Makara Jyothi 2026 Darshan Date and Time at Sabarimala: Complete Guide to Makaravilakku Festival

January 16, 2026
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Makara Jyothi 2026 Darshan Date and Time at Sabarimala: Complete Guide to Makaravilakku Festival

Makara Jyothi, also known as Makara Jyoti or Makaravilakku Jyothi, is one of the most sacred and awaited divine events in Hinduism, especially for devotees of Lord Ayyappa at the revered Sabarimala Temple in Kerala. This celestial phenomenon occurs annually on the day of Makara Sankranti, symbolizing divine blessings, spiritual fulfillment, and the culmination of the rigorous Mandala pilgrimage season.

Makara Jyothi 2026 Date and Time

In 2026, Makara Jyothi darshan will take place on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. This date coincides with Makara Sankranti and marks the grand finale of the Sabarimala Mandala-Makaravilakku season.

Makara Vilakku / Makara Sankranti Moment: 3:13 PM IST
Makara Jyothi Darshan Time: Approximately between 6:30 PM and 6:45 PM IST (evening, after sunset). The sacred light typically appears three times, filling the hearts of lakhs of devotees with devotion and chants of “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa.”

The exact visibility depends on weather conditions, but devotees gather from early afternoon at various viewpoints around Sabarimala to witness this miraculous event.

What is Makara Jyothi and Makaravilakku?

Makara Jyothi refers to the divine celestial light (often associated with a bright star like Sirius) that appears in the eastern sky on Makara Sankranti, believed to represent Lord Ayyappa’s divine presence and blessings.

Makara Vilakku is the sacred flame lit thrice on the hilltop at Ponnambalamedu (about 4 km from Sabarimala), symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the eternal light of dharma.

Together, they form the highlight of the Makaravilakku festival, drawing millions of pilgrims who complete their 41-day vrat (austerity period) to seek darshan.

Significance of Makara Jyothi Darshan

Witnessing Makara Jyothi is considered the spiritual climax of the Sabarimala pilgrimage. Devotees undertake the 41-day Mandala Kalam vratham—observing celibacy, sattvic diet, wearing black/blue clothes, and chanting mantras—to purify body, mind, and soul. The darshan brings immense peace, fulfillment, and Lord Ayyappa’s grace.

This event also aligns with the cosmic transition of the Sun into Capricorn (Makara Rasi), signifying new beginnings, prosperity, and spiritual elevation.

How to Witness Makara Jyothi Darshan in 2026

Pilgrims can view the sacred light from key locations around Sabarimala, including:

Sannidhanam (temple premises)
Pampa
Sabari Peedam
Appachimedu
Other hill viewpoints

Due to massive crowds, authorities implement crowd control, special passes, and security measures. Virtual darshan and live telecasts are available on channels like DD Malayalam, Asianet, and official platforms for those unable to visit physically.

Tips for Devotees Planning Sabarimala Visit in 2026

Complete the 41-day vratham strictly.
Book virtual queue for darshan via the official Sabarimala portal.
Carry essentials like Irumudi Kettu and follow temple guidelines.
Stay updated on travel restrictions and weather.

Makara Jyothi 2026 promises to be a profoundly divine experience for all Ayyappa bhaktas. Whether you’re trekking to Sabarimala or watching from afar, may Lord Ayyappa shower his blessings upon you!

Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa! For the latest updates, visit the official Travancore Devaswom Board website or trusted sources.

For More Devotional Journey, Follow

Temples
https://hindutone.com/temples/
Tirumala Updates
https://hindutone.com/tirumala/
Sabarimala Yatra
https://hindutone.com/category/sabarimala-yatra/
Pooja, Slokas & Mantras
https://hindutone.com/pooja-slokas-and-mantras/
Hindu Gods
https://hindutone.com/hindu-gods/

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