Being an asset to the Kerala state, positioned in the Western Ghats of Pathanamthitta, a tropical region located at the southernmost tip of India, Sabrimala is one of the most well-known pilgrimage centers in Kerala.
The Sabrimala Sree Ayyapa temple despite being a remote shrine located in the southern part of the state witnesses approximately four million devotees every year. The Sabrimala shrine is placed deep in the midst of dense woods and mountains and can be a perfect place to meditate and rejuvenate oneself when on a vacation.
The idol of Ayyappa at the Sabrimala Dharmasastha temple is believed to have been installed by Parasurama Maharshi who apparently got back Kerala from the sea by simply propelling his axe. When setting out on a pilgrim to Sabrimala, devotees are expected to adhere to certain customs. While refraining from non vegetarian food and other carnal enjoyments of life, pilgrims who wish to attend the Mandalapooja need to follow asperity for around 41 days.
Known to be one of the few temples in the country that has no restrictions on caste and creed and welcomes people from all faiths, Sabrimala's pilgrimage commences in the month of November and ends in January. This is also the best time to visit the temple as it stays closed in the remaining part of the year. The only other time the temple is open is the first five days of the month Vishu in the Malayalam month.
It is quite a hassle free journey to the place. The best suitable time to visit Kerala is between November to March and August to September for which you have variety of travelling options:
By Air - Calicut Airport, Kochi (Ernakulum) International Airport and Kerala-Trivandrum International Airport
By Train - Direct trains to from Mumbai, Delhi, Madras, Calcutta, Bangalore and also other major cities in the country.
By Road - Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are connected directly by road while other cities through National Highways
After reaching Kerala the most convenient way to reach Sabrimala is through Chalakkayam. Via this place, travelers arrive along the banks of the Pamba River known to be the major stoppage by road on the way to the shrine. A trek of 4 to 5 kms from here and vacationers reach the temple destination minus any hassles.
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