Sabarimala temple complex, Hindu temple on Sabarimala hill in Pathanamthitta district, India

The Sabarimala temple complex is a Hindu temple on Sabarimala hill in Pathanamthitta district, India, at an elevation of about 1,260 metres among 18 hills in the Western Ghats. Its shrine is reached by 18 granite steps clad in panchaloha, a five-metal alloy, leading to two gold-covered square sanctums. The main shrine sits above the steps, and the Pampa river rises nearby.

Records point to temple activities since medieval times, when worship began in this forested region. Major renovations were carried out in the 1950s after multiple fires damaged the original structure.

Pilgrimage to the shrine requires wearing specific clothing, usually black or blue, and abstaining from meat, alcohol and worldly pleasures during the preparation period. Devotees often carry tulsi garlands around their necks and chant together during the ascent, creating a communal mood.

The complex opens during specific periods, including November to December for Mandala Pooja and January for Makaravilakku celebrations. The climb requires good physical condition, as the steps can be steep and the path leads through forest.

The hill temple draws an estimated 30 to 50 million pilgrims each year, with the Travanacore Devaswom Board reporting about 50 million arrivals between November and January in some years. The Makaravilakku flame appears three times on Ponnambalamedu hill, 4 km from the temple.