Backwaters and beaches were at the top of my bucket list when I first visited. Little did I know that Kerala’s festivals would become the highlight of my journeys.
After experiencing numerous festivities, I can confidently say that the festivals of Kerala welcome you with the most vibrant colours of life, joy, happiness and culture.
Sure, pronouncing names like Theyyam, Attukal Pongala, and Kodungallur Bharani can be tongue-twisting. But trust me, they are worth every effort.
And I owe a big thank you to Indian Holiday for turning every trip into a seamless, unforgettable experience. From start to finish, their expertise enriched my journey in ways I never imagined.
Now, let me walk you through the festivals that left me mesmerized year after year. This is not just my story, it is your Kerala Festival Guide.
Why Kerala’s Festivals Are A Cultural Treasure
Traditional festivals of Kerala connect different communities with the thread of culture. If you ask me, no matter how many festivals i have attended, i still want more of such an experience. Each festival follows the ancient tradition. But one thing that I like the most is how stories and legends connect with almost every festival. After interacting with locals and witnessing the hospitality, I was stunned and suggested you visit here.
Famous Festivals Of Kerala
While enjoying sightseeing, I discovered that I could attend some festivals during my trip. But, with the speed of light, a realization comes to me that there are countless, and I can’t even count on my fingers for the famous ones. So, I have attended some famous ones listed below for the coming consecutive year.
Note: The festival dates change every year as per the Malayalam calendar. So, make sure to cross-check the exact date before visiting here.
January to March
1. Makaravilakku
Attending Makaravilakku was one of the most spiritual experiences of my life. The air was heavy with chants and prayers as pilgrims thronged the Sabarimala Temple. Witnessing the divine light atop the hill was not just a sight but an emotion that reverberated through the crowd. This festival felt like a powerful reminder of faith and belief.
Where to attend: Sabarimala Temple, Pathanamthitta
When to attend next: 14th Jan 2025
2. Thiruvathira
Thiruvathira is a festival that beautifully celebrates tradition and devotion. Watching women perform the Thiruvathirakali dance around a traditional lamp was mesmerizing. The songs, the attire, and the synchronized steps all come together to honour Lord Shiva and the essence of marital harmony. This festival felt like a graceful blend of spirituality and celebration.
Where to attend: Temples across Kerala, especially in Thiruvananthapuram
When to attend next: 13th Jan 2025
3. Attukal Pongala
I have never seen such a large gathering of women for a single cause. The streets of Thiruvananthapuram transform into open kitchens during Attukal Pongala. Women, irrespective of age or background, cook offerings for the goddess in earthen pots. Watching this sheer devotion and participating in it felt profoundly humbling and inspiring.
Where to attend: Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram
4. Ambalapuzha Arattu
This festival carries an air of simplicity and devotion that feels deeply comforting. The highlight is the ritual bath of the deity in the river, accompanied by traditional music and chants. Being part of this serene celebration at the Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple felt like stepping back in time, where traditions still reign supreme.
Where to attend: Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Alappuzha
When to attend next: 25th Feb 2025
April to June
5. Kodungalloor Bharani
The high-energy rituals of Kodungalloor Bharani stand apart from anything I have ever seen. The intensity with which devotees sing folk songs and perform their offerings left me in awe of the cultural depth and passion of Kerala’s festivals. This celebration felt raw and unfiltered, showing a side of Kerala that speaks to its ancient roots.
Where to attend: Kodungalloor Bhagavathy Temple, Thrissur
When to attend next: 31st Mar 2025 to 1st Apr 2025
6. Vishu
The celebration of Vishu is rooted in joy and togetherness. The day begins with Vishukkani, a stunning display of prosperity that brings hope for the year ahead. The family feasts, gifts, and rituals during Vishu create an environment that feels wholesome and warm, and it reminded me why festivals are such an integral part of Kerala’s identity.
Where to attend: Across Kerala in homes and temples
When to attend next: 14th April 2025
July to September
7. Onam
Onam is not just a festival but an explosion of cultural pride and traditions. The ten-day celebration included everything from flower carpets to boat races and grand feasts that felt like an invitation to experience the richness of Kerala’s heritage. Every aspect of Onam, from the Vallamkali boat races to the Onasadya feast, reflects the joy and prosperity associated with this harvest festival.
