Considered to be the second most visited temple in South India, the Sabarimala Shrine is dedicated to Lord Ayyappan and is thronged by close to 3 million devotees every year. The pilgrimage begins in the month of November and ends in January. Mandala pooja and Makaravilakku are the two main events of the pilgrim season. The temple stays closed during the rest of the year except for the first five days of every Malayalam month and during Vishu (April), the New Year as per the Malayalam calendar.
Certain customs are to be strictly observed if one has to undertake a pilgrimage to Sabarimala. Pilgrims who attend the Mandalapooja observe austerities for 41 days by abstaining themselves from non vegetarian food and carnal pleasures. Pilgrims set out on the pilgrimage in groups under a leader with each individual carrying a cloth bundle called Irumudi kettu containing traditional offerings.
Sabarimala temple has no restrictions for entry into the temple based on caste or creed. The temple is open to males of all age groups and to women who have either passed their fertility age and those before reaching the stage of puberty.
From SAJ Earth, get onto the arterial MC Road and head for the town of Palai. From Palai depart to Erumely through Kanjirapally and therefrom to Pamba, the last town from where you need to trek 4 to 5 kms to reach the temple.
Arrival at Cochin Airport/Railway Station, Proceed to Sabarimala, on the way visit to Chottanikara Temple, Vaikom Temple, Ettumanoor Temple, Erumeli Temple and drop at Pamba. (You can trek 5 kms to reach the temple to have Darshan)
( Darshan- depends upon rush over there) Early morning after the Darshan you can reach Pamba around 9.30 am and proceed to Cochi - SAJ earth Resort Evening You can visit Aluva Siva Temple Over night Stay at SAJ Earth Resort
Early morning Proceed to nirmalya Darshan at Guruvayoor Temple. Back to hotel and check out and proceed to Cochin Airport/Railway Staion.
An amazing relationship between you and SAJ begins right here..
