The road trip from Trivandrum to Sabarimala is a lifetime experience. Sabarimala is a famous pilgrimage place, with the revered Ayyappa temple situated in the Western Ghats. Trivandrum to Sabarimala distance is about 164 kilometers which takes about 4 to 5 hours by car. Once you reach Sabarimala, immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance, explore the temple complex, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
With Savaari, you can make your road trip from Trivandrum to Sabarimala by car convenient and hassle-free. Consider booking a Sabarimala tour package with Savaari Car Rentals, a newly launched package at the most affordable prices for pilgrims planning a Trivandrum to Sabarimala yatra.
Table of Contents
- Why Travel from Trivandrum to Sabarimala?
- Traveling from Trivandrum to Sabarimala by Car
- Best Time to Take a Road Trip from Trivandrum to Sabarimala
- Popular Routes to Travel from Trivandrum to Sabarimala
- Best Route from Trivandrum to Sabarimala
- Attractions in Sabarimala for Sightseeing
- Savaari Recommends: Popular Places to Eat in Sabarimala
- Hotels and Resorts: Accommodation in Sabarimala
- Nearby Road Trips from Sabarimala
- Highway Updates
Why Travel from Trivandrum to Sabarimala?
Traveling from Trivandrum to Sabarimala is a spiritually uplifting journey. This trip is perfect if you want to explore serene temples, green hills, and traditional cuisine. It’s an excellent opportunity to capture stunning photos and make lifelong memories. Whether you are traveling alone, with friends, or with family, this road trip promises excitement and meaningful moments.
By booking a Trivandrum taxi service with Savaari, you can embark on a convenient ride to the revered place, make stops along the way wherever you want, and enjoy the scenic spots along the route at affordable rates.
Traveling from Trivandrum to Sabarimala by Car
Traveling from Trivandrum to Sabarimala by car is convenient and stress-free. The Trivandrum to Sabarimala distance is 164 kilometers, and it usually takes about 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Consider hiring a reliable car rental in Trivandrum with Savaari for a comfortable ride to the sacred shrine. Savaari Car Rentals can be a great travel partner for a hassle-free travel experience, a seamless booking process, skilled drivers, and well-maintained vehicles.
Important Highway Information: Trivandrum–Sabarimala Highway
| Highway Name | Trivandrum-Sabarimala Highway |
| Alternate Name | MC Road |
| Total Distance | 164 Km |
| Starting Point | Trivandrum |
| End Point | Sabarimala |
| Highway Quality | Good |
Quick Facts about Trivandrum to Sabarimala
| Details | Information |
| Trivandrum to Sabarimala Distance via Road | 164 Km |
| Aerial Distance from Trivandrum to Cochin | 190 Km |
| Time to Travel from Trivandrum to Sabarimala by Road | 4-5 Hrs |
| Best Routes from Trivandrum to Sabarimala | MC Road |
| Best Time to Visit Sabarimala | November–January |
Best Time to Take a Road Trip from Trivandrum to Sabarimala
The best time for this road trip is from November to January. The weather is cool and pleasant, making the drive comfortable. Avoid traveling during the monsoon season (June to September), as the roads can be slippery and prone to landslides.
For a hassle-free trip from Trivandrum to Sabarimala, download the Savaari cab booking app and book cabs with Savaari. Enjoy a comfortable and seamless journey with easy booking, dependable service, and first-rate customer care by Savaari. If you are a large group of more than eight members, you can also hire a tempo traveller in Trivandrum in Savaari and enjoy a comfortable ride to the holy shrine.
Popular Routes to Travel from Trivandrum to Sabarimala
If you are traveling from Trivandrum to Sabarimala by car, there is only one popular route to Sabarimala that offers smooth highways with well-maintained roads:
Route 1: Trivandrum to Sabarimala via MC Road
If you are traveling from Trivandrum to Sabarimala by car, the route via MC Road is mostly in great shape, with smooth highways. It is the fastest and most convenient, passing through beautiful landscapes and small towns.
Suggested Places Along the Way
- Vavar Shrine, Erumeli: This unique and historically significant shrine is dedicated to Vavar Swamy, a revered companion of Lord Ayyappa – the shrine symbolizes religious harmony and inclusivity. It is situated near the Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, which makes it an important part of the Sabarimala pilgrimage. Traditionally, the pilgrims visit the Vavar Shrine before trekking to Sabarimala as a mark of respect for Vavar Swamy, who is believed to have helped Lord Ayyappa in his divine mission. The shrine is often also referred to as a mosque because of its Islamic architecture.
- Kilimanoor Palace, Kilimanoor: Located in Kerala, India, it is famous as the birthplace of the painter Raja Ravi Varma and Raghava Varma, the father of King Marthanda Varma. The palace complex spans over six hectares and includes traditional Kerala-style buildings, ponds, wells, and sacred groves. Built in its current form in 1753, the palace has a history of over 300 years. Some buildings were maintained by Raja Ravi Varma using the money from his paintings. Families related to the Travancore royal house still live there.