Where to attend: Across Kerala, with significant celebrations in Thrissur and Alappuzha
When to attend next: 5th Sep 2025
October to December
8. Alpashi Utsavam
I had the chance to attend the Alpashi Utsavam, which was a mesmerizing experience. The deity Anantha Padmanabhan is taken on processions for ten days using various vahanas (vehicles) like Simhasana, Anantha, Kamala, Pallakku, Garuda, and Indra. The most memorable moments for me were the Pallakku and Garuda Vahanams.
Where to attend: Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Trivandrum
When to attend next: 21st Oct 2025 to 30th Oct 2025
9. Vaikathashtami
The festival showcases everything from vibrant Kathakali and music to enchanting rituals. One of my favourite moments was the Ashtami Vilakku, where countless lamps illuminated the temple grounds, creating a magical atmosphere. The grand finale, where the deity’s replica is carried on an elephant and accompanied by processions from nearby temples, is nothing short of a visual treat.
Where to attend: Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, Kottayam
When to attend next: 12th Dec 2025
10. Kalpathi Ratholsavam
Attending this festival is unlike anything I have ever experienced. Watching the three grand chariots, beautifully adorned and pulled through the narrow streets of Kalpathi, was incredible. The highlight for me was the final day when five chariots from different temples converged in front of the Sree Viswanatha Swamy Temple. Seeing the majestic chariots and the crowd’s devotion made it an unforgettable experience.
Where to attend: Sree Viswanatha Swamy Temple, Palakkad
When to attend next: 14th Nov 2025 to 16 Novth 2025
How To Enjoy Kerala’s Vibrant Celebrations
Whether it is the lively street processions or the rhythmic beats of traditional music, diving right in is the best way to enjoy these celebrations. Here are some points you should consider for the best experience.
- Participate in the local customs, whether preparing offerings or dancing to traditional music.
- Admire the stunning flower carpets, vibrant attire, and lively decorations everywhere.
- The rhythm of drums and folk songs is at the festivities’ heart
- Engage with the locals, listen to their stories, and feel the collective joy of the occasion.
- Feast on the delicious local dishes served during festivals. Each meal reflects the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
- Enjoy every moment without rushing, soaking in the atmosphere and joy.
From Onam to Boat Races: Must-See Kerala Festivities
There is so much to see and do during these celebrations; each will leave you with memories to treasure. Here are some activities you can watch but not participate in:
- Boat Racing: Witness the adrenaline-pumping snake boat races during Onam, where rowers paddle in perfect sync across the backwaters.
- Theyyam: Watch the stunning ritualistic performances where dancers, dressed in elaborate costumes and makeup, bring ancient stories to life.
- Elephant Processions: Admire the majestic, beautifully adorned elephants as they march through the streets during grand temple festivals.
Savour the Flavors: Kerala Cuisine During Festivals
Food plays a central role in the festivals of Kerala, and the dishes you get to taste are unlike anything you will find anywhere else.
Here are some foods you can only taste during Kerala’s festivals:
- Onam Sadya: A grand vegetarian feast on a banana leaf featuring rice, curries, and traditional desserts like payasam.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed rice cakes served with spicy black chickpea curry, a festive breakfast delight.
- Vishu Kanji: A rice porridge prepared with coconut milk, eaten during Vishu for prosperity and good health.
- Ela Ada: A sweet dish made with rice flour, filled with jaggery and coconut, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
- Banana Chips: Crispy, golden-fried slices of raw banana, typically enjoyed during Onam and other celebrations.
- Sadhya Payasam: A rich, sweet pudding made with rice, milk, and jaggery, served as a dessert during significant festivals like Onam.
Plan Your Kerala Festival Adventure with Indian Holiday
If you want to experience the best of Kerala festivals, you need to plan, and that’s where Indian Holiday comes in. With their expert knowledge of local celebrations, they will ensure you do not miss out on any special moment or experience. Everything from your travel to your accommodations is taken care of from the moment you arrive. All you need to do is enjoy the festivals and enthral yourself in the magic of Kerala.
Your Next Festival Trip Starts Here: Ready to Book?
Now that you can glimpse Kerala’s famous festivals, it is time to turn your dream trip into reality. Whether you are craving the energy of Onam or the excitement of a boat race, your Kerala adventure starts here. With everything taken care of, you can focus on having the time of your life. Ready to book your Kerala trip? The celebrations are waiting for you, and so is the adventure of a lifetime.
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