{"id":14359,"date":"2026-10-28T13:27:51","date_gmt":"2026-10-28T07:57:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/?p=14359"},"modified":"2026-10-28T16:25:41","modified_gmt":"2026-10-28T10:55:41","slug":"sabarimala-yatra-2026-27","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/","title":{"rendered":"Sabarimala Yatra 2026-27: Dates, Makaravilakku"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"690\" src=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/haridwar-kumbh-2027-1024x690.webp\" alt=\"Haridwar Kumbh 2027\" class=\"wp-image-14355\" srcset=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/haridwar-kumbh-2027-1024x690.webp 1024w, https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/haridwar-kumbh-2027-300x202.webp 300w, https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/haridwar-kumbh-2027-768x517.webp 768w, https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/haridwar-kumbh-2027.webp 1528w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sabarimala Yatra 2026-27<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_89 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_Yatra_2026-27_Dates_Opening_Schedule_and_Makaravilakku_Date\" >Sabarimala Yatra 2026-27: Dates, Opening Schedule and Makaravilakku Date<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_Yatra_2026-27_Dates_at_a_Glance\" >Sabarimala Yatra 2026-27 Dates at a Glance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_Temple_Opening_and_Closing_Schedule_2026-27\" >Sabarimala Temple Opening and Closing Schedule 2026-27<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_Temple_Opening_Date_November_2026\" >Sabarimala Temple Opening Date November 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Short_Closure_After_Mandala_Pooja\" >Short Closure After Mandala Pooja<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_Temple_Closing_Date_2027\" >Sabarimala Temple Closing Date 2027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_Mandala_Pooja_2026_Date_and_Rituals\" >Sabarimala Mandala Pooja 2026 Date and Rituals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Makaravilakku_2027_Kab_Hai_Date_Time_and_Meaning\" >Makaravilakku 2027 Kab Hai, Date, Time and Meaning<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Makaravilakku_Date_and_Time_2027\" >Makaravilakku Date and Time 2027<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Makaravilakku_and_Makarajyothi_Are_Not_the_Same\" >Makaravilakku and Makarajyothi Are Not the Same<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Thiruvabharanam_Procession_from_Pandalam\" >Thiruvabharanam Procession from Pandalam<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_Makarajyothi_Viewing_Places_2027\" >Sabarimala Makarajyothi Viewing Places 2027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_Monthly_Pooja_Dates_2026-27\" >Sabarimala Monthly Pooja Dates 2026-27<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_41-Day_Vratham_Starting_Date_2026\" >Sabarimala 41-Day Vratham Starting Date 2026<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Ayyappa_Mala_Wearing_Date_2026\" >Ayyappa Mala Wearing Date 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_41-Day_Vratham_Rules\" >Sabarimala 41-Day Vratham Rules<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Packing_the_Irumudi_Kettu\" >Packing the Irumudi Kettu<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#How_to_Book_Sabarimala_Darshan_Online_through_Virtual-Q\" >How to Book Sabarimala Darshan Online through Virtual-Q<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Steps_to_Book_Sabarimala_Virtual_Q_Tickets_2026\" >Steps to Book Sabarimala Virtual Q Tickets 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Documents_Required_for_Sabarimala_Darshan_Booking\" >Documents Required for Sabarimala Darshan Booking<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Spot_Booking_and_Reporting_Time\" >Spot Booking and Reporting Time<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_Temple_Darshan_Timings_and_Pilgrimage_Rules\" >Sabarimala Temple Darshan Timings and Pilgrimage Rules<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#How_to_Reach_Sabarimala_Temple\" >How to Reach Sabarimala Temple<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Nilakkal_to_Pamba_and_the_Pamba_to_Sannidhanam_Trek\" >Nilakkal to Pamba and the Pamba to Sannidhanam Trek<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_by_Road_from_Kochi_Bengaluru_Chennai_and_Hyderabad\" >Sabarimala by Road from Kochi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Nearest_Railway_Station_and_Airport\" >Nearest Railway Station and Airport<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_Accommodation_near_Pamba_and_Nilakkal\" >Sabarimala Accommodation near Pamba and Nilakkal<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Planning_Your_Sabarimala_Yatra_2026%E2%80%9327\" >Planning Your Sabarimala Yatra 2026\u201327?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#Sabarimala_Yatra_2026-27_FAQs\" >Sabarimala Yatra 2026-27 FAQs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#1_When_will_Sabarimala_Temple_open_for_the_2026%E2%80%9327_Mandala-Makaravilakku_season\" >1. When will Sabarimala Temple open for the 2026\u201327 Mandala-Makaravilakku season?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#2_What_are_the_Sabarimala_Yatra_2026%E2%80%9327_opening_and_closing_dates\" >2. What are the Sabarimala Yatra 2026\u201327 opening and closing dates?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#3_Makaravilakku_2027_kab_hai_and_what_is_the_exact_date_of_the_festival\" >3. Makaravilakku 2027 kab hai, and what is the exact date of the festival?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#4_When_is_Mandala_Pooja_at_Sabarimala_in_2026\" >4. When is Mandala Pooja at Sabarimala in 2026?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#5_What_is_the_complete_Sabarimala_temple_opening_schedule_for_2026%E2%80%9327\" >5. What is the complete Sabarimala temple opening schedule for 2026\u201327?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#6_How_can_I_check_the_official_Sabarimala_darshan_dates_and_daily_timings\" >6. How can I check the official Sabarimala darshan dates and daily timings?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#7_How_can_I_book_Sabarimala_virtual_queue_tickets_online_for_the_2026%E2%80%9327_season\" >7. How can I book Sabarimala virtual queue tickets online for the 2026\u201327 season?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#8_Is_online_virtual_queue_registration_mandatory_for_Sabarimala_darshan\" >8. Is online virtual queue registration mandatory for Sabarimala darshan?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#9_When_should_devotees_start_the_41-day_Mandala_Vratham_for_Sabarimala_Yatra_2026\" >9. When should devotees start the 41-day Mandala Vratham for Sabarimala Yatra 2026?