The temple is located at a height of 950m in the forested mountain range of Sahyadri. The idol of the deity is about one and a half feet tall and is constituted of an alloy of five metals. The present temple was built in 1951 after the original temple was devastated in a fire. It is open for all, irrespective of religion, caste or creed. But young girls and women between 15 and 50 are not supposed to visit the temple as Ayappa is a celibate.

There are 18 steps that lead to the temple. They are believed to be the steps to the heaven. Pilgrims have to observe strict vows for a certain period (generally 41 days) before taking these 18 steps to the temple. The vows include dressing in black, blue or ochre, wearing a rudraksha or tulsi garland, remaining a celibate, eating only vegetarian food.

It is the most visited temple in India though the temple is open only during certain times of the year. The temple is opened for 41 days from mid-November to the end of December, during Makara Sankranti (mid-Jan), Vishu (mid-April), Pratishtha Day (May-June), and during the Onam festival (August-September).

Thekkady 60km from Idukki

Thekkady is renowned for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The wildlife sanctuary with its pleasant landscape, cool climate and a wide variety of flora and fauna is very popular among the tourists. Nature is at its best near the Periyar Lake. Boating in the lake is the best way to see animals in their natural habitat. Along the lake, several picnic spots have been developed, some of which are Edappalayam, Manakudi and Thannikudi. Tourist bungalows, rest houses, trenches and watchtowers have been constructed at these places for the benefit of visitors.