Panguni Uthiram Nadai Payanam – Walking Instructions 

Please review the instructions below to ensure a safe, smooth, and devotional walking experience on Saturday, April 4th, 2026.

1. Registration (Mandatory)

  • Registration is required for all participants, and it's FREE.
  • Register Here
  • Please register each family member who plans to walk.
  • Registration helps us plan safety, food, and logistics effectively.

2. Check‑In

  • Check‑in Desk Location: Grove #24, Busse Woods Forest Preserve (Starting Point)
  • Starting Point: MAP
  • Please verify your name at the check‑in desk and collect a wristband.
  • ⚠️ Lunch will be provided only to participants wearing a wristband.

3. Walking Details

a. General

  • Starting Point (Both Walks): Grove #24
  • End Point: Shri Shirdi Sai Mandir MAP
  • Parking: Park at the Grove #24 parking lot.
  • After temple events, a volunteer‑run shuttle will drop participants back to the Grove #24 parking lot.

b. 3‑Mile Walk

  • Estimated time: ~1 hour
  • 3‑Mile Route: MAP
  • Directions:
    • Take a left from the starting point
    • Follow the Red Trail
    • At the Red & Black trail intersection, take a left and continue on the Black Trail

c. 10‑Mile Walk

  • Estimated time: ~3.5–4 hours
  • 10‑Mile Route: Map
  • Directions:
    • Take a right from the starting point
    • Follow the Red Trail
    • At the Red & Black trail intersection, take a left and continue on the Black Trail

4. Restrooms

  • Restrooms at the forest preserve will be closed.
  • Portable restrooms will be available along the route.

5. Dress Code & Preparation

  • Dress modestly and comfortably (Indian or Western attire).
  • Wear layers, which will help later when it gets warmer.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended.

6. Trail Rules & Safety

  • Stay to the right of the yellow line and walk single or double file when possible.
  • Be courteous—this is a shared public trail with walkers and cyclists.
  • Do not block trails; step aside when stopping or taking breaks.
  • Avoid muddy or wet trails to prevent trail damage.
  • Strollers and wheelchairs are allowed.
  • Pets are allowed on trails, but:
    • Pets are not permitted inside the temple.
    • Participants bringing pets must arrange their own return to the parking lot.
    • Shuttle volunteers may not be able to transport pets.
  • Carry refillable water bottles to stay hydrated.
  • Please dispose of trash responsibly or carry it with you.

7. Water Stations

  • Three water stations with light snacks will be available along the route.
  • Locations are marked on the trail maps.
  • ⚠️Bring a refillable water bottle.
  • To reduce plastic waste, no disposable water bottles will be provided.

8. Temple Events

  • Temple events begin at 10:30 AM at the temple parking lot.
  • Kavadi: Available to carry from the parking lot to the temple (Payment required)
  • Abhishegam: You can do Palabishegam for lord Murugan (Payment required)
  • Archana: Available at the temple (Payment required)

9. Lunch

  • Complimentary lunch will be provided only to registered walkers.
  • The wristband is required to receive lunch.

10. Shuttle Service

  • Shuttle pick‑up location: Behind the temple.
  • Shuttle service begins around 12:30 PM.
  • One person per family will be transported to retrieve the parked vehicle.

11. Volunteers Needed

We need volunteers to help make this event successful.

  • Please sign up if you are available to assist with logistics, water stations, or shuttle coordination.
  • Signup Here