Sabarimala: The Divine Story

In mid-November (Karthigai 1), we embark on a 42-day fasting journey, culminating in the sacred ritual of Irumudi Kattu, signaling our readiness for the Sabarimala Yatra. This year, our 115-member group, traveling in two buses, has a meticulously planned four-day itinerary. An unforgettable experience in my soul, and I'm here to share it with you.

Day 1:

Our spiritual journey begins with the completion of Irumudi Kattu for our 115 members in Kayal Patnam, Thoothukudi district. Setting out on a serene bus ride of at least 8 hours, we make our way to Erumeli.

A crucial part of our pilgrimage is the mindful intake of sustenance. In this period, we opt for nourishing juices over hard foods, ensuring a spiritual and physical preparation for the sacred days that unfold on our path to Sabarimala.

Day 2:

After 8 hours, We reached Erumeli. Erumeli is a famous place for its Vavar mosque. Vavar was the friend and companion of Lord Ayyappa.

We danced the Pettai Thullal, celebrating Lord Ayyappa's triumph. Preparing us for the Periyapathi Yatra, a 52km trek encompassing three challenging hills.

The day began with a gentle stroll towards Perur Thodu. Then, the ascent began – Kalaketty, the first hill, yielded to our determination after 2 hours. A dharshan at the Kalaketty Sree Sivaparvathy Temple and a refreshing lunch (The Kerala special Soodu kappa kanji with Pickle - Must try) at Mukkuzhi fueled us for the more challenging Azhutha Mala.

The Wiseman said once, Azhutha Mala yetram yerum pothu Azhathavan kooda Azhuthuruvan.

Slow and focused steps under the fading light. Finally, Kari Mala, the steepest climb, awaited. Torches became our guiding lights as we navigated the single-track path, fatigue gnawing at our bones.

The Wiseman said once, கரிமலை ஏற்றம் கடினம் கடினம் கருணைக் கடலும் துணை வருவார்.

And we reached Pamba by 09.00 PM, we were reunited with our group. Compared to last year, it takes us an additional hour to reach Pamba. (Vayasu aairuchu la)

Day 3:

Pamba River's cool embrace greeted us at dawn, washing away the dust of the journey. We had a Poori with Sambar as a breakfast and a short rest later, we set off for the Sannidhanam.

Neelimalai's refreshing soda and pineapples offered a fleeting respite. But as we reached Saramkuthi, the human tide took over. We were locked in a slow-moving queue. Yet many, weary and defeated, turned back😥. In my personal opinion, the crowd is higher compared to last year. And we cannot see Ayyappan in easy. 

We persevered, fueled by unwavering faith. It took 16 long hours, but when the strains of "Harivarasanam" announced the closing of the temple doors, a strange peace settled over us. Most of them were asleep in the queue.

Day 4:

At 3.30 AM, the air vibrated with "Ayyappan Suprabhatham," announcing the day's darshan. The queue snaked forward, and finally, after 17 hours, we crossed the 18 steps.

There he was, Lord Ayyappa, resplendent in ghee abhishekam. The 16 hours of hardship, the struggle – all vanished in that blessed moment. "Ayyappa! Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa!" echoed in my heart, the only words that mattered.

The Wiseman said once, Ena than neenga Ayyappan kita ithulam sollanum nu nenaichalum avara pakkum pothu unga manasula ethuvume varathu. Ayyappa, Ayyappa or Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa, Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa ithu mattum than mind la odum.

To purchase Aravana, the queue is quite long. It took almost 2.5 hours to buy Aravana and appam. This year, the devasthanam board has imposed a restriction, allowing only 5 Aravana per person.

After 10.30 AM, we started our journey back to Pamba. Upon reaching Pamba, we boarded a Nilakkal bus and arrived at Nilakkal. We also purchased the famous Kerala chips at Punalur. 

Finally, we returned to my native place by midnight.

Need to avoid small kids during season time. 

Transportation Details:

During the peak season, numerous buses from both Tamil Nadu and Kerala are arranged for Sabarimala.

If you are an elderly person, there is a dolly service available for the journey from Pamba to Sannidhanam. They pick you up and drop you off at Sannidhanam. The cost is relatively high this year, with charges ranging from 4,500 to 6,000.

Packing Tips:

1. Lightweight sweater coat

2. Medical kit

3. Torch light

4. Water flask (Kerala government not allowing plastic bottles)

Magic's POV: Unna parthutan la athu pothum enaku ✨🙏

Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa!!