Sabarimala · Verified guide
Sabarimala Vratham and Irumudi Guide
The Sabarimala pilgrimage is as much about the weeks of preparation as the trek. These are the traditions most pilgrims follow; your guru swami or group leader will guide you on the details.
Changing information reviewed · Official sources separated from planning guidance
Quick answer
Pilgrims traditionally observe a 41-day vratham (Mandala vratham) after wearing a mala: a simple, vegetarian, celibate and disciplined life, often in black, blue or saffron clothes. They carry an irumudi kettu, a two-part bundle of offerings and provisions, which is needed to climb the 18 holy steps.
On this page
The 41-day vratham
- Begins when the pilgrim wears the mala (usually tulsi or rudraksha beads), often from a guru swami or at a temple.
- Pilgrims follow a vegetarian diet, avoid alcohol and tobacco, and stay celibate.
- Many wear black, blue or saffron clothes and walk barefoot.
- Pilgrims address each other as "Swami" and say prayers morning and evening.
- The vratham ends after the pilgrimage, when the mala is removed.
The irumudi kettu
The irumudi is a cloth bundle with two compartments, carried on the head. It is filled at a ceremony called kettunira before the journey.
Front part
Offerings for Lord Ayyappa, including the ghee-filled coconut (neythenga) for the ghee abhishekam.
Back part
Provisions for the journey.
The 18 holy steps
The Pathinettam Padi, the 18 steps leading to the shrine, are climbed only by pilgrims who carry the irumudi. Others use a separate path.
Entry of women
The entry of women aged 10 to 50 has been the subject of proceedings before the Supreme Court of India. Check the Travancore Devaswom Board's current guidance before planning.
Packing list for the trek
- Irumudi kettu and virtual queue pass with ID.
- Water bottle, light snacks and any regular medicines.
- Torch and a light raincoat.
- A small cloth bag for waste; the route is a protected forest.
Frequently asked questions
How many days is the Sabarimala vratham?
Traditionally 41 days, called the Mandala vratham.
Is irumudi compulsory for Sabarimala?
The irumudi is needed to climb the 18 holy steps. Pilgrims without it can visit by a separate path.
What is inside the irumudi?
The front part holds offerings, including the ghee-filled coconut; the back part holds provisions for the journey.
Sources
Checked 6 Oct 2026. Rules can change; confirm with the official source before you travel.