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#10_What_are_the_rules_and_rituals_of_the_41-day_Ayyappa_Swamy_Vratham\" >10. What are the rules and rituals of the 41-day Ayyappa Swamy Vratham?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#11_What_is_the_significance_of_Mandala_Pooja_and_Makaravilakku_at_Sabarimala\" >11. What is the significance of Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku at Sabarimala?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#12_What_is_the_difference_between_Makaravilakku_and_Makarajyothi\" >12. What is the difference between Makaravilakku and Makarajyothi?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#13_Where_can_devotees_see_Makarajyothi_during_Sabarimala_Makaravilakku_2027\" >13. Where can devotees see Makarajyothi during Sabarimala Makaravilakku 2027?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#14_What_is_the_significance_of_the_sacred_18_steps_at_Sabarimala_Temple\" >14. What is the significance of the sacred 18 steps at Sabarimala Temple?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#15_What_is_the_Irumudi_Kettu_and_is_it_required_to_climb_the_18_sacred_steps\" >15. What is the Irumudi Kettu, and is it required to climb the 18 sacred steps?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#16_What_are_the_dress_code_and_essential_items_required_for_Sabarimala_Yatra\" >16. What are the dress code and essential items required for Sabarimala Yatra?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-46\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#17_How_can_I_reach_Sabarimala_Temple_from_Kochi_Kottayam_or_Thiruvananthapuram\" >17. How can I reach Sabarimala Temple from Kochi, Kottayam, or Thiruvananthapuram?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#18_What_are_the_nearest_railway_stations_and_airports_for_Sabarimala_pilgrims\" >18. What are the nearest railway stations and airports for Sabarimala pilgrims?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-48\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#19_What_are_the_trekking_routes_accommodation_options_and_food_facilities_available_for_Sabarimala_Yatra\" >19. What are the trekking routes, accommodation options, and food facilities available for Sabarimala Yatra?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-49\" href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/sabarimala-yatra-2026-27\/#20_What_are_the_important_travel_guidelines_and_crowd-management_rules_for_Sabarimala_Makaravilakku_2027\" >20. What are the important travel guidelines and crowd-management rules for Sabarimala Makaravilakku 2027?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_Yatra_2026-27_Dates_Opening_Schedule_and_Makaravilakku_Date\"><\/span>Sabarimala Yatra 2026-27: Dates, Opening Schedule and Makaravilakku Date<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sabarimala Yatra 2026-27 begins on Monday, 16 November 2026, when the sanctum of the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple opens at 5 PM. For the next two months, the hill above Pamba in Pathanamthitta district hears one chant through the day and night, &#8220;Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa&#8221;. Devotees in black mundus climb with the Irumudi Kettu on their heads, and the smell of camphor and burning ghee hangs over Sannidhanam late into the night.Plan your journey with our <a href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/sabarimala\/taxi-service-in-sabarimala.html\">taxi service in Sabarimala<\/a> for convenient travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Sabarimala trip needs more planning than a train ticket. The temple opens only in fixed windows, darshan needs a Virtual-Q pass, and private vehicles stop at Nilakkal, 18 km short of Pamba. Opening and closing dates, the Mandala Pooja day, the Makaravilakku 2027 date, monthly pooja windows, Vratham rules, darshan booking and the Pamba to Sannidhanam trek are the details that shape your Lord Ayyappa pilgrimage 2026-27. Our drivers make the Nilakkal trip all through the season, and the local tips in each section come from what they see on these roads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_Yatra_2026-27_Dates_at_a_Glance\"><\/span>Sabarimala Yatra 2026-27 Dates at a Glance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) sets the Sabarimala temple calendar 2026-27 by the Malayalam calendar. Each season opens on the eve of Vrischikam 1 and closes six days after Makara Sankramam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Event<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Date<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Day<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Malayalam Date<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Temple opens for the season (5 PM)<\/td><td>16 November 2026<\/td><td>Monday<\/td><td>Eve of Vrischikam 1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mandala Kalam begins<\/td><td>17 November 2026<\/td><td>Tuesday<\/td><td>Vrischikam 1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mandala Pooja<\/td><td>27 December 2026<\/td><td>Sunday<\/td><td>Dhanu 11<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Temple reopens for Makaravilakku (5 PM)<\/td><td>30 December 2026<\/td><td>Wednesday<\/td><td>Dhanu 14<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Makaravilakku<\/td><td>14 January 2027<\/td><td>Thursday<\/td><td>Makaram 1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Season closing<\/td><td>20 January 2027<\/td><td>Wednesday<\/td><td>Makaram 7<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: space-between; gap: 15px; background: linear-gradient(90deg, #b31217, #e52d27); padding: 15px; border-radius: 12px; flex-wrap: wrap;\">\n\n  <!-- Left Section -->\n  <div style=\"display: flex; align-items: center; gap: 12px; flex: 1; min-width: 250px;\">\n\n    <!-- Icon -->\n    <div style=\"background: #fff; padding: 10px; border-radius: 10px; flex-shrink: 0;\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-icons-png.flaticon.com\/512\/854\/854878.png\" width=\"35\" height=\"35\" alt=\"Haridwar travel and cab booking\" style=\"display: block;\">\n    <\/div>\n\n    <!-- Text -->\n    <div>\n    <p style=\"margin: 0; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; color: #fff;\">\n  Planning Your Sabarimala Yatra 2026\u201327?\n<\/p>\n\n<p style=\"margin: 5px 0 0; font-size: 14px; color: #fff;\">\n  Arrange a convenient cab journey to Nilakkal or Pamba for your Sabarimala pilgrimage.\n  Get a fare quote based on your pickup city, travel date, vehicle type and return plan.\n<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- Right Buttons -->\n  <div style=\"display: flex; gap: 10px; flex-wrap: wrap;\">\n\n    <a href=\"tel:+918448445504\" style=\"background: #fff; color: #b31217; padding: 10px 18px; border-radius: 25px; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold; display: inline-block;\">\n      Check Cab Fare\n    <\/a>\n\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/wa.me\/916280820037?text=Hi%2C%20I%20want%20to%20book%20a%20cab%20for%20Sabarimala%20Yatra%202026-27.