Authorities urge devotees to book virtual queues for Sabarimala darshan: How to book, tips for hassle-free visit

As the Mandalam season at Sabarimala begins next Sunday (November 16), authorities have urged devotees to book virtual queues for the darshan, as spot booking slots are limited. "Those without virtual queue bookings are likely to face inconvenience and long waiting times for darshan," says the release from the police. It also warns that security arrangements can get disrupted in the event of uncontrolled crowding, and this calls for pre-booking of virtual queues before the pilgrims leave for Sabarimala. The two-month Mandalam-Makaravilakku season begins at 5 pm on November 16 and runs till January 20 next year. The Makaravilakku festival is on January 14 at 4 pm.

How to book virtual queues?
1. Visit the Travancore Devaswom Board online services website and log in. 
2. Click on 'Virtual-Q' on top left corner of the page
3. Pick the date (Virtual queues till November 26 are already full).
4. Select one of the three paths for the pilgrims:
a) Erumeli - Kalaketti traditional path (46 km)
b) Vandiperiyar - Sathram - Pulmedu (16 km)
c) Pampa - Marakkoottam - 4 km

5. Once you pick your route, 'Click here' option on the right side of the box will give more details on the route. 
For example, if you pick the Pampa - Marakkoottam route, it will provide details on the trek routes, a route map, medical facilities en route, and resting spots. It also includes information on how to reach by bus, air, rail, or self-driven car. 

6. Pick a time of your convenience to take the route. Six time slots are offered, and each also shows how many more pilgrims can be accommodated using the 'Availability' feature. The filled-up slots will appear in yellow. 
Note: The authorities have instructed pilgrims to arrive three hours before the scheduled time for their selected slot and route.

How to ensure a smooth ascent?
Authorities request that pilgrims rest for 5 minutes after every 10 minutes of climbing to ensure a smooth ascent to Sannidhanam. Here are a few of the other instructions that can make your pilgrimage hassle-free:
1) Park your vehicles only at permitted slots
2) Don't jump queues
3) Don't smoke at any point en route
4) Expect security screenings at various points

5) If planning to use the dolly facility, payment should be made only at the Devaswom counter. Also, keep the receipt safe
6) If you want to buy food items, opt for licensed outlets
7) Follow the queue system to reach Pathinettampadi
8) Do not litter any of the premises, including trekking routes, Sannidhanam or Pampa
9) ID cards with contact numbers, address and other details should be hung on the neck of children, the elderly or malikappurams (girls)
10) Use designated bins to deposit any waste items
11) Use only toilets and latrines for bowel clearance and urination

12) Call 14432 for police help in case of medical emergencies, animal theft, missing persons, vehicle breakdown, accidents and more
13) Alert the police if you spot suspicious activities
14) Use oxygen parlours and medical centres if required
15) Stay away from drugs and alcohol
16) Don't carry explosives or weapons
17) Don't take the service of unauthorised salesmen

18) Avoid handing out any extra payments for various services
19)Don't break coconuts anywhere other than in designated spots for it, on both sides of Pathinettampadi. Don't break them on Pathinettampadi either
20) For the return journey, use 'Nadapanthal fly-over'
21) Don't leave clothes in the Pampa River 
22) In the Upper Thirumuttam or Thanthrinada area, do not wait to rest
23) Avoid mobile phone usage in temple premises