Manimandapam

Manimandapam has a very significant role in the Sabarimala temple lore. The belief is that Lord Ayyappa rested here after defeating the 'Marava Army'. The place is sacred because this is where he entered a deep meditative trance. It is said that one of the three tantric circles he worshipped during this meditation is situated here, with the other two at the Sannidhanam and the Pathinettampadi. According to certain others, this is the point in the middle of the forest where an arrow released by Lord Ayyappa landed, which he subsequently chose as his abode.  His father, the King of Pandalam, ordered to build the temple at this spot. 

Manimandapam is close to the sanctum sanctorum of the temple of Malikappurathamma. The walls of the Manimandapam are covered with brass plates on which there are embossed stories related to Lord Ayyappa.  The Manimandapam remains open only for six days during the Makara vilakku festival.  The final worship and concluding offerings are also done here.