Sabarimala Imposes Restrictions: Virtual Queue Only, Spot Booking Halted for Makaravilakku Day

In anticipation of the upcoming Makaravilakku Day, Sabarimala, a renowned pilgrimage site, is implementing stringent measures, causing a significant shift in the booking system. Post the conclusion of the mandala season, spot bookings in Sabarimala have been halted, and devotees are now required to rely solely on the virtual queue system. Effective from January 10, there will be no provision for spot bookings. The virtual queue booking limit has been capped at 50,000 on January 14 and further reduced to 40,000 on the auspicious day of Makaravilakku, observed on January 15.

The Devaswom Board, responsible for managing the temple affairs, has advised women and children to refrain from making pilgrimages to Sabarimala on January 14th and 15th. This decision was made during a meeting attended by the Devaswom Minister, emphasizing the need for strict control on Makaravilakku Day. The Pathanamthitta police, in alignment with this decision, communicated to the Devaswom Board about the necessity for imposing stringent restrictions at Sannidhanam, the sacred temple precinct.

In response to the challenges faced by devotees during the recent mandala season, including incidents in places like Erumeli, the Devaswom Board has taken steps to avert potential issues during the Makaravilakku season. Pilgrims experienced crises such as conflicts, increased accidents, high fees, extortion, and inadequate cleanliness. With the hope of avoiding a recurrence of these challenges, the board has arranged for extended darshan (worship) opportunities from January 16th to 20th and urges devotees to make use of this facility.

As the sacred pilgrimage season continues, the new measures are aimed at ensuring a smoother and safer experience for devotees while preserving the sanctity of Sabarimala.

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