Sabarimala Sastha Temple

Sabarimala Sastha Temple From Pathanamthitta

  • Temple History

The Sabarimala Sastha Temple, located in Pathanamthitta district, is a globally renowned pilgrimage site in India. Nestled at an altitude of 914 meters above sea level, the temple is set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Western Ghats, surrounded by eighteen hills.

Dedicated to Lord Ayyappan, the temple holds significant importance in Hindu mythology, as Ayyappan is believed to be the son of Lord Shiva and Mohini, a divine incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Sabarimala is recognized as the largest annual pilgrimage center in the world, attracting an estimated 17 to 30 million devotees each year from across the globe.

The temple’s unique location and its rich spiritual heritage make it a focal point for thousands seeking blessings and fulfillment. If you would like to know more about the temple’s rituals, festivals, or its history, feel free to ask!

Since the Sabarimala Temple is accessible only on foot, pilgrims must trek approximately 4 kilometers from Pamba to reach the temple. The temple is open to people of all castes and creeds; however, women between the ages of 10 and 50 are traditionally not permitted to enter.

  • Speciality of the Temple

With an estimated 50 million devotees visiting each year, the Sabarimala Sastha Temple is recognized as the largest annual pilgrimage center in the world. This sacred site is believed to be where Lord Ayyappa meditated after vanquishing the powerful demoness Maharshi.

Nestled amidst 18 hills, the temple is characterized by its unique spiritual atmosphere. Traditionally, women aged 10 to 50 are prohibited from entering the temple, based on the belief that Lord Ayyappa, a Brahmachari (celibate ascetic), restricts entry to this age group.

  • Festivals

he most significant festival at Sabarimala Sastha Temple is Makara Vilakku, which begins on Makara Sankranti, marking the sun’s transition to the summer solstice. According to legend, it is believed that the idol of Dharma Shastha was enshrined in the temple on this auspicious day.

In addition to Makara Vilakku, other important festivals celebrated at Sabarimala include Onam, Mandala Pooja, and Vishu Vilakku. Each of these festivals attracts a large number of devotees and involves various rituals and festivities, enhancing the spiritual vibrancy of the temple.

If you’d like more information about any specific festival or its associated rituals, feel free to ask!

  • Pathways
  • Kottayam, Thiruvalla, and Chengannur are the nearest railway stations to Sabarimala Sastha Temple, located about 90 km away.
  • Pilgrims traveling from Alleppey to Sabarimala can take the Chanaganassery-Erumeli route or go through Thiruvalla, Kozhencherry, and Pathanamthitta, covering about 125 km.
  • The nearest airports to Sabarimala Sastha Temple are Kochi (160 km away) and Thiruvananthapuram (170 km away).