Yatra

Preparing for the Yatra

The yatra begins only after the 41-day vratham is kept. The devotee does not start the journey with an unprepared mind. The Irumudi is tied, the mala remains, and the climb is done with the body and the speech still under niyama.

The Two Traditional Routes

There are two recognised paths to the sannidhanam.

Pedda Padam (the longer traditional route)
This is the older forest path. It begins at Erumeli. From Erumeli the devotee proceeds through Aluda Nadi, Karimala and Periyanavattam, and reaches Pamba. From Pamba the climb continues to the sannidhanam. This route is longer and passes through the forest. It is undertaken by those who choose the full traditional path.

Chinna Padam (the shorter route)
This route reaches Pamba more directly. From Pamba the devotee climbs through Apachimedu, Neelimala, Shabari Peedam and Sharan Kutti, then ascends the Pathinettampadi to the sannidhanam. Most devotees today use this path after reaching Pamba.

Both routes end at the same sannidhanam. The choice of route does not reduce the 41-day vratham or the requirement of the Irumudi and the mala.

The Irumudi

The Irumudi is the two-compartment bag carried on the head. The front compartment holds the offerings for the Lord. The rear compartment holds the devotee’s own needs for the journey. It is tied with care, usually in the presence of the Guru Swamy or elders. Once tied, it is not opened casually. The devotee carries it himself.

The Pathinettampadi

The 18 holy steps are climbed only by those who have observed the vratham and carry the Irumudi. Footwear is removed before the steps. The devotee climbs slowly, one step at a time, with the name of the Lord. There is no pushing. The one who has kept the body light during the 41 days finds the steps possible.

At the top of the steps is the sannidhanam. The devotee offers what he has brought in the Irumudi and stands before the Lord.

What the Kanni Swamy should remember

  • Walk behind the Guru Swamy. Do not lead.
  • Keep the Irumudi secure on the head.
  • Do not remove the mala until the return.
  • Speak less on the path.
  • Know which route you are taking before you start. Do not mix the paths in confusion.

The yatra is the completion of the 41 days. The devotee who reaches the sannidhanam with the mala still around his neck and the Irumudi still on his head has kept what he undertook.