Sabarimala Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Sabarimala with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, what to do, where to stay, local culture and customs, and more!


Sabarimala Travel Guide: Explore the Religious and Scenic Treasures in Kerala

Sabarimala is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage center situated in the Periyar Tiger Reserve of Kerala, South India. Nestled in the mesmerizing Western Ghats mountain range, Sabarimala witnesses a large number of devotees every year. But other than the famous temple, Sabarimala also boasts some of the most scenic natural landscapes and outdoor adventures you can experience in Kerala.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and other essential information to plan your trip to Sabarimala.

List of Places to Visit in Sabarimala

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple: The temple is the main reason why most people visit Sabarimala. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, a Hindu deity. The temple complex is vast, and the temple rituals and offerings can be quite unique to those unfamiliar with Hindu customs precisely those observed during the Mandalam-Makaravilakku season beginning from mid-November to mid-January.
  • Malikappuram Devi Temple: It is located on the eastern side of Sabarimala temple, and it is believed that the goddess has miraculous healing powers.
  • Saramkuthi: Saramkuthi used to be a meditation center; it now features a museum that offers a glimpse into the temple’s history and the beliefs followed by the temple’s followers.
  • Vavar Shrine: Dedicated to Vavar, a Muslim Keralite by birth, who is believed to be a divine warrior and a friend to Lord Ayyappa.
  • Pampa Ganapathy Temple: The temple is situated on the banks of the Pamba River and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha.

Natural Attractions of Sabarimala: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Periyar Tiger Reserve: Located nearby Sabarimala at a distance of around 85km, Periyar Tiger Reserve is one of the most significant tiger reserves in India. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it houses a range of exotic flora and fauna surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
  • Kolukkumalai Tea Estate: Enjoy a refreshing cup of tea at the world’s highest tea plantation while catching a glimpse of the scenic views that the mountains have to offer.
  • Sabarimala Trekking Trails: Sabarimala features several trekking trails, the most famous among them being the Neelimala Viewpoint trek.
  • Parunthumpara: A mist-clad area located nearby Sabarimala, Parunthumpara is known for its scenic beauty, idyllic hills, deep valleys, and ravines.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sabarimala

Sabarimala offers several hiking and biking routes that take you through incredible scenic views, including:

  • Chalakayam to Sabarimala: It’s a long 10km trek with breathtaking scenic beauty that takes you through Valiya Abdu mountains.
  • Erattupetta to Sabarimala: It’s an 18km bike ride through the winding roads overlooking the gorgeous lush green forests and valleys of Sabarimala.

Best Things to Do in Sabarimala: Activities and Tours

  • Witness the Sabarimala Festival: The Mandalam-Makaravilakku season is one of the main attractions of Sabarimala; it attracts millions of devotees from all over India.
  • Yoga and Meditation: Sabarimala offers a peaceful and tranquil environment with its natural landscapes and spiritual environment, making it the ideal place for yoga and meditation.
  • Nature Walks: Sabarimala offers several natural trails that take you through some of the scenic and picturesque views of Kerala’s Western Ghats.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sabarimala

Day 1: Visit the Sabarimala temple and witness the temple rituals and offerings. Day 2-3: Explore the natural beauty of Sabarimala and trek through the beautiful trails. Day 4: Visit Pampa Ganapathy Temple and Malikappuram Devi Temple. Day 5: Take a day trip to Kolukkumalai Tea Estate. Day 6: Attend a yoga retreat and participate in meditation sessions. Day 7: Visit Parunthumpara and enjoy the stunning views.

Food and Drink Scene of Sabarimala

Must-Try Dishes

  • Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed rice cakes served with a side of black chickpeas curry.
  • Appam and Stew: Pancakes made of fermented rice and coconut milk served alongside a vegetable or chicken stew.
  • Sambar and Rice: A dal-based dish served with rice and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Chukku Kappi: A hot beverage made by boiling dry ginger powder with coffee.
  • Kattan Chaaya: A tea made using a unique combination of spices offering a spicy tangy taste.

Where to Stay in Sabarimala: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sabarimala offers a diverse range of budget-friendly accommodations, including guesthouses, hotels, and budget-friendly hostels.

  • Sabarimala Malika: Located near the temple, Sabarimala Malika offers a comfortable stay and is suitable for families and couples.
  • Pamba Heritage Villa: A beautiful heritage style property located around 1km from the Sabarimala temple.
  • Ajaya Lords Inn: A budget chain hotel located 45kms from Sabarimala in the city of Pathanamthitta.

What to Buy in Sabarimala: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Rosewood Handicrafts: Sabarimala has a vast collection of intricately carved rosewood handicrafts such as incense stick holders, wall hangings, and idols of Lord Ayyappa and other deities.
  • Spices: Kerala is renowned for its spices, and Sabarimala is no exception. You can find spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg in local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Sabarimala

Sabarimala is a religious pilgrimage center where traditional customs and attire are respected.

  • Women of menstruating age are not allowed inside the Sabarimala temple, and men and women must follow the dress code.
  • Devotees who plan to visit Sabarimala during the Mandalam-Makaravilakku season must strictly observe a 41-day fasting period before the pilgrimage.

Best Time to Visit Sabarimala

The best time to visit Sabarimala is during the Mandalam-Makaravilakku season, which typically falls between mid-November and mid-January. The weather remains pleasant during this time, and many cultural festivals take place in and around Sabarimala.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sabarimala

Do:

  • Follow the dress code and traditional customs of Sabarimala.
  • Keep the environment clean and avoid littering.
  • Respect the beliefs and customs of other devotees.

Don’t:

  • Do not carry any items made of plastic. Sabarimala is a No-Plastic zone.
  • Do not break the fasting period if you plan to visit the temple.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sabarimala

Sabarimala is a relatively safe destination, but following some basic safety measures can prevent any mishaps or accidents during your stay.

  • Avoid visiting Sabarimala during the monsoon season due to the heavy rainfall and flash floods in the area.
  • Beware of monkeys; they can be mischievous and snatch food, water, or other items.

Health in Sabarimala

Make sure to carry a first-aid kit and take precautions to prevent any illness or disease during your stay.

  • Drink safe and clean water. Use water purifiers or carry bottled water.
  • Take precautions against mosquito bites by applying mosquito repellant or wearing protective clothing.

Getting to Sabarimala: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sabarimala

The nearest airport to Sabarimala is Cochin International Airport, which is around 135km away.

Bus Stations Near Sabarimala

Sabarimala does not have a bus station, but you can reach the temple by taking a bus to Erumeli, located around 12km away from Sabarimala. From Erumeli, you can take a taxi or a private vehicle to reach Sabarimala temple.

Other Options

You can also hire a private taxi or drive down to Sabarimala.

How to Get Around in Sabarimala

Sabarimala is a relatively small town, and one can easily walk and explore the place. Alternatively, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or hire a two-wheeler to get around Sabarimala.

Where to Go Next from Sabarimala: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Gavi: Located 76km from Sabarimala, Gavi is a scenic village surrounded by lush green plantations, forests, and wildlife.
  • Thekkady: Located around 100km from Sabarimala, Thekkady is a popular tourist destination known for its Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and other natural attractions.

Conclusion

Sabarimala is the perfect blend of spirituality, nature, culture, and adventure. The place is truly a gem of Kerala and has something to offer to everyone. Now that you have a comprehensive travel guide to Sabarimala, chart your itinerary and head out to discover the religious and scenic treasures that this place has to offer.

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