Sabarimala, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in South India. It is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, attracting millions of devotees annually, particularly during the Mandala season (November to January) and the Makaravilakku festival. Sabarimala packages from Cochin are designed to ensure a smooth, spiritual, and comfortable journey for pilgrims.
Package Overview
Starting Point: Cochin International Airport/Railway Station/Hotel
Duration: Typically 2 to 3 days.
Transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicles or group bus options
Inclusions: Transportation, accommodation, guidance, meals (optional), and assistance with temple rituals
Itinerary for 2 Days/1 Night Sabarimala Pilgrimage Tour from Cochin
Itinerary
Day 1: Cochin to Sabarimala
Early Morning Departure: Pick-up from Cochin International Airport/Railway Station/Hotel (at around 6:00 AM).
Drive to Pamba (Approx. 160 km / 4-5 hours): Enjoy a scenic drive through Kerala’s lush greenery and hills as you make your way to the base of Sabarimala at Pamba.
Stop at Erumely: Visit the Vavar Mosque, an essential stop for devotees on the way to Sabarimala, symbolizing religious harmony.
Arrival at Pamba: On arrival, devotees will take a bath in the holy Pamba River, considered sacred before starting the climb to Sabarimala.
Trek to Sannidhanam: Begin the 4-5 km trek from Pamba to Sannidhanam (Sabarimala temple complex). Pilgrims generally climb the hills barefoot, chanting "Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa."
Assistance Available: For elderly or disabled pilgrims, doli (palanquin) services can be arranged for the trek.
Darshan & Offerings: After reaching the temple, perform rituals, offer prayers, and have darshan of Lord Ayyappa.
Overnight Stay Options: After darshan, devotees can choose to rest for the night at nearby accommodations (basic dormitories or hotels).
Day 2: Return to Cochin
Morning Temple Visit: Pilgrims can visit the temple again for early morning darshan and participate in rituals such as Neyyabhishekam (offering ghee to Lord Ayyappa).
Trek Back to Pamba: After completing the darshan and rituals, return to Pamba via the same trekking route.
Drive Back to Cochin: Post-lunch, start the return journey to Cochin, with estimated arrival by evening (around 6:00 PM).
3 Days/2 Nights Sabarimala Pilgrimage Tour Package from Cochin
Day 1: Cochin to Erumely
Departure from Cochin: Early morning pick-up from Cochin (airport, railway station, or hotel).
Drive to Erumely: Stop at Erumely to visit the Vavar Mosque and Sastha Temple. This is an important part of the Sabarimala pilgrimage, where pilgrims pay homage to Lord Ayyappa's companion Vavar.
Overnight Stay: At a hotel in Erumely.
Day 2: Erumely to Sabarimala
Morning Departure to Pamba: Drive from Erumely to Pamba (approx. 2 hours).
Trek to Sannidhanam: After bathing in the Pamba River, start the trek to the Sabarimala temple.
Darshan & Temple Rituals: Participate in the rituals and offer prayers to Lord Ayyappa. You may stay near the temple for night rituals.
Overnight Stay: Pilgrims may rest in dormitories or basic accommodations near the temple complex.
Day 3: Sabarimala to Cochin
Early Morning Darshan: Participate in the morning pooja and rituals like Neyyabhishekam.
Return to Pamba: Trek back to Pamba after darshan.
Drive Back to Cochin: After lunch, drive back to Cochin, arriving in the late afternoon or evening.
Inclusions in Sabarimala Pilgrimage Packages:
Transportation: Private air-conditioned car, SUV, or bus depending on the package and group size.
Accommodation: Basic dormitory, budget hotels, or premium stay options (depending on the package) near Erumely, Pamba, or Sannidhanam.
Meals: Can be included as part of the package (vegetarian meals only) or on your own at local eateries.
Assistance: Local guide/escort for the pilgrimage, assisting with temple rituals, doli services (optional).
Pooja Kits & Offerings: Assistance in purchasing pooja kits (like ghee, coconuts, and other offerings) for temple rituals.
Package Exclusions:
Special poojas or additional rituals (can be arranged upon request).
Personal expenses (shopping, tips, snacks, etc.).
Optional Doli service for the trek (available at an extra charge).
Package Cost:
The cost of the package varies depending on factors such as:
Transportation Type: Whether you opt for a private car, SUV, or bus.
Group Size: Larger groups may benefit from group discounts.
Accommodation Level: Budget to premium accommodations available.
Meal Plans: Whether you choose to include meals in your package.
Estimated Package Prices (starting range):
2 Days/1 Night Package: INR 4,500 – INR 8,000 per person (depending on accommodation and services).
3 Days/2 Nights Package: INR 6,000 – INR 10,000 per person (depending on accommodation and services).
Important Notes:
Dress Code: Pilgrims are expected to wear traditional attire (mundu) and maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness during the pilgrimage.
Health Considerations: The trek to Sabarimala involves steep climbs, so pilgrims must be physically fit.
Sabarimala Season: The peak pilgrimage season is from November to January (Mandala-Makaravilakku), and it is recommended to book packages in advance for this period.
Sabarimala packages from Cochin are designed to offer a spiritual journey with ease, comfort, and guidance, allowing pilgrims to focus on their devotion and rituals while ensuring smooth transportation and logistics.