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"background: #fff; color: #b31217; padding: 10px 18px; border-radius: 25px; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold; display: inline-block;\">\n      Book on WhatsApp\n    <\/a>\n\n  <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_Temple_Opening_and_Closing_Schedule_2026-27\"><\/span>Sabarimala Temple Opening and Closing Schedule 2026-27<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_Temple_Opening_Date_November_2026\"><\/span>Sabarimala Temple Opening Date November 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nada opening is at 5 PM on 16 November 2026. The new Sabarimala Melsanthi, A.S. Sankaran Namboothiri of Thiruvananthapuram, takes charge that evening. A. Damodaran Namboothiri of Vadakara takes over at Malikappuram. Both were picked by lot at Sannidhanam on 18 October 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Darshan for pilgrims begins the same evening. Regular Mandala poojas start at 3 AM on 17 November, the first day of Vrischikam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Short_Closure_After_Mandala_Pooja\"><\/span>Short Closure After Mandala Pooja<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The temple closes after Harivarasanam on the night of 27 December. It stays shut on 28 and 29 December and reopens at 5 PM on 30 December for the Makaravilakku season. Devotees believe Lord Ayyappa remains in meditation as a Naishtika Brahmachari, which is why the shrine opens only for set periods in the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_Temple_Closing_Date_2027\"><\/span>Sabarimala Temple Closing Date 2027<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The season closes on Wednesday, 20 January 2027. Pilgrim darshan ends on the night of 19 January, after the Guruthi ritual at Malikappuram. On the closing morning, only the representative of the Pandalam royal family has darshan before the Melsanthi shuts the nada and hands over the keys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you want to reach Sannidhanam at the tail end of the season, plan your darshan for 19 January at the latest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-vivid-red-background-color has-background wp-element-button\">Book Your Sabarimala Pilgrimage Cab<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_Mandala_Pooja_2026_Date_and_Rituals\"><\/span>Sabarimala Mandala Pooja 2026 Date and Rituals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mandala Kalam 2026 covers 41 days, beginning 17 November and ending with Mandala Pooja on Sunday, 27 December 2026. For devotees who wore the mala on Vrischikam 1, this day completes their 41-day Vratham.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Thanka Anki, the golden attire gifted by the Travancore royal family in 1973, travels in procession from Aranmula Parthasarathy temple.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It reaches Sannidhanam on the evening of 26 December, and the deity is adorned with it for the Deeparadhana.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mandala Pooja takes place during the noon Ucha Pooja on 27 December, with the idol in the Thanka Anki.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Crowds peak in the final week before Mandala Pooja. Last season, TDB released Virtual-Q slots for 26 and 27 December only on 11 December 2025, so we suggest watching the portal from early December. The opening week is no quieter. In November 2025, the Kerala High Court capped spot bookings at 5,000 a day after the crowd at Sannidhanam crossed one lakh pilgrims daily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Makaravilakku_2027_Kab_Hai_Date_Time_and_Meaning\"><\/span>Makaravilakku 2027 Kab Hai, Date, Time and Meaning<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Makaravilakku 2027 falls on Thursday, 14 January 2027. This is Makara Sankramam, the day the sun enters Makaram (Capricorn), and it is the biggest evening of the Sabarimala pilgrimage season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Makaravilakku_Date_and_Time_2027\"><\/span>Makaravilakku Date and Time 2027<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Ritual<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Date and Time<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Thiruvabharanam procession leaves Pandalam<\/td><td>12 January 2027<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Thiruvabharanam reaches Sannidhanam<\/td><td>Evening of 14 January 2027<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Deeparadhana with the sacred ornaments<\/td><td>After 6:30 PM, 14 January 2027<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Makaravilakku lit at Ponnambalamedu<\/td><td>Right after Deeparadhana<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Makara Sankrama Pooja<\/td><td>Time to be announced by TDB in early January<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Makaravilakku_and_Makarajyothi_Are_Not_the_Same\"><\/span>Makaravilakku and Makarajyothi Are Not the Same<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">People use the two words as one, but they mean different things. Makarajyothi is the star that rises in the eastern sky on Makara Sankranti evening. Makaravilakku is the lamp lit three times on Ponnambalamedu, a hill across the valley from Sannidhanam, as the Deeparadhana ends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Devotees see both within minutes, and the whole hill goes quiet before the chant of &#8220;Saranam&#8221; breaks out again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Thiruvabharanam_Procession_from_Pandalam\"><\/span>Thiruvabharanam Procession from Pandalam<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sacred ornaments of Lord Ayyappa are kept at Valiyakoikkal temple in Pandalam. Three caskets leave on 12 January 2027, carried on foot by bearers chosen by the Pandalam royal family. The group walks through Kozhencherry, Ranni and forest paths over three days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_Makarajyothi_Viewing_Places_2027\"><\/span>Sabarimala Makarajyothi Viewing Places 2027<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Kerala Police sets up ten official viewing points every year. These are the spots pilgrims use most:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sannidhanam and Pandithavalam, where devotees camp a day in advance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Marakoottam, Saramkuthi and the Malikappuram grounds, all inside the temple area.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Hill Top parking ground at Pamba, under police watch.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Forest points at Pullumedu, Neelimala, Attathodu, Chalakkayam, Ilavunkal and Angamoozhi.