Sabarimala is a famous pilgrimage center located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. Chengannur, a town in Alappuzha district, is one of the closest major transit points for pilgrims heading to Sabarimala. This route is widely traveled during the pilgrimage season, especially in November to January.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Chengannur to Sabarimala. You will learn about train, bus, car options, and practical tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Chengannur to Sabarimala – Main Options

Train

Train travel is popular for reaching Chengannur, but the direct train to Sabarimala is not available. You can use trains to get close and then switch to road transport. Trains are comfortable and economical for long-distance travel.

• Chengannur Railway Station is well connected to major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Chennai, making it a convenient starting point for pilgrims.

• From Chengannur, you can take a train to Nilakkal station, which is the nearest railhead to Sabarimala, about 20 km away, but train frequency is limited and seasonal.

• Most pilgrims prefer to travel by train to Chengannur and then switch to bus or taxi for the final leg due to limited train options closer to Sabarimala.

• Train fares from major cities to Chengannur range from ₹200 to ₹800 depending on class and distance, with travel times varying from 3 to 10 hours.

• During peak pilgrimage season, trains can be crowded; booking tickets early via IRCTC is essential to secure seats.

Bus

Bus travel is the most common and direct way to reach Sabarimala from Chengannur. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) runs frequent services, especially during the pilgrimage season.

• KSRTC operates regular and special pilgrim buses from Chengannur bus station to Pamba, the base camp for Sabarimala, covering about 70 km in 3 to 4 hours.

• Bus fares typically range between ₹100 and ₹200, making it an affordable option for most travelers.

• Buses run frequently during the pilgrimage season (November to January) but may be limited off-season; booking tickets in advance during peak times is advisable.

• The route follows NH183 and SH67, passing through scenic Western Ghats but can be narrow and winding, so expect slower travel during monsoon months.

• KSRTC buses are generally comfortable with reserved seating, but expect crowding during festival days like Makara Jyothi.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Chengannur to Sabarimala offers flexibility and comfort, especially if traveling in a group or with family. The route is scenic but involves hilly terrain.

• The distance from Chengannur to Sabarimala is approximately 70 km via NH183 and SH67, taking around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Driving yourself allows stops at rest points like Ranni and Pamba, where you can find food stalls and clean washrooms.

• During the pilgrimage season, roads can be congested, and parking near Sabarimala is limited; arriving early is recommended to avoid delays.

• Toll plazas on NH183 may apply, so keep some cash handy; fuel stations are available along the route but plan refueling in Chengannur or Ranni.

• Monsoon rains can make roads slippery and foggy; check weather updates before starting your drive to ensure safety.

Flight

There is no direct flight option between Chengannur and Sabarimala as both are landlocked locations. The nearest airport is in Trivandrum, which is about 120 km away.

• Travellers can fly into Trivandrum International Airport and then take a taxi or bus to Chengannur, followed by road transport to Sabarimala.

• From Trivandrum, the road journey to Sabarimala takes about 4 to 5 hours via NH183 and SH67.

• Flight fares to Trivandrum vary widely depending on origin city and season, typically ranging from ₹1500 to ₹5000.

• Using flights is suitable if you are coming from distant cities and want to reduce travel time to Kerala before continuing by road.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Chengannur to Sabarimala for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your journey efficiently and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus ticket to Chengannur well in advance, especially during the pilgrimage season, using IRCTC or KSRTC online portals to secure confirmed seats.

• Upon arrival at Chengannur, use local auto-rickshaws or taxis to reach the main bus station or car rental points for onward travel to Sabarimala.

• Choose a KSRTC pilgrim bus or hire a taxi from Chengannur to Pamba; buses are economical and frequent, but taxis offer flexibility for groups or luggage.

• Carry essential items like water, snacks, and rain gear, as the route passes through forested and hilly areas with limited shops en route.

• At Pamba, register your pilgrimage details if required and prepare for the trek or bus ride up to Sabarimala temple, following local guidelines and timings.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber in Chengannur for safer and transparent pricing; avoid unlicensed taxis to prevent scams.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry only essential luggage and keep valuables secure, as pilgrimage routes can be crowded and pickpocketing is possible in busy areas.

• Drink bottled water or carry a trusted water purifier, as tap water quality varies and stomach issues are common among travelers.

• Book transport tickets online early, especially during November to January, to avoid last-minute unavailability and inflated fares.

• Use local buses or shared taxis for short distances in Chengannur and Pamba; autorickshaws are common but negotiate fares beforehand.

• Wear comfortable shoes and carry light rain protection; the route involves walking and can be slippery during monsoon.

• Be cautious during monsoon months (June to September) as landslides and roadblocks can cause delays; check local news before traveling.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Chengannur to Sabarimala is during the pilgrimage season from November to January. Weather is cooler and roads are generally clear. Avoid the monsoon months for safer travel.

Peak festival days like Makara Jyothi attract huge crowds, so plan your trip on weekdays or early mornings to avoid congestion and long waits.

• Avoid traveling during the heavy monsoon season (June to September) due to slippery roads and potential landslides in the Western Ghats.

• Festival periods such as Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku see high traffic; book transport and accommodation well in advance.

• Early morning departures from Chengannur help you avoid traffic jams and reach Pamba with daylight for the trek.

• Winter months offer pleasant weather but can be crowded; carry warm clothes for the cooler hilltop climate near Sabarimala.

Arrival at Sabarimala & What to Expect

When you arrive at Pamba, the base camp for Sabarimala, you will find facilities like restrooms, food stalls, and medical aid. From here, pilgrims either trek or take shuttle buses to the temple.

Local transport options include KSRTC buses and private taxis. Prepaid taxi counters are available at Pamba to avoid overcharging. Accommodation is limited near Pamba, so many pilgrims stay in Chengannur or nearby towns.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Sabarimala from Chengannur is by taking a KSRTC pilgrim bus or hiring a taxi, especially during the pilgrimage season. Train travel helps you reach Chengannur easily, but the final leg is best done by road.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and preparing for hilly terrain. With the right information and preparation, you can enjoy a smooth and fulfilling pilgrimage experience from Chengannur to Sabarimala.