These groves are generally dedicated to different gods, goddesses, spirits , demons, ancestors or serpents. It is believed that the groves are under the protection of the presiding deity.

In kerala sacred groves are mostly seen in kollam, alappuzha, pathanamthitta, kannur, kasarkode, and kozhikode districts.

The vegetation in the groves are mainly mangroves, fresh water swamps or other tropical forest types.Dieties worshipped in the groves are mother goddess, male godes and animal godes.

Mother goddess worshiped in the groves is kali .Male gods worshiped in the groves are vaishnav gods, shaiva gods, village gods . The animal gods worshipped in the groves are Tiger & Snake [ serpents ].