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Panchalimedu near Kuttikkanam, 70 km away, which gives a clear view only when there are no rain clouds.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Makaravilakku day comes with strict crowd control. In 2026, TDB allowed only 30,000 pilgrims through the Virtual-Q on that day. Police at Pullumedu stopped pilgrims walking on to Sannidhanam after the jyothi in 2025. The road out of Nilakkal jams with buses within minutes of the darshan, so we recommend keeping your return cab for the next morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_Monthly_Pooja_Dates_2026-27\"><\/span>Sabarimala Monthly Pooja Dates 2026-27<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the season closes, the temple opens for five days at the start of each Malayalam month. These windows are quieter, though Virtual-Q booking is still required. The Thulam pooja in October 2026 crossed 50,000 online bookings within its first two days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Month<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Opening<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Closing<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Kumbham<\/td><td>12 February 2027<\/td><td>16 February 2027<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Meenam<\/td><td>14 March 2027<\/td><td>18 March 2027<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Medam (Vishu)<\/td><td>10 April 2027<\/td><td>19 April 2027<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Edavam<\/td><td>14 May 2027<\/td><td>18 May 2027<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Vishukkani darshan falls on 14 April 2027. TDB will announce the ten-day Painkuni Uthram festival dates closer to the time. Check the Travancore Devaswom Board Sabarimala calendar on the official site before you book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_41-Day_Vratham_Starting_Date_2026\"><\/span>Sabarimala 41-Day Vratham Starting Date 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Vratham is 41 days of discipline that every devotee completes before climbing the 18 holy steps. Count back 41 days, with your planned darshan day as day 41, and that becomes your Ayyappa mala wearing date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ayyappa_Mala_Wearing_Date_2026\"><\/span>Ayyappa Mala Wearing Date 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Your Darshan Day<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Start the Vratham On<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Mandala Pooja, 27 December 2026<\/td><td>17 November 2026 (Tuesday, Vrischikam 1)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Makaravilakku, 14 January 2027<\/td><td>5 December 2026 (Saturday)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Last pilgrim darshan, 19 January 2027<\/td><td>10 December 2026 (Thursday)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many Guru Swamis pick a Saturday or the Uthram star day for the mala ceremony. The mala, made of tulasi or rudraksha beads, is blessed by a Guru Swami or temple priest before you wear it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_41-Day_Vratham_Rules\"><\/span>Sabarimala 41-Day Vratham Rules<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Devotees follow a simple, strict routine during these six weeks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Only vegetarian food, with no alcohol, tobacco, meat or eggs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Black, blue or saffron clothes, and many walk barefoot.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Celibacy for all 41 days.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A bath and prayer at dawn and dusk, with bhajans in the evening.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fellow devotees are called &#8220;Swami&#8221;, and young girls and older women on the yatra are called &#8220;Malikappuram&#8221;.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First-time pilgrims are known as Kanni Ayyappans, and they leave a sharam (arrow) at Saramkuthi on the trek.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Packing_the_Irumudi_Kettu\"><\/span>Packing the Irumudi Kettu<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Irumudi Kettu has two compartments. Its front part, the Munmudi, holds the ghee-filled coconut (Neythenga) and pooja items for the deity. Behind it, the Pinmudi carries the devotee&#8217;s own food for the yatra.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Guru Swami packs it during the Kettunira ceremony at home or at a temple. TDB also keeps a Kettunira centre at Pamba for pilgrims who arrive without one. Only devotees carrying the Irumudi can climb the Pathinettam Padi. Others take the northern gate for darshan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Book_Sabarimala_Darshan_Online_through_Virtual-Q\"><\/span>How to Book Sabarimala Darshan Online through Virtual-Q<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sabarimala Virtual-Q booking is free and compulsory for darshan. TDB handles it on sabarimalaonline.org, and you should avoid third-party sites that charge a fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As of 24 October 2026, TDB had not fixed the daily Virtual-Q limit for 2026-27. TDB President K. Jayakumar said the number would be decided after talks with the police. For reference, last season&#8217;s booking opened on 1 November 2025 with 70,000 online passes a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Steps_to_Book_Sabarimala_Virtual_Q_Tickets_2026\"><\/span>Steps to Book Sabarimala Virtual Q Tickets 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Open sabarimalaonline.org and select Virtual-Q.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Register with your mobile number and email, then verify the OTP.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Upload a recent photo and enter your ID details.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pick your darshan date, time slot and route (Pamba, Erumeli or Vandiperiyar).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add the other pilgrims in your group, up to 10 per booking.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Download the QR-coded pass and carry a printed copy as backup.