The Sri Dharma Sastha Hindu Temple at Pakkil is an ancient one and has got a festival called Pakkil Vanibham (fair of locally made house hold items) on the 1st of the Malayalam month of Karkidakom (July–August) every year. There is an intriguing tale behind the conduct of this fair. Legend has it that Lord Parasurama, the creator of Kerala as per mythology, who arrived at this place to set up a temple found difficulty in installing the idol of Dharma Sastha (Lord Ayyappa). He sought help from Pakkanar, another legendary character, who had arrived to sell traditional wares such as Kutta and Muram. It is believed by the devotees that Pakkanar installed the idol saying "Ivide parkku" meaning 'you stay here' and the idol got affixed. Pleased, Lord Parasurama let Pakkanar come here every year and sell his wares (Kutta and Muram). This tradition was carried forth by the descendants of Pakkanar and continues till date. It is believed by the devotees that the term 'Parkku' became 'Pakkil' over the years and thus the place got named as Pakkil. This is one of the 8 temples have been consecrated by Lord Parasurama as per Kottarathil Shankunni's famed tome "Aeithiha Mala".
