Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple
Kerala's great hill shrine of Lord Ayyappa, drawing millions of black-clad pilgrims each winter.
- Open
- Mandala season from about mid-November, Makaravilakku to mid-January, and the start of each Malayalam month
- Price
- Free; online queue booking is required
- Time Needed
- 1–2 days
- Best Time
- Outside the crowds around Makaravilakku
- Address
- Sannidhanam, Sabarimala, Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689662Directions
- Getting There
- Bus to Pamba, then a walk of about 5 km uphill.
Why Go
Pilgrims keep a 41-day fast before they come, then climb carrying a bundle on their heads. It's open only at set times of the year, and Supreme Court rulings and protests have made access for women of certain ages a contested subject.
Tips
- Women aged 10–50 should check the current rules and local situation before planning a visit.
Nearby
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