How Much Has Kerala Invested in Sabarimala Development?
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Synopsis
Discover how Kerala has committed substantial funds towards the development of Sabarimala, one of India's most sacred pilgrimage sites. With a total investment plan exceeding Rs 1,000 crore, this initiative promises to enhance facilities for millions of devotees. Learn about the phases of development and the projected expenditures.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala's investment in Sabarimala exceeds Rs 70 crore.
- Total projected expenditure is over Rs 1,000 crore.
- Development plans include multiple phases and locations.
- Government support accelerates project completion.
- Facilities for pilgrims are being significantly improved.
Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 17 (NationPress) Kerala has allocated Rs 70.37 crore for various initiatives aimed at the enhancement of Sabarimala from 2016 to 2025, as disclosed during an Assembly session on Wednesday.
The State Devaswom Minister, V. N. Vasavan, informed the Assembly that multiple governments have undertaken and finalized several projects under the Sabarimala Master Plan since 2016.
From 2022 to 2025, the High-Level Committee of the Sabarimala Master Plan has requested Rs 18.39 crore from the state government, of which Rs 15.69 crore has already been released.
Minister Vasavan highlighted that the layout plan for the temple's base camp at Nilakkal received government approval in 2020.
“Following that, layout plans for Sannidhanam (the temple area), Pampa, and the trekking route have also been authorized. Ongoing governmental support has expedited the projects within the Master Plan,” he stated.
According to official estimates, the first phase of development at Sannidhanam (2022–2027) is projected to cost Rs 600.47 crore, followed by Rs 100.02 crore in the second phase (2028–2033) and Rs 77.68 crore in the third phase (2034–2039).
In total, the Sannidhanam development initiative is estimated at Rs 778.17 crore.
For Pampa, a budget of Rs 207.48 crore has been set aside—comprising Rs 184.75 crore for the first phase (2022–2027) and Rs 22.73 crore for the second phase (2028–2033).
The development of the trekking route is expected to cost Rs 47.97 crore, divided into two phases (2022–2026).
Summing it all up, the total projected investment for Sannidhanam, Pampa, and the trekking route stands at Rs 1,033.62 crore.
Apart from the Master Plan budget, the government has also invested Rs 116.41 crore through the KIIFB to enhance facilities for pilgrims.
This expenditure includes the construction of rest houses at Kazhakkoottam, Chengannur, Chirangara, Erumeli, Nilakkal, and Maniyankode.
The figures were revealed in response to inquiries from MLAs P. Anilkumar, Eldhose P. Kunnappilly, and C. R. Mahesh.
Nestled in Kerala’s Pathanamthitta district, the Sabarimala hill shrine, located at an elevation of 3,000 feet in the Western Ghats, is among the most esteemed pilgrimage sites in India.
Each year, it draws millions of devotees, who traditionally observe a 41-day penance before making the barefoot pilgrimage from the banks of the Pampa River.
Point of View
I believe that the ongoing investment in Sabarimala reflects Kerala's commitment to supporting its rich cultural heritage and facilitating a better pilgrimage experience for devotees. The planned development projects are poised to enhance not just the infrastructure but also the spiritual experience of millions who visit this sacred site every year.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total investment planned for Sabarimala development?
The total projected investment for the Sabarimala development, including Sannidhanam, Pampa, and the trekking route, stands at Rs 1,033.62 crore.
How much has been spent on Sabarimala development so far?
Kerala has spent Rs 70.37 crore on various development projects for Sabarimala between 2016 and 2025.
What are the phases of development for Sannidhanam?
The development of Sannidhanam is planned in three phases: the first phase (2022-2027) costing Rs 600.47 crore, the second phase (2028-2033) costing Rs 100.02 crore, and the third phase (2034-2039) costing Rs 77.68 crore.
What facilities are being developed for pilgrims?
Facilities include rest houses located at various points like Kazhakkoottam, Chengannur, and Erumeli, with a total expenditure of Rs 116.41 crore through the KIIFB.
Why is Sabarimala significant?
Sabarimala is one of India's most revered pilgrimage sites, attracting millions of devotees who undertake a 41-day penance before making the pilgrimage.
