Earlier, the main temple Ulsavam was being held during December every year which is in the midst of the peak pilgrimage session. The Ulsavam rituals necessitated the temple being closed for  various durations thus preventing an opportunity for a `darshan' for many pilgrims.

Hence, commencing from the year 2006, it has been decided to hold the Ulsavam during the period 2nd April to 16th April every year.

Some of the events that take place during the main festival in April 2006
(Exact dates and times for these events will be ascertained later)

• Prior to the Utsavam, Shudhi Kriyas consisting of  Prasada Shudhi, Vaastu Bali, Vaastu Punyaham, Mulayidil will be performed.

• Bimba Shudhi Kriyas consisting of Chathu Shudhi, Dhara, Panchakam, Panchagavyam and 25 Kalasam will be performed.

• Kodiyettam (Temple Flag Hoisting)  will be conducted during Makara Rasi. On Kodiyettam day, no Neyyabhishekham will be performed from  0700 hrs. It will re-commence after Kodiyettam.

• Sribhutha Bali will be performed.

• Utsava Bali will be performed. The Lord will be taken to special mandapam for the Utsava Bali. The ceremonies will commence at about 1300 hrs and will be over by about 1600 hrs. Utsava Bali darshan will be from 1400 hrs. On these days.

• Palli Vetta will be undertaken.

• Villkku Ezhunallipu.

• Arattu to Pampa.

• As the Siveli Vigraham will be away at Pampa on the Aarattu day from morning till evening,  temple darshan will not be possible till the Vigraham returns to the temple  after the Aarattu.

Standard Schedule of Rituals at Sabarimala Temple

During Makaravilakku season, the temple opening is at 0300 hrs and closing at 2300 hrs. So some of the pooja timings will shift up and down. Essentially, this is the trend of events.