Sun Dec 14 13:34:08 UTC 2025: Pilgrim Influx Surges at Sabarimala, Forest Trails See Record Numbers

Pathanamthitta, India – December 14, 2025 – The annual Sabarimala pilgrimage season is witnessing a significant surge in devotees, particularly those choosing the traditional forest trails. As of December 13th, official figures show that over 102,338 pilgrims have reached the hill shrine via the various forest routes.

The Azuthakadav-Pamba trail has seen 37,059 arrivals, averaging between 1,500 and 2,500 pilgrims daily. The path from Sathram in Vandiperiyar has been even more popular, recording 64,776 arrivals with a daily footfall between 4,000 and 5,000. Authorities anticipate a further increase in the number of devotees opting for these routes in the coming days.

Overall footfall at Sannidhanam has surpassed 2.4 million, with 2,347,554 pilgrims arriving via the main Pamba-Sabarimala route. On average, 80,000 devotees are reaching Sannidhanam daily. The peak single-day arrival was recorded on December 8th with 101,844 pilgrims. Officials are urging pilgrims to strictly adhere to all safety protocols while trekking through the forest paths.

In response to the rising numbers, the Food Safety department has intensified inspections around the hill shrine to ensure the health and safety of all pilgrims. Special food safety squads have been deployed at Pamba and Sannidhanam to monitor food preparation and distribution.

To date, 328 inspections have been conducted at Pamba and 302 at Sannidhanam. Deficiencies detected at Pamba resulted in 6 compounding notices and 21 rectification notices, while 24 establishments at Sannidhanam received rectification notices. Six complaints have been resolved, and four establishments were fined a total of ₹30,000 through compounding actions.

Awareness programs on food handling and safety have also been organized for food business operators at Pamba and Sannidhanam. 69 food samples from Pamba and 62 from Sannidhanam have been sent for laboratory analysis for preliminary quality testing. All eatery units have been instructed to prominently display food safety toll-free helpline numbers.

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