Sabarimala Temple

Sabarimala is located at a height of almost 1000 meters above sea level on the Sahyadri ranges in Western Ghats. The Sabarimala temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, who is said to have meditated here after killing the demon Mahishi. The Sabarimala pilgrimage attracts thousands of devotees during the peak season of November to January. To go to Sabarimala one needs to observe strict discipline like abstinence from alcohol, smoking and other comforts of life and lead a life of an ascetic for 41 days. Women between the ages of 10-50 are not allowed to go on this pilgrimage. Before reaching the temple, you are supposed to worship a shrine that is dedicated to a Muslim saint. The temple can be reached by climbing a flight of 18 steps covered in gold. These 18 steps signify different aspects of human nature like intelligence, anger, the 5 senses, etc. One who crosses these 18 steps is said to have attained "Punyadarshanam". In January every year, thousands of devotees gather at Sabarimala to view the "Makaravilaku" or divine flame that is visible during one particular day of the Makara star. When dusk falls, a small flame arises in a distance, between two hills just opposite the temple. The temple comes alive with the praises – Sharanam Ayyappa.

Air: There are two airports that are near this pilgrimage at Thiruvananthapuram and Cochin.

Rail: The nearest railway station is at Kottayam and Chengannur.

Road: The pilgrimage is well connected to Kerala by a wide network of roads.