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Sabrimala is the holy abode of Sree Ayyappan; and the only way to reach this temple is by walking or trekking through the traditional trail. There are three trekking routes that lead to this temple. The Sabarimala traditional trekking path exudes charm with its scenic surroundings. This Hindu temple serves as the best example of the amalgamation of several religious traditions. It includes a unique tradition of offering prayer at the mosque of Vavar, a Muslim devotee of Ayyappan. This temple is the most famous and prominent among all the Sastha temples in Kerala.
Location
Photo: Prasanth Prakash / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the western ghats at a height of 914 metres above sea level, Sabarimala Temple is situated atop a hill in the village of Ranni-Perunad, Pathanamthitta district of Kerala.
Suggested Read: Kerala Temples
How To Reach
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Though you can reach the base of the temple via air, rail, or roadways, the only way to cover the Sabarimala traditional trekking path distance is by walking. There are three trekking routes from the base to reach the hilltop. The traditional route is from Erumeli to Pampa trail, and the shorter route is from Pamba to Sabarimala Temple. The easiest of all is the Chalakayam route. You can choose any route to reach this divine temple.
3 Sabarimala Traditional Trekking Paths
Sabarimala Temple is reachable by the following three trek routes. The traditional trek is the most-used one, and also the most challenging one. Let’s explore them one-by-one.
1. Traditional Erumeli Trek Route
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The traditional trek yatra begins from Erumeli. Here, you can dress up as tribals and enjoy dancing with other devotees. Then, proceed to Petta Shri Dharmashasta Temple. After that, reach Perur Thodu, which is the last human-inhabited place before the dense forest begins. Beyond this, the arduous uphill trek to Azhutha Medu begins. You can take a dip in the Azhutha River, a tributary of the Holy Pamba. Then, head towards Karimala Top, and seek blessings at the temples of Karimala Bhagavathi and Kochu Kadutha Swami. After that, proceed towards Pampa and Vazhukkum Para only to hop on to the 4-staged trek of Neelimala towards Sannidhanam. The trek from Apachimedu to Sabaripeetham is the most difficult in the entire journey. Marakootam is the point where the two routes (new and traditional) meet.
Suggested Read: Trekking In Kerala
2. The Vandiperiyar Route
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Vandiperiyar is 29 km from Sannidhanam, and this route is on the Kottayam-Kumili Road. It passes through Kozhikkanam, Uppupara, and Uralkuzhi Theertham. This is the most convenient route for the pilgrims, especially those coming from Tamil Nadu, touching Kumily. Private jeep and KSRTC bus services are available from Vandiperiyar and Kumily and run towards Uppara. This is a 25 km journey. After reaching Uppara, you need to trek through Pandithavalam, which is around 4 km to reach Ayyappa Sannidhanam.
3. The Chalakayam Route
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The Chalakayam route is the easiest route to reach Ayyappa Sannidhanam. Chalakayam is near the River Pampa and is only 8 km from the main temple. This route from Pampa to Sabarimala Temple is also called the Neelimala route. You need to cross the Ganapathi Temple, Appachimedu, Sabari Peedom, and Marakkottam in order to finally reach Ayyappa Sannidhanam. It is advised to take short breaks in between even if the trek seems less challenging. There are a lot of pilgrim shelters and refreshment shops on the way.
Suggested Read: Shiva Temples In Kerala
Where To Stay
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You can stay at a hotel near Sabarimala Temple. Some of the best places to stay near the temple are: Amaana Plantation Resort, KTDC Lake Palace, Niraamaya Retreats Cardamom Club, The Mountain Courtyard, Misty Mountain Plantation Resort, and more. They offer excellent services and comfort.
Where To Eat
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There are many eating joints to indulge in mouth-watering delicacies near Sabarimala Temple. Some of the best places to eat near the temple are: Sri Hari Bhavan Muthu Hotel, Sabarimala Annadana Mandapam, Hotel Ayyappas, etc. You can enjoy tasty food at these places after paying a visit to the temple.
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Best Time To Visit
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Maximum number of pilgrims visit this temple from April to September, and November to February. The temperature during these months ranges from 20 to 37 degrees. The surrounding forest also looks stunning, offering the best views while trekking uphill. So, the best time to visit Sabarimala Temple is during both summer and winter seasons.
Average Cost Of Trip
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The darshan ticket price for Sabarimala Temple is ₹50, which you can also book online. There are different costs for different types of pujas you would want to do inside the temple. So, the cost ranges from ₹15 to ₹75,000. This divine trip is surely worth all the effort and cost.
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Sabarimala traditional trekking path is the original path taken by Ayyappa, which is why a majority of the tourists and devotees prefer to take this path. Every stopover and landmark on this route holds history, which entices the devotees to take this path. The trek also offers mesmerising views of the surrounding forest. For a hassle-free experience, connect with TripXL, and visit this temple to experience both thrill and bliss at the same time.
Cover Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
