SABARIMALA
Dedicated To: Lord Ayyappa
Altitude: 914 m Above Sea Level
Main Festival : Sabarimala Temple Festival
Sabarimala
is a renowned pilgrim centre atop the rugged hills of the Western Ghats.
This holy shrine is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The sanctum sanctoram
nestles 914 m above sea level, amidst the virgin forest wilderness of the
Western Ghats.
The Village of Sabarimala is named after Shabari who did severe penance
in order to meet Rama who granted her wish for her devotion and faith
during her penance.
The main pilgrimage is undertaken between November and January.
Regardless of caste, creed, colour, they wear black dhotis and carry on
their heads, bundles containing traditional offerings like coconut filled
with ghee, camphor and rice. The Main Festival - Sabarimala Festival
Sabarimala is one of the most important Hindu temples of Kerala. The
Sabarimala Temple festival is celebrated in honour of Lord Ayyapan who is
revered by all in India.
There are two main pujas called the Mandal Puja and the Makara Sankranti
Puja, which are celebrated from November to Middle of January in Kerala,
during which time the devotees perform austerities and penance.
The Penance
Devotees undergo rigorous penance and austere living before starting on
the pilgrimage. Devotees wear black 'dhotis' and are bare-chested as they
prepare for the pilgrimage to Sabarimala.
The temple is at the top of the Neeli hills and the devotees have to
climb the treacherous route carrying their meagre provision in a bundle
called "Iru Mudi" meaning in "two folds".
The distance from the base of the hill to the top takes about three days
to cover and the most important part of the pilgrimage are the final 18
steps, which lead to the temple. The temple dome is covered with gold and
the devotees break the coconuts before climbing the steps.
An Unmatched Instance of Religious Tolerance
Opposite
the main temple complex, there is a smaller temple for the Muslim god
called Wavar, who is an ally of Lord Ayyapa.
Signifying religious tolerance and harmony of the olden days, the
devotees pay obeisance to Lord Wavar, on their way to the main temple.
After the devotees complete their pujas and offerings, they return to the
base of the hill and return to their homes.
The people making the pilgrimage for the first time are known as "Kanni
Swamys" and the person leading the group is known as 'Guru Swamy' or
the lead person of a team who is incharge of all the rituals.
Devotees take a ritual bath, while climbing up the hill in the holy river
Pamba, which is believed to absolve one's sins.
Restricted Entry At The Festival Time in Sabarimala
Only young girls who have not attained womanhood and old women who have
reached menopause are allowed to worship at this time.
The men must vow to walk bare foot, not cut their nails and hair, sleep
on the floor and practise absolute abstinence during the period of their
penance.
HOW TO GO TO SABARIMALA
Transportation is available upto Pamba, from where one has to travel a distance of 5 kms on foot. Devotees undertake rigorous penance, ritualistic vows and fasts before they visit the temple.
(Check all that apply)
Know more about this Package !!!
279/A, Masjid Moth, South Extention - II
New Delhi - 110 049 (INDIA)
Tel : +91-11-4164 3999 / 2626 2004
Fax : +91-11-2625 9695
Email : info@indiainfoweb.com
Home | Attractions | Destinations | Hotels | Tour Packages | Travel Agents | Help DeskDisclaimer | Privacy Policy | Old Site | Feedback / Contact Us
Copyright © 2007 India Infoweb. All Rights Reserved.