Sabarimala season to begin soon; hospitals open at Pampa, Sannidhanam, cardiology centres soon

With just a few days left for the annual Sabarimala pilgrimage season to begin, government hospitals at Pampa and Sannidhanam have started functioning. The cardiology centres at Neelimala and Appachimedu will open on November 16, when the hill shrine opens for the two-month season. The hospitals began operations ahead of schedule as staff and other workers had already reached Pampa and Sannidhanam to set up facilities for the pilgrims. Doctors and adequate stocks of medicines have also been made available at both centres. The Sabarimala Mandala-Makaravilakku season is from November 16, 2026 to January 20, 2027.

Arrangements for pilgrims
a) Around 22 emergency medical units along pilgrimage trails, forest routes and other transit points
b) At key trekking routes, CPR facilities and kiosks have been installed.
c) Three ambulances at Sannidhanam, an off-road ambulance on the forest route for the first time and a few Advanced Life Support ambulances.

d) A 120-member volunteer crew offering CPR and stretcher facilities
e) 24-hour government hospital services at Pampa and Sannidhanam, equipped with emergency care and lab facilities, along with an operation theatre.
f) There will also be free first-aid and medical aid camps by charity organisations.

Cardiac emergencies
Most cardiac emergencies occur during the uphill trek from Pampa to Sannidhanam. Pilgrims suffering cardiac problems will receive first aid at the hospitals at Neelimala, Appachimedu, Sannidhanam or Pampa before being shifted to Kottayam Medical College Hospital. Ambulances have also been stationed at Pampa and Sannidhanam.

Key helpline numbers
Medical control room - 04735 203232
Sabarimala pilgrimage helpline - 70258 00100
Neelimala Cardiology Centre - 04735 203384
Sabarimala Police Control Room - 04735-202016, 04735-203386, 04735-202100
Sannidhanam Police Station - 04735-202014

Pamba Police Station - 04735-203412
District Medical Office (Pathanamthitta) - 0468-2222642.
Safe Zone Road Helpline (MVD) - 94000 44991
For highway emergencies - 95623 18181
Universal emergencies - 112
Immediate ambulance dispatch - 108