Kerala comes alive as Sabarimala pilgrims start flocking in: Facilities at 'idathavalams'

In addition to Erumeli, extensive facilities for Sabarimala pilgrims have been arranged at various idathavalams (stopover points) and temples across Kottayam en route to the hill shrine. Here's everything you need to know: 

Ettumanoor
Accommodation for 500 pilgrims has been arranged at the Kailas Auditorium of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple. A temporary chirappu mandapam (ritual pavilion) has been set up at the marriage hall. Round-the-clock police deployment, annadanam, ambulance service, a medical clinic, and a fire-fighting unit are also in place.

Vaikom
Special arrangements have been made at the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple for prayers and offerings. Accommodation for 250 pilgrims has been arranged at the oottupura (dining hall). Pilgrims will receive priority in breakfast and dinner served at the temple. Parking issues at Vadakkenada have been resolved.

Thirunakkara
Accommodation for 500 pilgrims has been arranged at the Sivashakthi Auditorium on the temple grounds. Parking facilities are available. The services of five Guruswamis will be offered at Ayyappanada for the Kettunira rituals. Police and medical aid posts, hot ginger water distribution, and an information centre have also been set up.

Malliyoor
Arrangements have been completed at the Malliyoor Mahaganapathy Temple. Annadanam will be offered daily from 6.30 am to 11.30 am until January 15. Parking, viri facilities, and health department services are available. Prayer timings have been revised to 4.30 am to 1 pm and 4.30 pm –8.30 pm. 

Chirakkadavu
Round-the-clock annadanam will be available at the Chirakkadavu Mahadeva Temple throughout the Mandala–Makaravilakku season. Facilities for viri, toilets, and parking are provided. At the Chirakkadavu Manakkattu Badra Temple, annadanam will be offered from 10.30 am to 3 pm, along with viri, toilet, and parking facilities.

Kadappattoor
Extensive arrangements have been made at the Kadappattoor Mahadeva Temple for parking and viri facilities. The counters will operate 24 hours a day to supply aravana and appam. Annadanam will be held at 9.30 am and 7 pm daily. Round-the-clock Ayurveda, homoeopathy, and allopathy dispensaries, along with 24-hour ambulance and police services, have also been arranged.

Elampally
A viri (camping) pandal with a capacity for 300 devotees has been completed at the Pallikkathodu Elampally Sreedharma Shastha Temple.