Pathanamthitta district is known as the Headquarters of Pilgrimage Tourism, of the Kerala State. Situated near the Western Ghats and bordered by the hills, Pathanamthitta district is a treat to eyes with its vast unending stretches of forests, rivers and rural landscapes. The smallest of Kerala districts, situated in the southern region of Kerala, Pathanamthitta has nearly half of its total area under forest cover. It is the pilgrim center of Kerala, renowned for the shrine of Lord Ayappa in the Sabari Hills, drawing millions of devotees from near and far off places. The district also is known as a center for experiencing and learning some of the cultural as well as traditional practices of Kerala. Kollam, Kottayam and Alappuzha form the adjoining districts of Pathanamthitta. The town enjoys a tropical climate, the monsoons start in June. The months of April–May can get pretty humid. The best weather is from October to February. Pathanamthitta experiences three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon and winter. Typical summer months are from March to May.