Sabarimala, the hilltop shrine of Lord Ayyappa in Kerala’s Western Ghats, draws millions of devotees each pilgrimage season. Darshan during the busy season requires a free Virtual-Q booking on the official portal, sabarimalaonline.org. Here is everything you need for the 2026–27 season — dates, booking steps, timings, and how to reach the temple.
Sabarimala 2026–27 Season Dates
The main pilgrimage season runs from mid-November 2026 to mid-January 2027, built around two phases: Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku.
Outside this season, the temple also opens for monthly poojas for about five days at the start of each Malayalam month, plus festivals such as Vishu and Onam.
| Event | Start | End |
|---|---|---|
| Mandala Pooja Mahotsavam (season opens) | 16 Nov 2026 | 27 Dec 2026 |
| Mandala Pooja | 27 Dec 2026 | — |
| Temple reopens for Makaravilakku | 30 Dec 2026 | — |
| Makaravilakku / Makara Jyothi | 14 Jan 2027 | — |
| Makaravilakku season ends | — | 20 Jan 2027 |
These dates follow the temple’s usual calendar. The Travancore Devaswom Board confirms the final 2026–27 schedule on its official calendar. We will update you with the latest information as soon as it is made available by the officials.
How to Book Sabarimala Darshan Online (Virtual-Q)
Virtual-Q booking is free and mandatory for darshan during the Mandala–Makaravilakku season. Book early, as the Makara Jyothi slot on 14 January fills up fastest.
- Visit the official portal at sabarimalaonline.org and register with your mobile number or email.
- Open the Virtual-Q section and pick your darshan date and slot.
- Enter each pilgrim’s name, address and a valid government ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID or Passport). Up to five pilgrims can be added per booking.
- Submit, then download or print your darshan coupon.
You can also pre-book prasadam such as Aravana and Appam, and limited accommodation, through the same portal. Children below five years do not need a Virtual-Q coupon.
Sabarimala Darshan Timings
During the season, the shrine typically opens around 4:00–5:00 AM and closes late at night after the Harivarasanam hymn (about 11:00 PM), with a midday break between pooja sessions.
Timings shift slightly on peak days and during monthly poojas, so confirm the schedule for your travel date before setting out.
How to Reach Sabarimala
All routes converge at Pamba, the last motorable point, from where it is about a 5 km trek uphill to the Sannidhanam (shrine).
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By air | Cochin International Airport (COK) is about 155 km away; Trivandrum (TRV) about 170 km. |
| By rail | Chengannur (about 85 km) is the nearest station; Kottayam, Tiruvalla and Ernakulam are also well connected. |
| By road | Drive or take a bus to the Nilakkal base camp (parking hub), then a KSRTC shuttle to Pamba. First-timers often take the traditional trek from Erumeli. |
Pilgrim Facilities & Prasadam
The Sannidhanam and base camps offer free meals (annadanam), drinking water, medical aid and police help desks throughout the season.
Doli (chair) services are available for elderly and differently-abled pilgrims on the trek. Prasadam and rooms are limited, so pre-book online where possible.
Tips for First-Time Pilgrims
Many devotees observe a 41-day vratham (austerity period) before the pilgrimage and wear black or blue attire. Carry your irumudikettu (offering bundle) and a valid ID matching your booking.
If you want a calmer darshan, avoid the Makara Jyothi day crowds and choose an earlier date in the Mandala season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is online booking mandatory for Sabarimala darshan?
Yes. A free Virtual-Q coupon from sabarimalaonline.org is mandatory for darshan during the Mandala–Makaravilakku season. Children below five are exempt.
When does Sabarimala open for the 2026–27 season?
The Mandala season is expected to open on 16 November 2026, and the Makaravilakku phase runs from 30 December 2026 to about 20 January 2027, with Makara Jyothi on 14 January 2027.
Is Virtual-Q booking free?
Yes, darshan booking is completely free, with up to five pilgrims allowed per booking. Prasadam and accommodation are charged separately.
Can women visit Sabarimala?
Traditionally, women of menstruating age (about 10–50) do not undertake the pilgrimage. The Supreme Court’s 2018 ruling allowing women of all ages is under review by a nine-judge bench, with hearings ongoing in 2026, so check the latest position before planning.
What is the nearest airport and railway station?
Cochin International Airport (about 155 km) is the nearest airport, and Chengannur (about 85 km) is the nearest railway station.
Sources
- Sabarimala Online — Official Virtual-Q & Prasadam Portal
- Travancore Devaswom Board — Sabarimala Temple Calendar
- Government of Kerala — Sabarimala Pooja Timings
- Kerala Tourism — How to Reach Sabarimala
- Supreme Court Sabarimala Entry Case — Background
Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.