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Documents_Required_for_Sabarimala_Darshan_Booking\"><\/span>Documents Required for Sabarimala Darshan Booking<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You need an Aadhaar card, voter ID or passport for every adult in the group. The name on the booking must match the ID exactly. Carry the same original ID to the Pamba checkpoint, because police verify it against the pass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Spot_Booking_and_Reporting_Time\"><\/span>Spot Booking and Reporting Time<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spot booking counters worked at Pamba, Nilakkal, Erumeli, Vandiperiyar, Chengannur and Sathram last season. The cap moved between 5,000 and 20,000 a day, based on crowd levels and court orders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your pass&#8217;s time slot matters. In November 2025, the Kerala High Court ordered that pilgrims follow the printed slot, and those with a mismatched date were turned back. Our drivers plan the Nilakkal arrival with enough margin for parking, the chain bus queue and the Pamba checkpoint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"chiku-booking-box\">\n\n  <div class=\"chiku-booking-title\">\n    <span class=\"chiku-phone-icon\">\u260e<\/span>\n     Book a Cab for Sabarimala Yatra 2026\u201327\n  <\/div>\n\n  <div class=\"chiku-booking-subtitle\">\n Plan Your Sabarimala Pilgrimage with Convenient Cab Booking to Nilakkal or Pamba. Contact Us for Booking and Fare Details!\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- WhatsApp Button -->\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/api.whatsapp.com\/send?phone=916280820037&amp;text=Hi!\" class=\"chiku-whatsapp-btn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">\n    <span class=\"whatsapp-icon\">\u25ef<\/span>\n    WhatsApp Booking\n  <\/a>\n\n  <!-- Call Button -->\n  <a href=\"tel:8448445504\" class=\"chiku-call-btn\">\n    <span class=\"call-icon\">\u260e<\/span>\n    Call: +91-8448445504\n  <\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<style>\n\n\/* ==============================\n   CHIKUCAB BOOKING BOX\n   ============================== *\/\n\n.chiku-booking-box {\n  width: 100%;\n  max-width: 490px;\n  box-sizing: border-box;\n\n  \/* RED BACKGROUND *\/\n  background: #DB2824;\n\n  border-radius: 0 20px 20px 20px;\n\n  padding: 27px 26px 28px;\n\n  position: relative;\n  overflow: hidden;\n\n  font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\n}\n\n\n\/* ==============================\n   TOP YELLOW DASHED LINE\n   ============================== *\/\n\n.chiku-booking-box::before {\n  content: \"\";\n\n  position: absolute;\n\n  top: 0;\n  left: 0;\n  right: 0;\n\n  height: 3px;\n\n  background: repeating-linear-gradient(\n    to right,\n    #FFD329 0,\n    #FFD329 25px,\n    transparent 25px,\n    transparent 38px\n  );\n}\n\n\n\/* ==============================\n   TITLE\n   ============================== *\/\n\n.chiku-booking-title {\n  color: #ffffff;\n\n  font-family: Georgia, \"Times New Roman\", serif;\n\n  font-size: 27px;\n\n  font-weight: 700;\n\n  line-height: 1.2;\n\n  margin-bottom: 14px;\n}\n\n\n.chiku-phone-icon {\n  color: #FFD329;\n\n  font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\n\n  font-size: 27px;\n\n  margin-right: 8px;\n\n  font-weight: normal;\n}\n\n\n\/* ==============================\n   SUBTITLE\n   ============================== *\/\n\n.chiku-booking-subtitle {\n  color: #ffffff;\n\n  font-size: 19px;\n\n  font-weight: 600;\n\n  line-height: 1.6;\n\n  margin-bottom: 19px;\n}\n\n\n\/* ==============================\n   COMMON BUTTON STYLE\n   ============================== *\/\n\n.chiku-whatsapp-btn,\n.chiku-call-btn {\n\n  width: 100%;\n\n  min-height: 60px;\n\n  box-sizing: border-box;\n\n  border-radius: 15px;\n\n  display: flex;\n\n  align-items: center;\n\n  justify-content: center;\n\n  gap: 13px;\n\n  text-decoration: none;\n\n  font-size: 21px;\n\n  font-weight: 700;\n\n  transition: all 0.2s ease;\n\n}\n\n\n\/* ==============================\n   WHATSAPP BUTTON\n   ============================== *\/\n\n.chiku-whatsapp-btn {\n\n  background: #20D366;\n\n  color: #000000;\n\n  margin-bottom: 15px;\n}\n\n\n.chiku-whatsapp-btn:hover {\n\n  background: #19BD59;\n\n  color: #000000;\n\n  transform: translateY(-1px);\n}\n\n\n\/* ==============================\n   CALL BUTTON\n   ============================== *\/\n\n.chiku-call-btn {\n\n  background: #FFD329;\n\n  color: #000000;\n}\n\n\n.chiku-call-btn:hover {\n\n  background: #F5C719;\n\n  color: #000000;\n\n  transform: translateY(-1px);\n}\n\n\n\/* ==============================\n   ICONS\n   ============================== *\/\n\n.whatsapp-icon,\n.call-icon {\n\n  font-size: 27px;\n\n  line-height: 1;\n\n  font-weight: normal;\n}\n\n\n\/* ==============================\n   MOBILE RESPONSIVE\n   ============================== *\/\n\n@media (max-width: 480px) {\n\n  .chiku-booking-box {\n\n    padding: 24px 20px 24px;\n\n    border-radius: 0 18px 18px 18px;\n  }\n\n\n  .chiku-booking-title {\n\n    font-size: 24px;\n  }\n\n\n  .chiku-booking-subtitle {\n\n    font-size: 17px;\n\n    line-height: 1.5;\n  }\n\n\n  .chiku-whatsapp-btn,\n  .chiku-call-btn {\n\n    font-size: 18px;\n\n    min-height: 58px;\n  }\n\n}\n\n<\/style>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_Temple_Darshan_Timings_and_Pilgrimage_Rules\"><\/span>Sabarimala Temple Darshan Timings and Pilgrimage Rules<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During the Mandala-Makaravilakku season, the temple follows this daily schedule:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Ritual<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Time<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Nada opens, Nirmalyam<\/td><td>3:00 AM<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Neyyabhishekam (first session)<\/td><td>3:30 AM \u2013 7:00 AM<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Neyyabhishekam (second session)<\/td><td>8:00 AM \u2013 11:30 AM<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Ucha Pooja<\/td><td>12:30 PM<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Nada closes<\/td><td>1:00 PM<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Nada reopens<\/td><td>3:00 PM<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Deeparadhana<\/td><td>6:30 PM<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Harivarasanam<\/td><td>10:50 PM<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Nada closes<\/td><td>11:00 PM<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">TDB extends these hours on heavy days. Before you leave Pamba, check the latest timings on TDB notices or the Ayyan app.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A few Sabarimala pilgrimage rules apply to everyone:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Plastic is banned at Nilakkal, Pamba and Sannidhanam.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Throwing clothes or pooja items into the Pamba river is not allowed, and the High Court has warned against it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>TDB has not approved any helicopter service to Nilakkal, so treat any such booking as fraud.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Entry rules for women aged 10 to 50 follow the current TDB notice. A nine-judge Supreme Court bench heard the matter in 2026, so check the latest position before you book.