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In a welcome move for devotees planning to visit the sacred Sabarimala Sree Ayyappan Temple in Kerala, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has announced the commencement of special Volvo bus services from Bengaluru, starting December 1, 2023.
Bengaluru-Sabarimala Bus Services: Fare, Timings
To enhance the comfort and convenience of pilgrims, the special bus services will kick off on December 1, with a reasonable fare of Rs 1,600. Departing from Shanthinagar Bus Station at 1:50 PM, the bus is scheduled to reach Nilakkal (Pampa-Sabarimala) by 6:45 AM the following day. For the return journey, the bus will leave Nilakkal at 6:00 PM, reaching Bengaluru at 10:00 AM.
Sabarimala Temple: Timings, How To Get There
Nestled amidst the Western Ghats at an altitude of 914 meters above sea level, the Sabarimala Temple is a revered site dedicated to Lord Ayyappan or Dharma Shasta, believed to be the son of Shiva and Mohini. The temple is open for worship during a limited period between November and mid-January, with special events like Mandalapooja and Makaravilakku marking the pilgrimage season.
To reach the temple, devotees need to undertake a 4-kilometer trek from Pamba, as the sacred site is accessible only by foot. The pilgrim season witnesses devotees flocking to Sabarimala, making it a spiritual journey for many. Key events during this season include Mandalapooja and Makaravilakku.
The nearest railway station to the pilgrimage site is Chengannur Railway Station, located 53 kilometers away. Additionally, Thiruvalla Railway Station is another option, situated at a distance of 102 kilometers.
Plan Your Pilgrimage: Things to Keep in Mind
1. Limited Temple Opening: The Sabarimala Temple is open for worship only during specific periods between November and mid-January. It also opens for the first five days of every Malayalam month and during Vishu in April.
2. Pilgrim Season Events: Mandalapooja and Makaravilakku are the two main events during the pilgrim season. Devotees planning their visit around these times can witness the vibrant festivities associated with these occasions.
3. Foot Journey from Pamba: Be prepared for a 4-kilometer trek from Pamba to reach the Sabarimala Temple, as vehicular access is restricted. Wear comfortable footwear and carry essentials for the trek.
4. Special Bus Service Details: If you are in Bengaluru and planning to embark on this spiritual journey, the special Volvo bus service by KSRTC offers a convenient travel option. The bus departs from Shanthinagar Bus Station, and the fare is set at Rs 1,600.
5. Railway Connectivity: Chengannur Railway Station is the closest railway station to Sabarimala, situated 53 kilometers away. Thiruvalla Railway Station is an alternative, albeit at a distance of 102 kilometers.
The introduction of special Volvo bus services from Bengaluru to Sabarimala by KSRTC comes as a boon for devotees seeking a hassle-free and comfortable journey to the sacred pilgrimage site. With affordable fares and convenient timings, this initiative aims to facilitate a smooth and enriching spiritual experience for pilgrims making their way to Sabarimala.
