Sabarimala Temple Reports Significant Revenue Increase During Mandala-Makaravilakku Season

The revered Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala has witnessed a significant financial upswing during the initial 15 days of the ongoing annual Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season. Total collections have soared to ₹92 crore, marking a substantial 33.33% increase compared to the ₹69 crore generated during the corresponding period last year. These figures were released by the Travancore Devaswom Board on Monday.

A major contributor to this revenue surge is the sale of Aravana, which amassed ₹47 crore, reflecting a notable 46.86% rise from last year’s ₹32 crore. Hundi offerings, known as Kanikka, also saw a healthy increase, climbing from ₹22 crore in 2024 to ₹26 crore this season, an 18.18% jump. Meanwhile, revenue from Appam sales remained steady at ₹3.5 crore.

The hill shrine has experienced an exceptionally busy period, with approximately 13 lakh pilgrims visiting Sabarimala up to 30 November. The Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season is scheduled to conclude in January 2026.