Times of India reports
The Achankovil Ayyappa temple, under the Travancore Devaswom, is one of the five temples where Lord Ayyappa is worshiped in various stages of life from balya (child) to sanyasa (hermit stage).
The temple is an exception in yet another way. Anyone, irrespective of religious beliefs, who seeks a cure for snakebite is allowed to enter the temple premises. He/she will have to stay in the 'padippura' for a couple of days after consuming the sandalwood paste and applying it on the forehead to be cured.
The Ayyappa idol at this temple is in such a posture that his right hand is held like a cup where the sandalwood paste is poured. Along with a pinch of the paste, some teertham (holy water) is given to the victim.