Sabarimala Temple Set To Welcome Devotees From Nov 15th – COVID-19 Protocol Will Be Strictly Followed

After the Mandala Pooja on the 26th of December, the temple will close its doors and will open only in January. The Makaravilakku will take place on 14th January. After all the rituals related to the Makaravilakku have been completed, the temple will be closed again. 

In order to enter the temple, devotees are required to register themselves on the virtual queue system by the state police and only 1000 devotees at maximum will be allowed entry into the temple from November 16th. Upon reaching Nilakkal, devotees will be checked again regardless of whether or not they carry their COVID-19 negative test results. On weekends, the temple authorities will be taking in a maximum of 2000 pilgrims. 

Devotees wishing to enter the temple will also have to register themselves in the COVID-19 Jagratha Portal and have to get tested at every entry point. Furthermore, devotees are no longer allowed to bathe in the holy waters of the Pamba river and it will be closed. Moreover, staying at the Sannidhanam or near the Ganapathi Temple at night has also been prohibited in order to increase safety in and around the temple. All lodges will also remain closed. 

Through the Sabarimala VirtualQ system run by the Kerala Police, crowds will be managed with ease. It is absolutely essential to bring with oneself a COVID-19 negative certificate while visiting the temple. Those who have recently recovered from COVID-19 or have any of the symptoms like cough, cold, or fever have been advised not to visit the temple. Devotees have also been advised to undertake a graded exercise program along with a pulmonary rehabilitation program for a while before attempting the big hike.