Ayyappa temple is the prime attraction in Sabarimala. A temple dedicated to Malikapurathamma Devi is placed on the left side of the Ayyappa temple. It is believed that the temple layout had come from Lord Ayyappa himself. Lord Ayyappa known as Manikantan is believed to be son of Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna in Mohini form.
One has to climb 18 sacred steps to reach the sanctum Santorum. Each step symbolizes 18 feelings occur naturally in the human mind or these steps symbolizes the miseries of the life. It is believed that one reaches the temple premise leaving his human errors in these steps will get blessing from the Lord Ayyappa. The temple is a present day example of religious tolerance, equality, fraternity, and humanity.
To climb up the 18 steps, one has to have a head baggage known as Erumudi kettu. All pilgrims wear black dresses while going to Sabarimala Ayyappa temple. Before the start of trek to Ayyappa temple from the shires of River Pampa, one has to take a dip at Pampa waters.
The major pilgrim seasons are in November to January. 41 days Mandalakalam (Nov 17 to Dec 27) and the Makravilakku festival during January 10-20 are very important. The temple opens on all first 5 days of Malayalam months.
The temple premises offers best place to have panoramic views of the western ghats. The visit to this temple is really an experience to clean up the mind and body.