Understand

Sabarimala holds a special place in the Western Ghats, classified as a reserved biosphere. Situated atop a hill at an impressive altitude of 1260 meters above sea level, the shrine is known as the Holy Abode or Sannidhanam. As visitors embark on the trek to Sabarimala, they traverse through the enchanting Pookavanam, deemed the Holy Garden of Lord Ayyappa, encompassing forests, mountains, and streams. According to ancient myths, Ayyappa, the son of Shiva and Vishnu, was destined to eliminate the demoness Mahashi, who could only be slain by a son born to two male gods. Mahashi, sister of the demon king Mahisasura, had been granted immense power through her boon and wreaked havoc upon mortals and even waged war against the gods. In order to vanquish her, Shiva sought the assistance of Vishnu, who assumed a female form known as Mohini to unite with Shiva. Thus, Ayyappa was born from their divine union. The baby was later discovered in the forests of Pathanamthitta and raised by the king of Pandalam, a nearby principality. In his late teens, Prince Ayyappa encountered the demoness during a hunting expedition and successfully defeated her, fulfilling his mission. Subsequently, Prince Ayyappa renounced worldly pleasures and embraced a rigorous ascetic lifestyle, devoting his life to deep yogic meditation in the forests. At his father's command, he granted his subjects the privilege of meeting him for only 41 days a year, showering blessings upon those who embarked on the arduous journey through the dense forest to seek his presence. The shrine itself, believed to have been constructed by Parasurama, an incarnation of Vishnu, perfectly blends into the pristine jungle. It consists of a sanctum sanctorum situated on a grand platform, reached via a sacred fleet of 18 steps. The temple opens for a limited duration of 41 days during the Malayalam month of Vrishickam (November-December). Additionally, it also opens for one week during the Makara Sankranti celebrations in January. Due to the overwhelming number of devotees, the temple administration has extended the opening period to include the first three days of every Malayalam month, as well as major Kerala festivals such as Vishu and Onam.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish: Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)Butter chicken is a rich and creamy curry made with marinated chicken pieces cooked in a tomato-based sauce. The dish originated in the Indian subcontinent and gained popularity in Canada due to the large population of Indian immigrants. It's typically served with basmati rice and naan bread. Butter chicken contains meat – chicken.

Dish: BiryaniBiryani is a popular rice dish made by cooking Basmati rice with meat (usually chicken, goat, or fish), vegetables, yogurt, and a blend of spices. It originates from the Indian subcontinent and is often considered the national dish of Pakistan. It's known for its flavorful layers and distinct aroma. Biryani contains meat – primarily chicken, goat, or fish.

Dish: SamosasSamosas are deep-fried or baked pastry snacks filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, onions, peas, and sometimes meat. They originate from South Asia and have become a popular street food across India. Often served as an appetizer or a quick snack, samosas can be found at roadside stalls, train stations, and even weddings. Samosas can contain meat – typically potatoes, onions, and peas, but some varieties may include meat such as chicken or lamb.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing