Over 3 Million Devotees Visit Sabarimala During Mandala Season
The number of pilgrims visiting Sabarimala has crossed 3 million this season. As of December 25, 3,001,532 devotees had completed darshan. In comparison, last season crossed the 3-million mark by December 23.
This year’s highest single-day footfall was recorded on November 19, four days after the temple opened, with 1,02,299 pilgrims. The lowest turnout was on December 12, with 49,738 pilgrims.
Compared to previous years, Sundays witnessed relatively lower crowds. On Sunday, December 21, 61,576 devotees visited the temple. On weekdays, the average daily count exceeded 80,000 pilgrims.
In view of Mandala Pooja, the number of pilgrims allowed through the virtual queue on December 26 and 27 was reduced to 30,000 and 35,000 respectively, while spot booking was limited to 2,000. Additionally, restrictions were imposed on pilgrim movement from Pampa on Friday morning due to the Thanga Anki procession. By 9 AM, 22,039 devotees had completed darshan.