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Reach_Sabarimala_Temple\"><\/span>How to Reach Sabarimala Temple<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sabarimala lies inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Pathanamthitta district. Private vehicles go only up to Nilakkal. Last season, cars and vehicles with up to 12 seats could drop pilgrims at Pamba and return to Nilakkal to park. Larger tempo travellers and buses park at Nilakkal itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nilakkal_to_Pamba_and_the_Pamba_to_Sannidhanam_Trek\"><\/span>Nilakkal to Pamba and the Pamba to Sannidhanam Trek<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>KSRTC chain buses cover the 18 km between Nilakkal and Pamba, leaving every 2 to 5 minutes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>We suggest buying the return bus ticket at Nilakkal, because the exit queue at Pamba gets long after the 1 PM closing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Parking at Nilakkal is paid by FASTag. Cars paid \u20b930 and mini buses \u20b975 per 24 hours last season, so a topped-up tag before Vadasserikkara saves time at the gate.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Pamba to Sannidhanam trek covers 5 km uphill. Your path passes Pamba Ganapathi temple, Neelimala, Appachimedu, Sabaripeedam, Saramkuthi and Marakoottam before the Nadapanthal and the 18 steps. Neelimala and Appachimedu are the steepest climbs, so try to pause at the medical and oxygen points along the way. Swami Ayyappan Road is the gentler path, and dolis are available at Pamba for elderly pilgrims at TDB-fixed rates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"225\" src=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-06-28-at-10.50.37-AM-1024x225.jpeg\" alt=\"Chiku cab app\" class=\"wp-image-7888\" srcset=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-06-28-at-10.50.37-AM-1024x225.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-06-28-at-10.50.37-AM-300x66.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-06-28-at-10.50.37-AM-768x169.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-06-28-at-10.50.37-AM.jpeg 1366w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=com.techi.chikucab&amp;hl=en_IN\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Chiku Cab App Download<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_by_Road_from_Kochi_Bengaluru_Chennai_and_Hyderabad\"><\/span>Sabarimala by Road from Kochi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Starting City<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Route<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Distance<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Kottayam<\/td><td>Ponkunnam, Erumeli<\/td><td>94 km to Pamba<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Kochi (Ernakulam)<\/td><td>Pala, Erumeli<\/td><td>145 km to Pamba<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Thiruvananthapuram<\/td><td>Kottarakkara, Adoor, Pathanamthitta<\/td><td>167 km to Pamba<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Coimbatore<\/td><td>Palakkad, Thrissur, Erumeli<\/td><td>330 km to Sabarimala<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bengaluru<\/td><td>Salem, Coimbatore, Palakkad<\/td><td>600\u2013650 km to Pamba<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Chennai<\/td><td>Madurai, Theni, Kumily<\/td><td>780 km to Sabarimala<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Hyderabad<\/td><td>Bengaluru, Salem, Coimbatore<\/td><td>Approximately 1,100\u20131,150 km to Pamba<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pilgrims from Delhi and other northern states fly into Kochi or Thiruvananthapuram, or take a train to Chengannur, and finish the trip by road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Sabarimala Yatra 2026-27, we provide sedans, SUVs and tempo travellers, with pickups in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Coimbatore, Bengaluru and Chennai. Fare starts from \u20b910\/km. Our drivers know the Erumeli and Pathanamthitta roads, the Nilakkal parking bays and the Pamba drop rules, and they wait at Nilakkal while you finish darshan. Groups of 12 or fewer can pick a 12-seater tempo traveller and still get dropped at Pamba. Senior citizens get up to 20% off on pilgrimage trips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nearest_Railway_Station_and_Airport\"><\/span>Nearest Railway Station and Airport<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Chengannur, known as the Gateway of Sabarimala, is the main railhead, 90 km from Pamba via Ranni.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Two other stations serve pilgrims well, Thiruvalla at 86 km and Kottayam at 94 km via Erumeli.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For flights, Kochi International Airport is the closest at 154 km from Sabarimala.Pilgrims arriving at Kochi can book a <a href=\"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/cochin\/cochin-airport-to-sabarimala-taxi.html\">Cochin Airport to Sabarimala taxi<\/a>  for convenient onward travel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Thiruvananthapuram airport, 170 km away, works for pilgrims taking the Adoor and Pathanamthitta road.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_Accommodation_near_Pamba_and_Nilakkal\"><\/span>Sabarimala Accommodation near Pamba and Nilakkal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">TDB rooms at Sannidhanam can be booked on sabarimalaonline.org under the accommodation tab. At Pamba, last season&#8217;s nadapandals and the large German pandal held 10,000 pilgrims at a time. Nilakkal has rest sheds, toilets and the KSRTC hub next to the parking grounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a proper bed the night before, hotels and lodges in Pathanamthitta, Ranni, Erumeli and Kottayam work well. Coming in from Kochi or Kottayam, we suggest a night at Erumeli. You can visit Vavar Palli and the Erumeli Sree Dharma Sastha temple in the evening and reach Nilakkal before dawn the next day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<!-- ChikuCab Contact CTA -->\n<div class=\"chikucab-contact-cta\">\n\n  <div class=\"chikucab-trusted\">\n    <span class=\"chikucab-shield\">\u2662<\/span>\n    TRUSTED BY 2.5 Lakh+ Happy Customers\n  <\/div>\n\n  <h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Planning_Your_Sabarimala_Yatra_2026%E2%80%9327\"><\/span>Planning Your Sabarimala Yatra 2026\u201327?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n  <p>\n    Planning your pilgrimage to Sabarimala? Contact ChikuCab\n    for convenient cab booking to Nilakkal or Pamba, suitable\n    travel options and fare details based on your journey.\n  <\/p>\n\n  <div class=\"chikucab-buttons\">\n\n    <!