In a significant move to support pilgrims undertaking the sacred Sabarimala Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has initiated special chain bus services. These services are specifically designed for Ayyappa devotees traveling to Sannidhanam via the traditional and revered forest path of Sathram-Pullumedu.
Schedule and Operational Details
All bus services are being operated from the KSRTC bus station located in Vandiperiyar. The transport authority has confirmed that a total of 16 trips are scheduled daily to ferry pilgrims to Sathram. The first bus of the day departs early at 5:30 AM from the Kumily depot. To ensure pilgrims can return comfortably, the last bus from Sathram back to Vandiperiyar leaves at 6:00 PM.
Navigating the Challenging Terrain
The journey covers a distance of approximately 16 kilometers through scenic yet challenging terrain. The route winds through lush tea plantations and is characterized by a narrow road with numerous hairpin bends. Due to these conditions, the travel time for this segment is around 40 minutes. It's crucial for pilgrims to note that the Forest Department permits access only via the forest path from Sathram to Pullumedu, and this access is restricted until 1:00 PM each day. KSRTC has meticulously planned its schedule to align with this regulation.
Affordable Pilgrimage Travel
This initiative by KSRTC brings substantial financial relief to devotees. On the same route, private jeep operators typically charge around Rs 100 per person or Rs 1,000 for a full trip. In stark contrast, the state-run KSRTC is offering the journey at a highly subsidized rate of just Rs 33 per person. This affordable service ensures that the pilgrimage remains accessible to a wider section of devotees, easing the logistical and economic burden of their spiritual journey.
