Sabarimala Ayyappa Swamy Temple, located in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage centers in India. Every year, millions of devotees visit this hill shrine to seek the blessings of Lord Ayyappa. The temple opens at specific times throughout the year for monthly poojas and special festivals. Below is the complete schedule of Sabarimala Temple Opening Dates for 2025–26.
About Sabarimala Temple
Sabarimala Temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, known as the celibate deity or Naishtika Brahmachari. Situated amid the lush forests of the Western Ghats, devotees undertake a 41-day vratham (austerity period) before visiting the temple. The temple remains open during the Mandala Pooja, Makaravilakku, and on the first five days of each Malayalam month.
Sabarimala Temple Opening and Closing Dates (October 2025 – January 2026)
Below are the tentative opening and closing dates for the upcoming pilgrimage season:
Month Opening Date Closing Date Occasion
October 2025 October 16 October 21 Thulam Masam Pooja
November 2025 November 15 November 20 Vrischikam Masam & Mandala Pooja Begins
December 2025 December 15 December 27 Mandala Pooja
January 2026 January 1 January 20 Makaravilakku Festival
Note: The dates may vary slightly based on the official announcement from the Travancore Devaswom Board.
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Important Festivals at Sabarimala Temple
1. Mandala Pooja
The Mandala Pooja marks the end of the 41-day vratham period observed by devotees. It usually falls in December and attracts huge crowds.
2. Makaravilakku Festival
Celebrated in January, this is one of the most significant events at Sabarimala. Devotees gather to witness the Makarajyothi – a sacred light that appears on the Ponnambalamedu hills.
3. Monthly Poojas
Apart from the major festivals, the temple opens for five days each month according to the Malayalam calendar, starting from the first day of each month.
Guidelines for Devotees Visiting Sabarimala
Follow the 41-day vratham strictly before the pilgrimage.
Carry only essential items as per temple norms.
Plastic is strictly prohibited in Sabarimala.
Elderly devotees should plan their journey considering the uphill trek.
Check official updates from the Travancore Devaswom Board before planning your visit.
How to Reach Sabarimala
By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), around 160 km away.
By Train: The closest railway station is Chengannur, about 90 km from Sabarimala.
By Road: KSRTC buses operate regular services from all major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Conclusion
The Sabarimala Temple Opening Dates 2025–26 mark the beginning of a sacred journey filled with devotion and discipline. Plan your pilgrimage in advance, follow the traditional practices, and seek the divine blessings of Lord Ayyappa Swamy for peace, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment.