Makaravilakku 2025: Date, rituals and spiritual significance of the festival at Sabarimala temple

makaravilakku 2025 It is one of the most important religious festivals celebrated on 14 January Sabarimala Temple In Kerala. Devotees from all over India and abroad gather in large numbers for divine darshan. makar jyotia sacred event symbolizing the presence of Lord AyyappaThis festival is rooted in deep traditions and astrological significance, celebrating the transition of the Sun from Sagittarius to Capricorn.

Makaravilakku 2025 date and rituals

The festival coincides with Makar Sankranti and marks the end of the annual pilgrimage season to Sabarimala. The major rituals and timings of January 14, 2025 as per Drik Panchang are as follows:

► Temple opening: 3:00 am

►Abhishekam: 3:30 am to 11:00 am

► Image Correction: 11:30 am

► Kalabhabhishekam: 12:00 noon

► Lunch Puja: 12:30 pm

► Temple gate closing: 1:00 pm

► Evening temple gate opening: 5:00 pm

► Pushpa Abhishek: 7:00 pm

► Harivarasanam: 10:50 pm

► Temple closing: 11:00 pm

► Makara Vilakku Sankranti moment: 9:03 am

Ritual and spiritual significance

Makaravilakku is characterized by age-old traditions, starting with the sacred Thiruvabharanam procession and ending with the darshan of the Makara Jyoti on the Ponnambalamedu hill. Makara Jyoti is believed to be a divine light representing the divine presence of Lord Ayyappa. For devotees, witnessing this light is a moment of profound spiritual awakening and fulfillment.

A pilgrimage to Sabarimala involves rigorous penance. Devotees observe a 41-day fast, wear Rudraksha beads and abstain from worldly pleasures including alcohol and smoking. They carry a special offering bundle called Irumudi as a symbol of their devotion.

Restrictions and guidelines for pilgrims in 2025

To ensure safety and smooth management, the authorities have issued several guidelines and restrictions for Makaravilakku:

entry restrictions

► Pilgrims will be banned from entering the temple from Pampa after 10:00 am on January 14.

► The temple will remain closed for one hour after the afternoon puja. Entry into the 18th stage is allowed only after reaching the temple of Thiruvabharanam in the evening.

► Access to Sopanam Road is restricted after noon. Only pilgrims with special passes authorized by the Devaswom Vigilance SP can enter Tirumuttam.

► Night travel on the wildlife route is limited. Pilgrims have to return to their accommodation after watching Makara Jyoti at Pullumedu and proceed to Sannidhanam the next morning.

Places to visit in Makar Jyoti

► Nilakkal: The best viewpoints include Attathode, Attathode West Colony, Ilavunkal, Nellimala and Ayyanmala.

Pampa and Sannidhanam: View points are available at Hilltop, Hilltop Central, Valiyanavattom, Panditavalam, Darshanam Complex and Annadana Mandapam.

► Viewing Makar Jyoti from tree tops, rooftops or water tanks is strictly prohibited.

Special Pass and Travel Guidelines

► Only pilgrims with virtual queue or spot booking can travel from Nilakkal to Pampa.

► Vehicles will be allowed only between Nilakkal and Pampa till 10:00 am and from Pampa to Sannidhanam till 12:00 noon. Entry into Sannidhanam resumes at 5:30 pm when Thiruvabharanam reaches Saramkuthi.

►Travel allowed from Sabarimala to Pullumedu From 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.

prohibited activities

cooking: Temporary cooking arrangements have been banned in Pampa, Sannidhanam and surrounding areas.

Cultural and spiritual importance

Makaravilakku is more than a religious event – ​​it is an intense journey of faith, perseverance and devotion. Witnessing the Makar Jyoti is considered a divine blessing, and the conclusion of the festival brings a sense of spiritual renewal. The pilgrimage ends with the Kuruthi puja, which marks the end of the festival and the completion of the devotees’ 41-day discipline.

The festival symbolizes communal worship and personal transformation, making Makaravilakku 2025 a life-changing experience for countless devotees. The intense preparation and physical hardships endured by the pilgrims reflect unwavering devotion to Lord Ayyappa, symbolizing the journey towards enlightenment and divine grace.

(This article is for your general information only. Zee News does not confirm its accuracy or reliability.)