summit of Sivagiri Hill in the year 1904, which later developed into a significant pilgrimage site. Later, the Guru was given Sivagiri Hill by the Travancore State Government. Along with this, a few neighbors in the area gave him land as well. Sivagiri became the focal point of the Sree Narayana Movements as a result.
Festivals
At Sivagiri Mutt, people celebrate Guru's birthday and Samadhi Day with great significance in August/September. On the occasion of Gurudeva Jayanthi, the Guru's birthday, vibrant processions, discussions, seminars, open forums, and cultural performances take place. Thousands of followers march in the procession while dressed in yellow.
The Sivagiri pilgrimage, which is observed from December 30 to January 1, is another significant celebration in this area. At the Guru's Samadhi, where he spread the idea of "One Caste, One Religion, and One God," thousands of pilgrims dressed in yellow clothing now congregate from all regions of Kerala.