Place and CommunitySabarimala is a famous pilgrimage destination in Kerala. His festival is attended by thousands of people from all across the world.
MonthSabarimala festival is celebrated in the months of November-January.
DescriptionSabarimala temple is located on the top of the hills of the Western Ghats. The holy shrine in Sabarimala is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. Thousands of devotees visit Sabarimala during the months of November-January when the main festival takes place.
The devotees who visit the temple during the festival walk barefoot through the uneven road to reach the temple. Before taking the trip the devotees fast and surrender themselves to the will of God for 40 days. They do not drink or smoke, eat selected food, sleep on the floor and stay away from women and family during this period. Irrespective of caste and creed they wear black dhotis and carry offerings like coconut filled with ghee, camphor and rice.
People take a dip in the river on their way to the temple. It is believed that people who take a dip in the holy waters of the river are cleansed of all sins. People also visit the Muslim God on their way to Sabarimala who is believed to be a close friend of Lord Ayyappa. People start chanting the Lord’s name on witnessing a glowing flame on the hill opposite the temple. Mandala Pooja festival is an important part of Sabarimala festival. It begins 41 days before Makar Sankranti and continues for 41 days. Makara Villaku Pooja Festival is the most important part of the festival and lasts for seven days.
(DOU 18092007) 
