Sabarimala hill shrine in Kerala is witnessing a surge of devotees ahead of the Makaravilakku festival, as pilgrims continue to arrive in large numbers during the peak phase of the Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season. Long queues have been reported at the temple and along trekking routes, prompting authorities to intensify crowd management, security, and medical arrangements. The Travancore Devaswom Board and state agencies have put traffic regulations in place to ensure smooth darshan, with the rush expected to increase further as the auspicious Makaravilakku ritual approaches.