Biodiversity
Sasthamcotta, the headquarters of Kunnathur Taluk in Kollam district, is a region of great historical and cultural significance.
History Behind the Name
The name “Sasthamcotta” is believed to have originated from the meaning “the fort where Lord Dharma Sastha resides.” The history of this ancient land is closely associated with the historic Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple. According to local legends, Lord Rama visited this place during his search for Sita in the Treta Yuga and performed ancestral rites here on his return journey after defeating Ravana.
Sasthamcotta: Home to Kerala’s Freshwater Lake
Sasthamcotta is a beautiful village in Kollam district. Rich in natural beauty and ancient traditions, the region is particularly known for the Sasthamcotta Freshwater Lake.
Cultural and Natural Features
- Sasthamcotta Lake: The Sasthamcotta Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Kerala, is the most significant geographical feature of the region. In 2002, it was designated as a Ramsar Site of international importance.
- Temple Monkeys: The troop of monkeys associated with the temple is an integral part of the cultural history of Sasthamcotta. According to local belief, a monkey named Neelan, belonging to Lord Rama’s monkey army, stayed here to serve Lord Sastha.
- Education: The establishment of Devaswom Board College in 1964 brought significant changes to the educational history and development of the region.
