Sabarimala

Sabarimala - One of the Oldest Temples in India

Located in Kerala amidst the conclave of verdant green forests, this small village is adorned with gurgling streams and the crystal-clear Pamba River. The Sabarimala Temple complex is located at Sabarimala hill inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve on the Western Ghats mountain range. The history of Sabarimala is almost 5000 years old. The Sabarimala Temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. It is one of the oldest temples in India. Pilgrims have to trek 4.5 km to reach the temple. Palanquin services are available for old or handicapped devotees. According to mythology, the Hindu God Ayyappa meditated at Sabarimala after defeating the terrible monster Mahishi. Sabarimala Temple personifies the notion that good always prevails over evil and that there is always justice for all. It is one of the few temples in India that accepts worshippers of any race, lineage or faith. Book a Sabarimala tour package today and get soaked in the spiritual fervour of this pilgrimage destination. You can also customize your Sabarimala tour package to change it as per your plan and availability.

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Important Information

Tickets

Sabarimala Darshan tickets are available online on the official website of the temple administration. Sabarimala Q online saves you from the hassles of standing in a queue and buying physical tickets.

Kerala Sabarimala Temple timings

The Sabarimala Mandir is open from 3:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Best Time to Visit

The Sabarimala Mandir is not open throughout the year. It is open for a few days towards the end and start of each Malayalam calendar month. In addition, it is open on a few other occasions such as Mandala Vilakku (around December 25th), Onam and so on. Makarasankrant and Makaravilakku are the most important occasions. The Mandala kalam pilgrimage to Sabarimala begins on the first day of Malayalam year's Vrischika month and finishes on the 11th day of Dhanu month. Mandala kalam refers to the 41-day pilgrimage season. The season lasts from December until January.

Dos and Don’ts at Kerala Sabarimala Temple

• Pilgrims who want to go on a Sabarimala pilgrimage must refrain from non-vegetarian food, alcohol and cutting hair and nails, and practice celibacy for 41 days before the pilgrimage.
• Women (10 yrs to 50 yrs) are not allowed inside the temple.
• Sabarimala pilgrims should dress in blue or black traditional attire.
• As a sign of devotion, all devotees must say "Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa" (Ayyappa is my saviour).
• Every pilgrim going to Sabarimala carries an Irrumudi-Kettu, which is a bag holding a coconut filled with ghee, puja materials, rice, and a banana. This bag is folded in half and carried on one's head.
• Smoking, drinking and consumption of non-vegetarian food are strictly prohibited in Sabarimala.

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Places to Visit

Kochi, Kerala

Located at a distance of 158 km from Sabarimala, Kochi is a famous tourist destination and a major port city. Earlier known as Cochin, it lies in the Ernakulum district of Kerala. Kochi boasts a perfect blend of modern and antique architecture to meet a variety of interests of travellers. Kochi's uniqueness stems from the amalgamation of Western and Indian influences. The historical places, religious centres, museums, children’s parks, shopping malls, sanctuaries and wildlife parks attract tourists from far and wide.

Palakkad, Kerala

The vast expanse of paddy fields and the rural nature of Palakkad sets it apart from other places in Kerala. Located at about 254 km from Sabarimala, it is a perfect retreat for travellers who love to spend time amidst the stretch of palm trees, dense tropical forests and undulated hilly terrains. The green carpeted landscape is a treat to your eyes and lungs. You will find a mix of cultures and food habits due to its proximity to Tamil Nadu. People visit Palakkad to enjoy the beauty of forts, temples, dams, waterfalls and picturesque locales.

Ponmudi, Kerala

Travel for 180 km from Sabarimala and get soaked in the golden hues of this beautiful hill station. Ponmudi's main attractions include the Golden Valley, the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary and the Mini Zoo. One of the tallest peaks in the Western Ghats, Agasthyarkoodam, draws both tourists and picnickers. Meenmutty Falls is another interesting attraction in the vicinity. It attracts travellers who come here to experience the well-known Ayurvedic medical treatments. With options to go for trekking and hiking, this place is a haven for adventurers.

Alleppey, Kerala

Popularly known as “Venice of the East”, Alleppey or Alappuzha is known for its enchanting lagoons. The backwaters are carpeted with lush green vegetation and curtained by palm trees. It takes your mind to a new world and sparks your imagination and creativity. Staying in a houseboat is one of the most popular activities in which people love to indulge. The city is known for its temples, churches, beaches, lakes and natural beauty. Pathiramanal Island is home to several migratory birds. The fervour of the boat race that is held on the second Saturday of August every year is truly infectious. Plan your trip during this time and enjoy the spirit that engulfs the whole city!

Food & More: Local Dishes

Idli

Idli is a popular breakfast recipe that is easily available in almost all local restaurants in Sabarimala. It is made using a fermented batter of rice and white lentils. Steam is used to cook this dish. It is light on the stomach and is served with ‘sambar’ and ‘coconut chutney’.

Vada

Also known as ‘Medu Vada’ in some parts of South India, this is a popular breakfast available in Sabarimala. It is a doughnut-shaped snack that is deep fried and served with ‘sambar’ and ‘chutney’. The batter used to make these ‘vadas’ is primarily made of black lentils or urad dal. It is flavoured with asafoetida, ginger, black pepper, curry leaves and chillies.

Dosa

A dosa is a thin batter-based (typically crispy) South Indian meal prepared from a fermented batter mostly composed of lentils and rice. Rice and black lentils are mashed together in a fine, silky batter with a dash of salt and is fermented overnight. Dosas are a prominent dish in South Indian cuisine, although they are becoming increasingly popular throughout the country. Don’t forget to taste a ‘dosa’ on your trip to Sabarimala Temple.

Thali Meals

A South Indian meal is a platter that consists of rice, chapati, vegetable curries, rasam, sambar, chutney, papad, pickle, curd and dessert. You can opt for unlimited rice. A meal is usually served for lunch or dinner. It is wholesome and pocket friendly. You can try this food while on a trip to Sabarimala Temple.

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Things to Buy

Sabarimala is a renowned hilltop pilgrimage destination, and the trek is very long, passing through woods and meadows. As a result, there is no particular market at Sabarimala. However, you can buy Ayappa idols made from brass coated with silver or gold colour. Sabarimala cotton dhotis are also available. You can buy a Sabarimala Ayappa mala (necklace) for good luck and prosperity.