- Pamba River, Pamba: The Pamba River flows through the Indian state of Kerala. It is one of the longest rivers in Kerala, stretching about 176 kilometers. The river is important for the local people as it provides water for drinking, farming, and fishing. The Pamba River is also famous because it is near the Sabarimala Temple, a major pilgrimage site. During the pilgrimage season, many devotees take a holy dip in the river before visiting the temple.
Popular Places to Eat on This Route
- Hotel Bismillah, Kilimanoor: Located in Kilimanoor, it offers mobile restaurant services with delivery, dine-in, and takeaway options. It serves delicious breakfast and lunch, featuring a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes.
- Kadavu Hotel, Pathanapuram: Located in Pathanapuram, it offers a variety of delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, an all-you-can-eat menu, and vegan dishes. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and quality food, it’s a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
Route 1: Trivandrum to Sabarimala Road Conditions
The road from Trivandrum to Sabarimala is in good condition, making it an easy and smooth journey. The highways are well-maintained, with minimal traffic and few obstacles. The overall driving experience is comfortable and hassle-free.
Best Route from Trivandrum to Sabarimala
The Trivandrum to Sabarimala route map via MC Road from Trivandrum to Sabarimala is the most popular among travelers. It’s quicker and offers more scenic spots along the way.
Other Means of Traveling From Trivandrum to Sabarimala
Some other popular means of traveling from Trivandrum to Sabarimala are:
How to Reach by Train?
There is no direct Trivandrum to Sabarimala train. However, you can catch many trains from Trivandrum to Chengannur railway station, the nearest railway station to Sabarimala, which is around 85 Km away. From Chengannur, you can hire a taxi service or take a bus to Sabarimala.
To book train tickets from Trivandrum to Chengannur, visit the IRCTC website. There, you can find the latest train schedules, ticket availability, and live running status. You can also use Savaari Car Rentals for hassle-free, comfortable transport between the cities.
How to Reach by Flight?
The nearest airport to Sabarimala is Cochin International Airport (COK), which is about 160 kilometers from Sabarimala. There are regular flights from Trivandrum to Cochin but no direct flights from Trivandrum to Sabarimala. You can hire an airport taxi in Kochi with Savaari or take a bus to reach Sabarimala.
Flights usually cost around INR 2900 – INR 5000, depending on the dates of travel. While flying saves time, you will miss out on the scenic beauty of a road trip. Opt for a Savaari car rental or taxi service for a more memorable journey.
How to Reach By Bus?
Direct Trivandrum to Sabarimala bus is not available. The closest bus services are to Thekkady, 106 km away from Sabarimala. Bus tickets typically cost around INR 200 – INR 500, and it takes around 3-4 hours to reach Thekkady and another 2 hours to Sabarimala.
The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular bus services. These buses provide a comfortable and affordable way to travel to the temple.
The journey by bus lets you enjoy the beautiful spots along the route. However, keep in mind that the last part of the journey involves some walking to reach the temple. For a more convenient experience, consider hiring a Savaari cab for a direct ride to Sabarimala.
Price Comparison for Choosing Different Travel Means
Let’s look at the different travel means to Sabarimala on the basis of price:
| Travel Means | Estimated Cost |
| Trivandrum to Sabarimala Cabs | INR 5249 |
| Train to Chennagur | INR 500 – INR 2500 |
| Bus to Thekkady | INR 200-INR 500 |
| Flight to Kochi | INR 2900-INR 5000 |
Planning a road trip from Trivandrum to Sabarimala? With reliable service, convenient booking, and excellent customer support, Savaari Car Rentals makes your travel experience effortless.
Attractions in Sabarimala for Sightseeing
Sabarimala is not only a major pilgrimage center but also surrounded by various attractions that you can explore during your visit. Here are some must-visit places in Sabarimala:
Sree Dharma Sastha Temple
The main attraction in Sabarimala is the Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The temple is situated on a hilltop amidst the dense forests of the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
Here, a 41-day fasting and penance, known as vratham, is undertaken by devotees to prepare for their journey. After completing it, they begin their challenging pilgrimage through the forests to reach the sacred temple atop the Sabari Hills. The last day of the penance ends with the Makaravilakku ritual, which marks the arrival of the Makara Jyothi, a divine light that appears on the horizon at Ponnambalamedu Hill on Makara Sankranti evening.
For upcoming pooja dates and timings, you can visit the official calendar. Here are the upcoming dates for you to plan your journey in advance:
| Month | Pooja | Opening Date | Closing Date |
| November 2024 | Mandala Pooja Maholsavam | 15.11.2024 – 5 pm | 26.12.2024 – 10 pm |
| December 2024 | Madala Pooja | 26.12.2024 | |
| Thirunadai Thirappu – Makaravilakku Mahotsavam | 30.12.2024 | 19.01.2025 | |
| January 2024 | Makaravilakku Day | 14.01.2025 |
You can also book your place in the Virtual Q online and register in advance to secure your spot.
