The 'Vratham' is a 41-day period of austerity and spiritual discipline observed by devotees before the pilgrimage. It includes wearing black or blue attire, following a strict vegetarian diet, abstaining from worldly pleasures, and engaging in regular prayers. While it is a traditional and highly recommended practice to prepare the mind and body for the pilgrimage, the level of observance can vary among devotees. It is central to the spiritual experience of the Sabarimala journey.

Yes, there are specific entry restrictions. The Sabarimala temple traditionally restricts the entry of girls and women between the ages of 10 and 50. This is based on long-standing customs associated with the celibate nature of the deity, Lord Ayyappa. There are no restrictions for men or for females outside this age group.

The 'Irumudi Kettu' is a sacred, two-compartment bag carried by pilgrims. The front pouch ('Munmudi') contains offerings for Lord Ayyappa like coconuts filled with ghee, while the rear pouch ('Pinmudi') holds the pilgrim's personal items. Carrying the Irumudi is a traditional requirement, especially for those climbing the holy 18 steps (Pathinettam Padi) for the first time. Our experienced guides can help you understand the process of preparing and carrying the Irumudi.

Darshan at Sabarimala must be pre-booked through the official Sabarimala Virtual-Q online portal. It is mandatory for all pilgrims to register and book a specific date and time slot for their darshan. This system helps manage the crowd and reduces waiting times. You will need to provide a valid photo ID during the booking process and carry it with you during the pilgrimage. We can provide guidance on how to navigate the booking portal.

The trek is about 4-5 kilometers uphill and can be physically demanding, especially for the elderly or those with health conditions. The path is well-laid but steep in certain sections. The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours depending on your fitness level and the crowd. For those who find the trek difficult, 'Dolly' services (a palanquin carried by four people) are available for a fee. It is advisable to be in good physical health and to walk at a comfortable pace.

Accommodation at Pamba, the base camp, is basic and primarily consists of large dormitory-style halls ('nadappanthals') and basic rooms provided by the Travancore Devaswom Board and private operators. The facilities are designed to cater to a large number of pilgrims and focus on essentials. Our package includes pre-booked basic accommodation to ensure you have a place to rest before and after your trek.