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How to Reach Sabarimala

Sabarimala, located in Kerala’s Western Ghats, is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in India. Millions of devotees visit every year to seek the blessings of Lord Ayyappa. The journey itself is considered a sacred experience, combining travel by train, road, and a final trek. Pilgrims can reach Sabarimala through modern routes via train, road, and the short Pamba trek, or embrace the traditional Kanana Padha/Pedapadham forest trail from Erumeli. Each path reflects a different aspect of devotion, but both lead to the sacred presence of Lord Ayyappa.

By Train

The nearest railway stations that connect to Pamba (the base camp of Sabarimala) are:
• Chengannur – 86 km to Pamba
• Kottayam – 94 km to Pamba
• Thiruvalla – 99 km to Pamba
Regular KSRTC buses and taxis operate from these stations to Pamba. During the Mandala–Makaravilakku season, special services are arranged exclusively for pilgrims.

By Air

• Cochin International Airport (160 km to Pamba) – the most commonly used option.
• Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (170 km to Pamba) – also well connected.
From both airports, pilgrims can continue their journey to Pamba by bus or taxi.

By Road

KSRTC provides frequent and seasonal special services from Kochi, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, and Thiruvananthapuram directly to Pamba. Private taxis and vans are also available, though vehicle access is restricted close to the Pampa due to crowd management.

Trek Routes
1. Hill Route from Pamba

• Distance: ~5 km uphill from Pamba to Sannidhanam.
• Facilities: Shelters, drinking water points, and medical stations..
• Best suited for: Families, elderly pilgrims, and those seeking a shorter trek.

2. Kanana Padha (Periya Paathai / Pedhapadham) – The Traditional Long Trail

The ancient forest route begins at Erumeli and covers approximately 46 km to Sannidhanam. Once believed to be 48 miles (77 km), the trail has been shortened over time. Distance chart (approx):
• Erumeli → Azhutha: 18 km (tarmac, gravel, pebbles)
• Kalakkatti – Azhutha – Karivalamthodu: 12.8 km
◦ Alternative: via Ariyakudi village, +3 km but avoids steep hill climb (mud/plain roads)
• Karivalamthodu → Valiyana Vattom: 8 km (subject to ±2 km variation due to forest reroutes)
• Valiyana Vattom → Pamba: 3 km (earlier pilgrims bypassed Pamba, climbing Neelimala directly)
• Pamba → Sannidhanam: 5 km final climb
👉 Total distance today: ~46 km (not 48 miles, as some still claim).

This trail retraces the steps believed to have been taken by Lord Ayyappa himself and is chosen by devotees carrying the Irumudi Kettu as part of their vows.

📅 Route Opening Dates for Pedapadham

  • The traditional forest route is opened only during the primary pilgrimage season, often aligned with the Mandala – Makaravilakku period.
  • Usually the forest path via Karimala (traditional route) will reopened for pilgrims on December 31st
  • Generally, the traditional route becomes accessible after the Kodiyettu (flag-hoisting) at the start of the season and remains open through the duration of the pilgrimage period.
  • Outside that window, the forest path is closed for environmental, safety, and forest preservation reasons.
Pilgrims must check the official Sabarimala / Travancore Devaswom Board announcements each year to confirm the exact opening date for the Pedapadham route before planning their journey.