Sabarimala
On Makaravilakku night in January, the sacred Makara Jyothi star appears on the Ponnambalamedu hills above Sabarimala — a celestial phenomenon that is one of the most extraordinary sights in all of Indian religious life. The hilltop erupts in chants and the millions of pilgrims gathered on the slopes light their own diyas in response. It is a moment of collective devotion of almost indescribable scale.
The crowds during Makaravilakku are among the densest of any event in India — have a clear meeting point with your group and do not separate. Arrive early and secure your position before sunset.