Marakoottam
Marakoottam is a vital stop on the trek to Sabarimala. It is known for its dense forests and tall trees, offering a serene environment. Pilgrims often rest here, enjoying the natural beauty and peace of the place. Additionally, Marakoottam holds significance for the traditional rituals performed by devotees.
Appachimedu
Appachimedu is a steep hill that pilgrims encounter on their way to Sabarimala. The name means “Appachi’s Hill,” derived from a legend associated with Lord Ayyappa. Climbing Appachimedu is challenging and tests the endurance of pilgrims. The steep ascent adds to the sense of accomplishment once the summit is reached. Despite its difficulty, the climb is seen as a crucial part of the pilgrimage.
Seethathode
Seethathode is a beautiful village near Sabarimala, known for its lush green landscapes and the calm Seetha River. This picturesque village offers a peaceful retreat away from the busy pilgrimage route. Pilgrims and visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Kerala here, with its verdant scenery and serene river.
Karimalai Thodu
Karimalai Thodu is a stream that pilgrims cross on their way to the Sabarimala Temple. Surrounded by dense forests and rich wildlife, this spot offers a refreshing break for travelers. The stream, with its clear, cool water, provides a natural spot for rest and rejuvenation.
Manimandapam
Manimandapam is located at Sannidhanam, near the main Sabarimala Temple. This sacred spot is believed to be where Lord Ayyappa meditated. Pilgrims visit Manimandapam to offer prayers and meditate, seeking spiritual solace.
Sabarimala Pathinettam Padi
Pathinettam Padi refers to the sacred 18 steps leading to the Sabarimala Temple. These steps are considered holy, symbolizing the 18 hills surrounding the temple. Climbing Pathinettam Padi is a significant part of the pilgrimage, as devotees believe it purifies them spiritually.
Savaari Recommends: Popular Places to Eat in Sabarimala
While Sabarimala is primarily known for its religious significance, there are several places where you can enjoy local cuisine. Let’s look at some popular places to eat in Sabarimala:
- Pugmarks Eco Shop: Pugmarks Eco Shop, located on Swami Ayyappan Road in Sannidhanam, Pathanamthitta, serves a selection of snacks, tea, and coffee, providing a refreshing break for visitors.
- Kseb Canteen: Kseb Canteen, located along NH 183A in Sabarimala, Pathanamthitta, serves as a convenient dining spot for travelers and pilgrims. This canteen offers a variety of meals to cater to the diverse tastes of its visitors.
- Hotel New Aryabhavan: Hotel New Aryabhavan, found in Nilakkal, Pathanamthitta, is a dining establishment that provides a range of meal options for visitors. While it may not be as highly rated as other eateries, it offers a decent place to rest and refuel.
Hotels and Resorts: Accommodation in Sabarimala
Finding comfortable accommodation in Sabarimala can enhance your pilgrimage experience. Here are some recommended places to stay in Sabarimala:
| Hotel Name | Address | Phone Number |
| Oxygen Resorts | Kumily Anavilasam Road, Thekkady, 685535, India | 4869 224 415 |
| The Mountain Courtyard | Kottayam-Kumily Rd, 66th Mile, Spring Valley, Thekkady, 685509, India | 90726 33386 |
| Niraamaya Retreats Cardamom Club | 66th Mile V&V Estates, Spring Valley, Kumily, Thekkady, 685509, India | 90724 00064 |
Nearby Road Trips from Sabarimala
If you have more time and want to explore the surroundings, here are some recommended nearby road trips from Sabarimala:
| Destination | Distance (approx.) | Time Taken (approx.) |
| Sabarimala to Alleppey (Alappuzha) | 117 km | 2-3 hours |
| Sabarimala to Kochi (Cochin) | 147 km | 3-4 hours |
| Sabarimala to Coimbatore | 303 km | 7-8 hours |
| Sabarimala to Bangalore | 597 km | 11-12 hours |
Planning your Sabarimala Yatra from Trivandrum? Use the Sabarimala Virtual Queue System to secure your darshan slot. This online system helps you avoid long waits at the temple. Visit the official Sabarimala online booking website to book your slot and check available dates.
Looking for a place to stay near the temple? The same website offers online room booking options. Check the available dates and book your accommodation in advance for a comfortable trip.
Download the Savaari cab booking app for a seamless booking process and a hassle-free journey from Trivandrum to Sabarimala. Experience the ease of booking and stay updated with real-time trip notifications for a smooth and peaceful pilgrimage.
Highway Updates
- Six-lane NH to transform Kerala’s landscape
- Parking space for 10,000 vehicles to be arranged at Nilackal
- Special queue for children and elderly women opened at Sabarimala
