Virtual queue bookings for darshan at Sabarimala have been fully booked until December 25, according to the Devaswom authorities. Pilgrims who were unable to secure a virtual queue slot will have to depend on spot booking, but only 5,000 people are allowed on busy days, and hence not everyone may get a chance for darshan.
The influx of devotees increased sharply on Tuesday evening, leading to long queues on the sacred steps, though the temple premises had remained relatively less crowded until afternoon.
On December 26, the day the Thanga Anki procession reaches Sabarimala, the temple will close after the noon puja to adorn the Thanga Anki, followed by Deeparadhana. Devotees will not be allowed to climb the steps or enter the temple during this period.
With Mandala Pooja scheduled for noon on December 27, Neyyabhishekam will be offered only until 10 a.m. on that day.