About Sabarimala Temple
Sabarimala Temple is a sacred sanctuary set amidst eighteen hills in the dense, evergreen forests of the Western Ghats within Kerala's Periyar Tiger Reserve. Dedicated to Lord Ayyappan (also known as Dharma Sastha), a deity worshipped as the embodiment of celibacy, truth, and righteousness, this revered shrine draws millions of devotees from across the globe each year.
The pilgrimage to Sabarimala is unique in its rigorous spiritual discipline. Pilgrims undertake a 41-day vow of austerities (known as Mandala Vratam), practicing strict vegetarianism, celibacy, prayer, and detachment from worldly comforts. Devotees carry the Irumudi Kettu—a sacred cloth bag containing offerings like ghee-filled coconuts—upon their heads during the arduous trek up the hill from Pamba to the sanctuary at Sannidhanam.
At the heart of the temple complex are the iconic Pathinettam Padi (18 sacred divine steps) leading to the sanctum sanctorum. Each step represents different spiritual principles and senses that must be mastered to attain divine consciousness. The atmosphere at Sabarimala during the peak season resonates with chants of 'Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa', creating a deeply moving spiritual experience.
History
The origin of Sabarimala is steeped in rich Vedic mythology and local folklore. According to sacred tradition, Lord Ayyappan was born from the divine union of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu in His enchantress avatar, Mohini. The child was found abandoned on the banks of the Pamba River by King Rajasekhara of the Pandalam Dynasty, who raised him as his own son under the name Manikandan.
As Manikandan grew, his divine nature became manifest. After fulfilling his earthly mission—which included defeating the demoness Mahishi to restore peace to the cosmos—Manikandan chose to ascend into the forest to reside in eternal meditation. He requested his adoptive father to construct a temple dedicated to him at the hilltop spot chosen by an arrow he shot into the wilderness.
Historically, legendary sage Parasurama is believed to have consecrated the original idol of Dharma Sastha at Sabarimala. Over the centuries, the shrine has evolved while preserving its ancient traditions, including its deep-rooted association with the Royal Family of Pandalam and the sacred shrine of Vavar Swamy, symbolizing religious harmony.