An annual pilgrimage is undertaken by many devotees of Lord Ayyappa, seeking his blessings and grace. The popular route is to venture from Hyderabad to Sabarimala, a spiritual journey that could be embarked upon by bus, air, or train. Here’s an in-depth look at how you can reach Sabarimala from Hyderabad through these methods.
Also Read: Sabarimala Temple: History, Timings, Location
How to Reach Sabarimala from Hyderabad by Bus
Traveling by bus provides a unique, scenic route and a taste of the Indian countryside. Hyderabad to Sabarimala distance is around 1,200 km.
- Direct bus services from Hyderabad to Sabarimala are not very frequent. However, one can find an abundant number of buses to cities like Ernakulam, Kottayam, or Thiruvananthapuram which are near Sabarimala.
- State-run buses, including both Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) and Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), offer excellent long-distance services.
- The bus journey duration varies between 18 to 24 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Upon reaching your destination city, you can use local buses or taxis to reach Pamba, the base point from where you trek the hill to reach Sabarimala.
- Make sure to check bus schedules and book your seats in advance for a hassle-free journey.
Hyderabad to Sabarimala Air Travel
Quickest and most comfortable, air travel significantly reduces travel time.
- The nearest airport to Sabarimala is Cochin International Airport (COK) in Nedumbassery, which is approximately 160 kilometers away.
- Various airlines operate daily direct flights from Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) to Cochin.
- Flight duration is around 2 hours.
- Post landing, either hire a taxi or take a bus to Pathanamthitta district where the Sabarimala temple is located. The typical taxi journey might take 3 to 4 hours.
- Again, the airport is well connected with buses and taxis to Pamba.
- Booking in advance will likely fetch you good deals on airfares.
Hyderabad to Sabarimala Train Journey
Do you prefer a leisurely journey? If yes, the train is an alternative.
- Thiruvalla and Kottayam are the nearest railway stations to Sabarimala.
- Trains from Hyderabad to these stations are available but may require reservations well in advance.
- Secunderabad-Sabarimala special trains are available during the pilgrimage season.
- The journey can take about 24 to 30 hours depending on the train chosen.
- From these stations, local buses and taxis are available for transport to Pamba.
- Ensure to book your train tickets well in advance considering a huge rush during the Sabarimala season.
Final Trek to Sabarimala
Regardless of your mode of transportation, the final trek from Pamba to the Sabarimala temple will be on foot.
- Starting from Pamba, it’s an approximately 8 kilometers uphill trek amid dense forests which will lead to the famous Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple.
- Do remember, that pilgrims are expected to observe the traditional path of austerity (Vratham) for 41 days before this final trek.
Remember, journeying from Hyderabad to Sabarimala isn’t just about reaching a destination; it’s a spiritual journey, an act of dedication to Lord Ayyappa himself. Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, may Lord Ayyappa accompany and guide you on your journey.
