Sabarimala is a famous pilgrimage site located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, known for the Lord Ayyappa temple. Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala, lies about 160 kilometers south of Sabarimala and serves as a common starting point for many pilgrims.

This route is frequently traveled during the pilgrimage season, especially between November and January. This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Sabarimala from Trivandrum, covering trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with practical travel tips for a comfortable journey.

Getting from Trivandrum to Sabarimala – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical choice for pilgrims. Though there is no direct train to Sabarimala, you can reach nearby stations and continue by road.

• The nearest railway stations to Sabarimala are Chengannur and Tiruvalla, approximately 90 km and 100 km away respectively, connected well with Trivandrum Central Station.

• Trivandrum to Chengannur trains run frequently, taking around 3.5 to 4 hours, with fares typically between ₹150 and ₹300 depending on class.

• From Chengannur or Tiruvalla, pilgrims take buses or taxis to reach Pamba, the base camp for Sabarimala, which is about 45 km from Chengannur.

• Train services can get crowded during the pilgrimage season, so booking tickets early via IRCTC is essential to secure seats.

• Monsoon season may cause occasional delays on this route, so check train status before travel during June to September.

Bus

Buses are a common and direct way to reach Sabarimala from Trivandrum, especially during the pilgrimage season when special services run.

• Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular and special pilgrim buses from Trivandrum Central Bus Station to Pamba, covering about 160 km in 5 to 6 hours.

• Bus fares range from ₹150 to ₹300 depending on the type of service, with air-conditioned and non-AC options available.

• During peak pilgrimage months, buses can be very crowded, so arriving early at the bus station or booking tickets online through KSRTC’s website is advisable.

• The route follows NH 66 and then SH 8, passing through scenic Western Ghats with multiple toll plazas and rest stops offering food and refreshments.

• Night buses are available but may be less comfortable due to winding mountain roads and fog in early mornings.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Trivandrum to Sabarimala offers flexibility and comfort, suitable for groups or families carrying pilgrimage gear.

• The drive covers approximately 160 km via NH 66 and SH 8, taking around 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• You will pass through towns like Kottarakkara and Pathanamthitta; several toll plazas are on the route, so keep cash or FASTag ready.

• Fuel stations and eateries are available along the highway, but it’s best to start early to avoid evening fog in the hilly areas near Sabarimala.

• Parking near Pamba is limited during peak season; plan to park at designated lots and use shuttle services to reach the temple premises.

• Driving in monsoon requires caution due to slippery roads and possible landslides in the Western Ghats region.

Flight

Though there is no airport near Sabarimala, flying to Trivandrum is the fastest way to start your journey if you are coming from distant cities.

• Trivandrum International Airport is well connected to major Indian cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi, with multiple daily flights.

• From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Trivandrum city center, approximately 7 km away, to continue your journey to Sabarimala.

• Flight fares vary widely but booking in advance can secure better prices, especially before the pilgrimage season.

• During the pilgrimage months, airport and city traffic may increase, so allocate extra time for transfers from the airport to bus or train stations.

• There are no direct flights to airports closer to Sabarimala; road travel from Trivandrum remains necessary.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Trivandrum to Sabarimala to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience.

• Book your train or bus tickets early through IRCTC or KSRTC websites to avoid last-minute hassles and secure your preferred travel time.

• Pack light but include essential items like water bottles, snacks, and comfortable walking shoes, as the trek from Pamba to Sabarimala is steep and long.

• Start your journey early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic and reach Pamba before sunset, as night travel on mountain roads can be risky.

• On arrival at Pamba, register at the pilgrim reception center and follow the designated trekking path to the temple, respecting local customs and safety guidelines.

• Use prepaid taxis or official shuttle buses from Chengannur or Tiruvalla stations to Pamba if traveling by train, ensuring reliable and safe transfers.

• Keep your ID and pilgrimage permits handy throughout the journey, as authorities may check them at various points.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry sufficient drinking water and avoid consuming street food during the journey to prevent stomach issues, especially in remote areas along the route.

• Use official prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Trivandrum and Chengannur for safe and transparent fares.

• During peak season, book accommodation near Pamba or Sannidhanam well in advance, as options fill up quickly.

• Keep your valuables secure and avoid traveling alone at night on isolated stretches of the route.

• Wear comfortable and modest clothing suitable for the pilgrimage and the tropical climate of Kerala.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, as heavy monsoon rains can cause landslides and roadblocks on the way to Sabarimala.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Trivandrum to Sabarimala is during the pilgrimage season from mid-November to mid-January, when the temple is open and special transport services operate.

Outside this period, the temple remains closed for annual cleaning and maintenance, and travel options may be limited.

• Avoid traveling during the heavy monsoon months of June to September due to slippery roads and frequent landslides in the Western Ghats.

• Festival days like Makaravilakku attract huge crowds, causing traffic jams and longer travel times; plan accordingly.

• Early morning departures help avoid fog and traffic congestion near Pamba and the temple area.

• Winter mornings can be cold and misty, so carry warm clothing if traveling in December or January.

Arrival at Sabarimala & What to Expect

Upon reaching Pamba, the main base for Sabarimala pilgrims, you will find several facilities like restrooms, food stalls, and medical aid centers. From here, the trek to the temple is about 5 kilometers uphill.

Local transport options include shuttle buses and porter services for those who need assistance. Accommodation is available near Pamba and Sannidhanam, but booking ahead is recommended during peak season.

Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs are available at Chengannur and Tiruvalla stations for onward travel to Pamba. At the temple, expect large crowds and follow instructions from temple authorities for a smooth darshan experience.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Sabarimala from Trivandrum depends on your preferences. Trains to Chengannur or Tiruvalla combined with bus or taxi transfers offer a budget-friendly and reliable option. For more comfort and flexibility, driving or taking KSRTC buses directly to Pamba works well.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, starting your journey early in the day, and preparing for weather conditions will help you have a safe and fulfilling pilgrimage. With this guide, you can confidently plan your travel from Trivandrum to Sabarimala and focus on the spiritual experience ahead.