Divya Kshetra · Pathanamthitta · Kerala

Sabarimala Temple

The Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Sree Dharma Sastha where the deity is worshipped as Lord Ayyappan, the son of the deities Shiva and Mohini

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About Sabarimala Temple

Sabarimala Temple

Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, is the most famous and prominent among all the Sastha temples in Kerala.

The temple is situated on a hilltop (about 3000 feet above sea level) named Sabarimala in Pathanamthitta district, which is unique. The temple is open to people belonging to all religions. There is a place near the temple; east of Sannidhanam (the abode of Lord Ayyappa), dedicated to Vavar (a close friend of Lord Ayyappa) which is called Vavaru Nada, an epitome of religious harmony. Another unique aspect of this temple is that it is not open throughout the year.

It is open for worship only during the days of Mandalapooja, Makaravilakku, Vishu and also during the first day of every Malayalam month. It is said that the pilgrims have to observe celibacy for 41 days before going to Sabarimala. Pilgrims take the traditional forest routes as well as the one from Pamba which is less physically challenging to reach the temple.

Location

Pathanamthitta

Deity

Ayyappan

State

Kerala

District

Pathanamthitta

Dress Code

Visitors are expected to wear modest and traditional attire while visiting the temple.

Men
  • Dhoti (Veshti) with or without a shirt.
  • Full-length pants with a shirt or kurta.
  • Pyjama with a shirt or kurta.
Women
  • Saree
  • Salwar Kameez / Churidar with dupatta.
  • Pavadai–Davani (Half Saree).
Not Permitted
  • Shorts or Bermudas.
  • Sleeveless or revealing dresses.
  • Tight leggings worn as the only lower garment.
  • Torn or inappropriate clothing.
Devotee Guidelines:
  • Wear clean, decent, and respectful clothing suitable for a place of worship.
  • Traditional Indian attire is encouraged, especially during festivals and special poojas.
  • Remove footwear before entering the temple premises.


Do's:
  • Dress modestly in traditional or decent attire.
  • Remove your footwear before entering the temple premises.
  • Maintain silence and respect the sanctity of the temple.
  • Follow the instructions of temple authorities and security personnel.
  • Stand patiently in the darshan queue.
  • Deposit mobile phones, cameras, and prohibited items in the designated counters if required.
  • Keep the temple premises clean by using dustbins.
  • Stay hydrated, especially if you climb the 693 steps to the hilltop shrine.

Don'ts:

  • Do not wear revealing, torn, or inappropriate clothing.
  • Do not consume alcohol, tobacco, or intoxicating substances before or inside the temple.
  • Do not carry plastic bags or litter the temple premises.
  • Do not take photographs or videos in prohibited areas, especially inside the sanctum (Garbhagriha).
  • Do not jump queues or push other devotees.
  • Do not touch the idols, temple structures, or decorations unless permitted.
  • Do not bring pets into the temple premises.
  • Do not engage in loud conversations or play music inside the temple.
  • Do not accept prasadam or services from unauthorized persons.

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Temple Location

Sabarimala Temple

Pathanamthitta, Pathanamthitta
Kerala