-- CALL BUTTON -->\n    <a href=\"tel:+918448445504\" class=\"chikucab-call-btn\">\n      <span class=\"chikucab-phone-icon\">\u260e<\/span>\n      <span>Call +91-8448445504<\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n    <!-- WHATSAPP BUTTON -->\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/api.whatsapp.com\/send?phone=916280820037&amp;text=Hi!\" class=\"chikucab-whatsapp-btn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">\n      <span class=\"chikucab-whatsapp-icon\">\u25c9<\/span>\n      <span>WhatsApp Us<\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n  <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<style>\n\n\/* =========================================\n   CHIKUCAB CONTACT SECTION\n   MAIN BACKGROUND: #E30613\n========================================= *\/\n\n.chikucab-contact-cta {\n  width: 100%;\n  box-sizing: border-box;\n  background: #E30613;\n  padding: 44px 20px 46px;\n  text-align: center;\n  font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\n}\n\n\/* TRUSTED TEXT *\/\n\n.chikucab-trusted {\n  color: #FFD329;\n  font-size: 18px;\n  font-weight: 700;\n  letter-spacing: 0.2px;\n  margin-bottom: 22px;\n}\n\n.chikucab-shield {\n  display: inline-flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  justify-content: center;\n  margin-right: 8px;\n  font-size: 25px;\n  font-weight: bold;\n}\n\n\/* HEADING *\/\n\n.chikucab-contact-cta h2 {\n  margin: 0 0 14px;\n  color: #ffffff;\n  font-size: 40px;\n  line-height: 1.2;\n  font-weight: 700;\n}\n\n\/* DESCRIPTION *\/\n\n.chikucab-contact-cta p {\n  margin: 0 auto 32px;\n  max-width: 760px;\n  color: #ffe1e1;\n  font-size: 21px;\n  line-height: 1.45;\n}\n\n\/* BUTTON CONTAINER *\/\n\n.chikucab-buttons {\n  display: flex;\n  justify-content: center;\n  align-items: center;\n  gap: 19px;\n}\n\n\/* COMMON BUTTON *\/\n\n.chikucab-buttons a {\n  min-height: 72px;\n  box-sizing: border-box;\n  border-radius: 15px;\n  display: flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  justify-content: center;\n  gap: 12px;\n  text-decoration: none !important;\n  font-size: 21px;\n  font-weight: 700;\n  transition: all 0.25s ease;\n}\n\n\/* =========================================\n   CALL BUTTON\n========================================= *\/\n\n.chikucab-call-btn {\n  width: 300px;\n  background: #FFD329;\n  color: #000000 !important;\n  box-shadow: 0 12px 25px rgba(80, 0, 0, 0.25);\n}\n\n.chikucab-call-btn:hover {\n  background: #FFE05A;\n  transform: translateY(-2px);\n}\n\n\/* PHONE ICON *\/\n\n.chikucab-phone-icon {\n  font-size: 27px;\n  line-height: 1;\n}\n\n\/* =========================================\n   WHATSAPP BUTTON\n========================================= *\/\n\n.chikucab-whatsapp-btn {\n  width: 251px;\n  background: #303B4F;\n  border: 1px solid #687386;\n  color: #ffffff !important;\n}\n\n.chikucab-whatsapp-btn:hover {\n  background: #3C485D;\n  transform: translateY(-2px);\n}\n\n\/* WHATSAPP ICON *\/\n\n.chikucab-whatsapp-icon {\n  font-size: 27px;\n  line-height: 1;\n}\n\n\/* =========================================\n   MOBILE RESPONSIVE\n========================================= *\/\n\n@media (max-width: 700px) {\n\n  .chikucab-contact-cta {\n    padding: 35px 16px 38px;\n  }\n\n  .chikucab-trusted {\n    font-size: 15px;\n    margin-bottom: 18px;\n  }\n\n  .chikucab-contact-cta h2 {\n    font-size: 29px;\n    line-height: 1.25;\n    margin-bottom: 13px;\n  }\n\n  .chikucab-contact-cta p {\n    font-size: 17px;\n    line-height: 1.5;\n    margin-bottom: 27px;\n  }\n\n  .desktop-break {\n    display: none;\n  }\n\n  .chikucab-buttons {\n    flex-direction: column;\n    width: 100%;\n    gap: 13px;\n  }\n\n  .chikucab-buttons a {\n    width: 100%;\n    max-width: 390px;\n    min-height: 62px;\n    border-radius: 13px;\n    font-size: 18px;\n  }\n\n  .chikucab-phone-icon {\n    font-size: 24px;\n  }\n\n  .chikucab-whatsapp-icon {\n    font-size: 24px;\n  }\n\n}\n\n<\/style>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sabarimala_Yatra_2026-27_FAQs\"><\/span>Sabarimala Yatra 2026-27 FAQs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_When_will_Sabarimala_Temple_open_for_the_2026%E2%80%9327_Mandala-Makaravilakku_season\"><\/span>1. When will Sabarimala Temple open for the 2026\u201327 Mandala-Makaravilakku season?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sabarimala temple opens at 5 PM on Monday, 16 November 2026. The new Melsanthi takes charge that evening, and Mandala Kalam poojas begin at 3 AM on 17 November.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_What_are_the_Sabarimala_Yatra_2026%E2%80%9327_opening_and_closing_dates\"><\/span>2. What are the Sabarimala Yatra 2026\u201327 opening and closing dates?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sabarimala Yatra 2026-27 opens on 16 November 2026, and the Mandala phase ends on 27 December. After reopening on 30 December for Makaravilakku, the temple shuts for the season on 20 January 2027.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Makaravilakku_2027_kab_hai_and_what_is_the_exact_date_of_the_festival\"><\/span>3. Makaravilakku 2027 kab hai, and what is the exact date of the festival?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Makaravilakku 2027 is on 14 January, a Thursday that coincides with Makara Sankramam. Priests light the lamp at Ponnambalamedu that evening, just after the Deeparadhana at Sannidhanam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_When_is_Mandala_Pooja_at_Sabarimala_in_2026\"><\/span>4. When is Mandala Pooja at Sabarimala in 2026?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mandala Pooja 2026 is on Sunday, 27 December, the 41st day of Mandala Kalam. For the noon pooja, the deity is dressed in the golden Thanka Anki.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_What_is_the_complete_Sabarimala_temple_opening_schedule_for_2026%E2%80%9327\"><\/span>5. What is the complete Sabarimala temple opening schedule for 2026\u201327?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Mandala season covers 16 November \u2013 27 December 2026, and Makaravilakku season covers 30 December 2026 \u2013 20 January 2027. Monthly poojas follow in Kumbham (12\u201316 February), Meenam (14\u201318 March), Vishu (10\u201319 April) and Edavam (14\u201318 May 2027).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_How_can_I_check_the_official_Sabarimala_darshan_dates_and_daily_timings\"><\/span>6. How can I check the official Sabarimala darshan dates and daily timings?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">TDB posts official dates and timings on sabarimalaonline.org. In season, darshan is open 3 AM \u2013 1 PM and 3 PM \u2013 11 PM, with extra hours on heavy days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_How_can_I_book_Sabarimala_virtual_queue_tickets_online_for_the_2026%E2%80%9327_season\"><\/span>7. How can I book Sabarimala virtual queue tickets online for the 2026\u201327 season?