Thu Nov 20 08:18:42 UTC 2025: Summary:

The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has limited spot bookings for Sabarimala darshan to 5,000 per day until November 24, 2025, following a Kerala High Court order. This decision comes after the court criticized the TDB for failing to manage the recent influx of pilgrims, which overwhelmed the pilgrimage zone and led to chaotic conditions. The TDB is urging devotees to use the virtual queue system and has suspended spot booking at Pampa, Erumely, and Chengannur. The High Court noted that current arrangements are inadequate for the large number of pilgrims visiting Sabarimala annually.

News Article:

Sabarimala Darshan: Spot Bookings Capped After Pilgrim Surge, Court Criticism

PATHANAMTHITTA, KERALA – NOVEMBER 20, 2025 – In response to a recent surge in pilgrims and subsequent criticism from the Kerala High Court, the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has announced restrictions on spot bookings for Sabarimala darshan. Effective immediately, spot bookings are capped at 5,000 per day and will remain in place until November 24, 2025.

The decision follows a scathing critique from a Kerala High Court Division Bench, which cited the TDB’s failure to manage the recent influx of nearly 200,000 pilgrims within 48 hours of the temple’s opening on November 17. The court described the situation as “chaos” resulting from inadequate planning.

Spot booking will only be available at Nilackal and Vandiperiyar. Centers at Pampa, Erumely, and Chengannur have been suspended.

The TDB is strongly encouraging devotees to utilize the virtual queue system for securing their darshan slots.

The High Court justices highlighted the inadequacy of current arrangements given the annual influx of over 5 million pilgrims and the daily allowance of 1,000 devotees. The court has urged the TDB to improve crowd management measures.

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