Taxi from Kottayam to Sabarimala
My Vihara Cabs runs a 24/7 taxi from Kottayam Railway Station to Erumely, Nilakkal and Pampa. The drive is about 95–100 km and takes 2.5–3.5 hours. Message your train and date on WhatsApp and we confirm your cab and pickup point.
- 95–100 km
- via Erumely
- 2.5–3.5 hours
- on normal days
- 24 hours
- day and night pickup
- Pay after the ride
- UPI or cash
Kottayam railway station to Sabarimala: the route
- Kottayam Railway StationYour driver meets you at the station exit.
- ErumelyStart of the traditional pilgrim route. We stop here on request.
- NilakkalBase camp for Sabarimala. The usual drop point in peak season.
- PampaWhere the climb to Sannidhanam begins, when vehicles are allowed.
Nilakkal or Pampa: where will the cab stop?
In peak season private vehicles are usually stopped at Nilakkal, about 25 km before Pampa, and pilgrims continue by KSRTC bus. Rules change by date and crowd.
Tell us your travel date and we confirm the drop point before you leave.
Allow 5–6 hours during Mandalam peak days.
Cabs for pilgrim families and groups
Air-conditioned cabs with room for irumudi and bags. Tell us your group size and we match the vehicle.
Car for 1–4 pilgrims
Sedan for small groups travelling light.
Ertiga or Innova for 5–6
Extra seat and boot room for families.
Tempo Traveller for larger groups
One vehicle for the whole group, on request.
How to book a Sabarimala taxi
- Message us your train number, arrival time and number of pilgrims.
- We confirm the vehicle, drop point and your quote on WhatsApp.
- Meet your driver at the Kottayam station exit.
- Pay after the ride by UPI or cash.
Why pilgrims book with us
Pre-book from any state
Book before your train leaves.
Ghat road drivers
Calm driving on the hill sections.
Your language
Malayalam, English, Tamil, Hindi.
Return trips
Wait at Nilakkal or book a pickup.
Mandalam 2026–27 dates
- Season starts17 Nov 2026
- Mandala Pooja27 Dec 2026
- Makaravilakku14 Jan 2027
Dates follow the Travancore Devaswom Board and may change. Last updated 23 October 2026. Book 2–3 days ahead for peak days.
Request your cab
Sabarimala taxi questions
How far is Sabarimala from Kottayam?
About 95–100 km via Ponkunnam and Erumely. It takes 2.5–3.5 hours on normal days and longer during Mandalam.
Can the taxi go all the way to Pampa?
In peak season private vehicles are usually stopped at Nilakkal, about 25 km before Pampa. We confirm the drop point for your date.
How do I book from Kottayam Railway Station?
Send your train number, arrival time and number of pilgrims on WhatsApp. We confirm the cab and the driver meets you at the station exit.
When does Mandalam start in 2026?
The season is scheduled from 17 November 2026, with Mandala Pooja on 27 December and Makaravilakku on 14 January 2027. Confirm final dates with the Travancore Devaswom Board.
Can I book from another state?
Yes. Message us before boarding your train and the driver waits at the station exit. We reply in Malayalam, English, Tamil and Hindi.
Do you offer return trips?
Yes. The driver can wait, or you can book a pickup from Nilakkal or Pampa for your return time.