Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple Closed Until December 29

The renowned Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple, one of India's most revered pilgrimage centers, has been closed following the conclusion of the Mandala Deeksha season. The temple was shut yesterday afternoon after the Mandala Puja, according to temple authorities.

The temple will remain closed until December 29 and will reopen on the evening of December 30 at 5 PM for the Makara Vilakku season. Officials anticipate a massive influx of devotees during the Makara Vilakku festival, which will take place on January 14.

This year, a total of 3,239,756 devotees visited the temple to offer prayers to Lord Ayyappa. The numbers mark an increase compared to the 2,842,447 devotees recorded last year.