Ticket Availability for Dolly Service from Sannidhanam to Pamba
Pilgrims traveling from Sannidhanam to Pamba can now purchase tickets for the dolly service directly from the Publicity Office, located at the Valiya Nadapandal. Previously, tickets were only available at Pamba, and due to the lack of a prior booking system at Sannidhanam, some devotees had to pay higher fares for the return journey to Pamba. To address this issue, authorities have introduced ticket sales at Sannidhanam.
The dolly service fare is Rs 6,500 per person for a round trip, and Rs 3,250 for a one-way journey.
Price for Sabarimala Prepaid Dolly Service
The Travancore Devaswom Board has launched a prepaid system for dolly carrier services. Service centers will be established at Pampa, Neelimala, and Valiya Nadappanthal, where payments can be made either in person or online. The proposed rates are as follows:
- Up to 80 kg: Rs 4,000
- Up to 100 kg: Rs 5,000
- Above 100 kg: Rs 6,000
In addition, a service fee of Rs 250 will be applied per transaction.
The court has directed that the Travancore Devaswom Board must ensure that all dollies used for carrying pilgrims along the trekking path are certified fit before the start of each Maasapooja and Mandala-Makaravilakku festival season.
Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple Dolly Service
The dolly service, an important tradition, is essential for elderly pilgrims and those with physical disabilities visiting the hill shrine. This season, the TDB has issued permits to around 1,750 dolly carriers. Each dolly, carried by a team of four men, helps devotees travel the five-kilometre uphill journey from Pampa to Sannidhanam and back.
About Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple
The Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple is located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, and it has a distinctive, spiritual atmosphere.
- Temple Structure: The temple itself is relatively simple, built with a mix of traditional Kerala architectural elements. It features a large, gold-plated roof (often referred to as the “Keralite roof”) that adds a touch of grandeur. The temple is rectangular, with a central sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha), where Lord Ayyappa’s idol resides.
- Lord Ayyappa’s Idol: Inside the temple, the idol of Lord Ayyappa is usually dressed in black and gold attire, and the deity is depicted seated in a meditative posture. The idol is often surrounded by oil lamps that are lit by devotees.
- The Pathway: Pilgrims typically approach the temple through a long, steep pathway lined with lush green forest, symbolizing the arduous journey of devotion. The holy steps (Ayyappa’s 18 steps) are a significant part of the pilgrimage experience, leading up to the main temple. These steps are considered very sacred, and before climbing them, pilgrims must observe strict celibacy and other vows.
- Surrounding Area: The temple is nestled in dense, pristine forest, with mountainous views and natural beauty all around. You can see tall trees, thick foliage, and the occasional mist that rolls through the area, giving it a serene and spiritual vibe.
- Pillars & Decor: The temple complex itself is adorned with traditional Kerala wooden pillars, some of which might be intricately carved with scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple is also surrounded by small shrines for other deities related to the larger temple complex.
- Crowds of Pilgrims: During the pilgrimage season (especially in December-January), the temple is often crowded with devotees who make their way to the temple with devotion and discipline. Pilgrims may be seen walking barefoot, wearing the traditional black “kavi” attire, and carrying offerings.
This description might help you visualize the temple, with its sacred, tranquil atmosphere nestled amid Kerala’s natural beauty.
