Every year, thousands of devotees make the sacred trek to Sabarimala to seek the blessings of Lord Ayyappa. With such fervor comes a huge responsibility — for both pilgrims and temple authorities — to manage the massive crowds efficiently and safely. That’s where the Virtual-Q (Virtual Queue) system steps in.
Why Virtual-Q Exists
- Crowd Management: Sabarimala has a very limited capacity for pilgrimage. By using a virtual queue, the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) and the Kerala Police can regulate the number of people entering each day.
- Fairness & Safety: Online booking prevents chaotic long lines and ensures a more organized experience.
- Cost-Free Access: The virtual queue tickets (Q-Coupons) are free.
- Quota & Limits: For the Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season, up to 70,000 devotees are allowed daily via Virtual-Q.The remaining 20,000 are reserved for spot booking.
How to Book Your Virtual-Q Slot
Here’s a step-by-step guide to secure your darshan slot through the online queue:
- Go to the Official Portal
Visit the official Virtual-Q booking website (e.g., sabarimalaonline.org) - Register an Account
- Provide your name, a valid mobile number, email, and ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, etc.).
- Upload a recent photograph (JPG/JPEG, under 30 KB).
- Only those aged 18 years or older can register.
3. Select Date and Slot
- Once logged in, navigate to “Virtual Q / Darshan Slot.”
- On the calendar, available dates are shown in green, fully booked dates in red.
- You can pick a time slot (Morning, Day, Evening, Night) based on what’s available.
4. Add Pilgrim Details
- Enter details for each person in your group: name, age, ID number, and photo.
- You can book for up to 5 pilgrims in one transaction.
- At least one person in the group must be 18+.
5. Confirm & Generate Coupon
- After filling in all the details, you confirm the booking.
- A Q-Coupon is generated, which you must print (or save digitally).
- You will also receive the coupon via email, so make sure the email ID you enter is valid.
Important Guidelines & Rules
- Identity Proof: Bring the same ID card you used during registration, along with the printed or digital Q-Coupon. Officials will check both at the entry.
- Children: Kids under 15 years don’t need to carry an ID card, but a photo is mandatory.
- Entry Restrictions: Female devotees aged 10–50 are not permitted for darshan via this queue, as per current guidelines.
- Cancellation: If you plan to change your pilgrimage date, you must cancel your existing Virtual-Q booking, or you may not be allowed to rebook.
- No Charges: There is no payment for the Virtual-Q coupon itself.
- Fraud Alert: Never pay for a Q-Coupon — it’s free, and you should report any demand for payment.
What Happens on the Day of Your Visit
- Arrive at Pampa (or your chosen entry point) well before your slot to avoid missing your time.
- At the security/check-in point, show both your coupon and ID.
- Once verified, you’ll be allowed into the queue management zones (like Nadapanthal) in the order assigned.
- If you miss your slot or arrive very late, there may be a risk of losing your place. So time management is important.