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Register on sabarimalaonline.org with your mobile number, add each pilgrim&#8217;s photo and ID, and pick a date and time slot. Download the QR pass and keep a printout. Up to 10 pilgrims can share one booking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Is_online_virtual_queue_registration_mandatory_for_Sabarimala_darshan\"><\/span>8. Is online virtual queue registration mandatory for Sabarimala darshan?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. A Virtual-Q pass is compulsory and free. Spot counters at Pamba, Nilakkal and Erumeli issue limited passes, and the High Court cut them to 5,000 a day in November 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_When_should_devotees_start_the_41-day_Mandala_Vratham_for_Sabarimala_Yatra_2026\"><\/span>9. When should devotees start the 41-day Mandala Vratham for Sabarimala Yatra 2026?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Count 41 days back, with your darshan date as the last day. Wear the mala on 17 November 2026 for Mandala Pooja, or on 5 December 2026 for Makaravilakku.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_What_are_the_rules_and_rituals_of_the_41-day_Ayyappa_Swamy_Vratham\"><\/span>10. What are the rules and rituals of the 41-day Ayyappa Swamy Vratham?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Devotees wear a blessed tulasi or rudraksha mala, eat only vegetarian food and give up alcohol and tobacco. Celibacy, black or blue clothes, and prayers at dawn and dusk are part of all 41 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_What_is_the_significance_of_Mandala_Pooja_and_Makaravilakku_at_Sabarimala\"><\/span>11. What is the significance of Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku at Sabarimala?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mandala Pooja marks the end of the 41-day penance, with the deity adorned in the Thanka Anki. On Makaravilakku, Lord Ayyappa wears the Thiruvabharanam ornaments brought on foot from Pandalam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_What_is_the_difference_between_Makaravilakku_and_Makarajyothi\"><\/span>12. What is the difference between Makaravilakku and Makarajyothi?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Makarajyothi is a star seen rising in the eastern sky at dusk on Makara Sankranti. Makaravilakku is a lamp lit three times on Ponnambalamedu hill once the Deeparadhana ends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Where_can_devotees_see_Makarajyothi_during_Sabarimala_Makaravilakku_2027\"><\/span>13. Where can devotees see Makarajyothi during Sabarimala Makaravilakku 2027?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Police mark ten official viewpoints. Sannidhanam, Pandithavalam, Marakoottam, Pamba Hill Top, Pullumedu and Neelimala are the busiest spots on Makaravilakku evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_What_is_the_significance_of_the_sacred_18_steps_at_Sabarimala_Temple\"><\/span>14. What is the significance of the sacred 18 steps at Sabarimala Temple?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Pathinettam Padi is the flight of 18 steps leading to the sanctum. Devotees link the steps to 18 hills, or to the senses, emotions and gunas a pilgrim leaves behind. Only those carrying the Irumudi may climb it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_What_is_the_Irumudi_Kettu_and_is_it_required_to_climb_the_18_sacred_steps\"><\/span>15. What is the Irumudi Kettu, and is it required to climb the 18 sacred steps?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Irumudi Kettu is a two-part cloth bundle, with the ghee-filled coconut and pooja items in front and food at the back. Yes, it&#8217;s required for the 18 steps. Pilgrims without one use the northern gate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"16_What_are_the_dress_code_and_essential_items_required_for_Sabarimala_Yatra\"><\/span>16. What are the dress code and essential items required for Sabarimala Yatra?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wear a black, blue or saffron mundu or dhoti. Carry your Irumudi, Virtual-Q pass, original ID, a torch, a raincoat and a steel water bottle, since plastic is banned on the hill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"17_How_can_I_reach_Sabarimala_Temple_from_Kochi_Kottayam_or_Thiruvananthapuram\"><\/span>17. How can I reach Sabarimala Temple from Kochi, Kottayam, or Thiruvananthapuram?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By road, Pamba is 145 km from Kochi via Erumeli, 94 km from Kottayam and 167 km from Thiruvananthapuram via Pathanamthitta. Chiku Cab sends sedans, SUVs and tempo travellers on all three routes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"18_What_are_the_nearest_railway_stations_and_airports_for_Sabarimala_pilgrims\"><\/span>18. What are the nearest railway stations and airports for Sabarimala pilgrims?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thiruvalla (86 km), Chengannur (90 km) and Kottayam (94 km) are the closest railway stations. Kochi airport is 154 km away, and Thiruvananthapuram airport is 170 km away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"19_What_are_the_trekking_routes_accommodation_options_and_food_facilities_available_for_Sabarimala_Yatra\"><\/span>19. What are the trekking routes, accommodation options, and food facilities available for Sabarimala Yatra?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most pilgrims walk the 5 km Pamba to Sannidhanam trek, while Swami Ayyappan Road is gentler. TDB rooms, Pamba nadapandals and Nilakkal rest sheds handle stays, and free annadanam meals are served at Sannidhanam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"20_What_are_the_important_travel_guidelines_and_crowd-management_rules_for_Sabarimala_Makaravilakku_2027\"><\/span>20. What are the important travel guidelines and crowd-management rules for Sabarimala Makaravilakku 2027?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Book Virtual-Q early, since the Makaravilakku day quota was 30,000 in 2026, and reach Pamba within your printed slot. Follow police barricades at viewpoints, and we suggest planning your return for the next morning.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Sabarimala Yatra 2026-27: Dates, Opening Schedule and Makaravilakku Date Sabarimala Yatra 2026-27 begins on Monday, 16 November 2026, when the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-14359","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-travel-guide"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14359","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14359"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14359\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14359"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14359"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chikucab.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14359"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}