Sabarimala trek route preparations have intensified in Kerala ahead of the pilgrimage season. The Forest Department is clearing paths and arranging facilities; explore more geography and environment current affairs.
Quick answer: The Sabarimala trek route starts at Erumely in Kerala and passes through forest areas towards Pampa. Ahead of the two-month pilgrimage season, the Forest Department is clearing the route and arranging services. Officials plan around 90 service centres up to Kalaketti and 194 on the remaining stretch.
Where is the Sabarimala trek route?
The traditional route runs from Erumely towards Pampa in Kerala and usually takes two days. It passes through Perur Thodu, Koikkakavu, Kalaketti and Azhuthakadavu.
| Feature | Key fact |
|---|---|
| State | Kerala |
| Koikkakavu temple to Kalaketti | Kottayam Forest Division |
| Remaining forest portion | Western zone of Periyar Tiger Reserve |
| Route duration | Usually two days |
Why is the route in the news?
The Forest Department is preparing the route for the expected pilgrim rush. It is clearing the Erumely–Kalaketti and Azhuthakadavu–Pampa stretches, with work expected to finish in the next few days.
Officials plan prefabricated toilets and service centres; Kalaketti will also have space for a police camp. However, the route is scheduled to open only on the first day of the season, despite demands for an earlier opening.
What are the trekking timings and facilities?
Forest checkposts enforce separate travel windows for different stretches. Authorities may revise them if pilgrim numbers rise significantly.
| Stretch | Permitted time |
|---|---|
| Koikkakavu to Kalaketti | 6 am–5 pm |
| Azhuthakadavu to Mukkuzhy | 7 am–2.30 pm |
| Mukkuzhy to Pampa | 7 am–3 pm |
Around 90 service centres up to Kalaketti will provide drinking water and lighting. In addition, the remaining stretch will have 194 service centres and six medical aid centres, including at Azhuthakadavu, Puthussery and Karimala.
Forest personnel, temporary staff and watchers will work along the route; elephant squads will also support safety. An official said timings and security arrangements would need revision if daily inflow reaches 2,500 pilgrims.
Why does the forest route matter?
The trek connects a major pilgrimage with forest areas that require regulated access and safety arrangements. In particular, the Azhuthakadavu–Mukkuzhy stretch lies within Periyar Tiger Reserve.
Therefore, the route is useful for revising protected-area geography alongside visitor management. For related context, see CBL’s coverage of Kerala wildlife governance and safety on another pilgrimage route.
Source: The Hindu, 2 November 2026
State PCS General Studies can test the location of Periyar Tiger Reserve and Kerala’s pilgrimage routes. In addition, aspirants can revise how authorities manage visitors and safety in forest areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the traditional Sabarimala trek start?
It starts at Erumely in Kerala. The trek usually takes two days and passes through Kalaketti and Azhuthakadavu.
Does the trek pass through Periyar Tiger Reserve?
Yes, part of the route passes through Periyar Tiger Reserve. In particular, the Azhuthakadavu–Mukkuzhy stretch lies within the reserve.
When will the forest route open to pilgrims?
Officials plan to open it on the first day of the pilgrimage season. However, devotees have sought an opening at least one day earlier.
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