Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple in Kerala is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. During the Mandala Makaravilakku season, lakhs of devotees from across South India and beyond climb the hills to reach the shrine. Here is a planning guide.
Location
The temple sits on a hill in the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. Pilgrims walk about 5 km uphill from the Pamba base camp.
The season
The temple is not open all year. The main season begins with Mandala Pooja in the Malayalam month of Vrischikam, usually in mid November, and continues to Makaravilakku around 14 or 15 January, when the Makara Jyothi is seen. The temple also opens for the first few days of each Malayalam month. Exact 2026 season dates should be treated as tentative until announced by the Travancore Devaswom Board.
Virtual queue booking
- Darshan is managed through a virtual queue system.
- Book a slot on the official website sabarimalaonline.org.
- Carry the booking confirmation and the same photo ID used to book.
- Spot booking may be available at select centres in limited numbers.
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The 41 day vratham
Devotees traditionally observe a 41 day vratham, or fast, before the pilgrimage. It usually includes:
- Wearing a mala and black, blue or saffron clothes.
- A vegetarian diet and abstaining from alcohol and tobacco.
- Celibacy, simple living and daily prayer.
- Devotees call each other Swamy during this period.
Irumudi and the 18 steps
Pilgrims carry an irumudi kettu, a two part bundle with offerings including a coconut filled with ghee. Only those carrying an irumudi can climb the sacred 18 steps, called Pathinettam Padi, to the sanctum.
Who manages the temple
The temple is managed by the Travancore Devaswom Board.
Health and safety tips
- The climb is steep. People with heart or breathing problems should consult a doctor first.
- Carry water, walk slowly and rest when needed.
- Medical aid centres are set up along the route during the season.
- Follow police and forest department instructions. Do not litter, and avoid plastic in the forest.
How to reach
- **Rail:** Chengannur and Kottayam are the main railway stations.
- **Air:** Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi airports are the nearest.
- **Road:** KSRTC runs special buses to Pamba during the season.
Bottom line
Book a virtual queue slot early, prepare physically and respect forest rules for a safe Sabarimala pilgrimage.
Source / स्रोत: Sabarimala Online, Travancore Devaswom Board, Travancore Devaswom Board, Kerala Police
