onam festival in kerala

The most popular festival in Kerala is Onam-a time when the state fills with the colours of festivity, rich food, folk art and amusement. The state festival, Onam is a celebration of grand thanksgiving and harvest, across ten colorful days. The festival celebrates the New Year in the Malayalam months of Chingam or typically August-September.

The Myth Behind Onam: King Mahabali’s Return

• The morale of the legend revolves around Asura King Mahabali who was a wise and righteous ruler. His reign can be regarded as the golden era of Kerala.
• When the gods became jealous of the strength of Mahabali they approached Lord Vishnu with this matter. Vishnu came back as a dwarf priest called Vamana and asked land of only three paces.
• Mahabali accepted this and Vamana grew as large as cosmos with the first step covering heaven, second earth, and the third step was proposed to be offered by Mahabali himself. Mahabali wished to go back to his people once a year and Vishnu complied.

Key Onam Rituals & Festivities

• Atham marks the beginning of the festival in a symbolic manner with hoisting of flags (Kodiyettu) at thrikkakara Temple, said to be the abode of Mahabali.
• Family houses are swept and decorated with elaborate Pookkalam (floral rangoli) in order to welcome Mahabali.
• Onam Sadhya is a veritable vegetarian feast that is served on banana leaves and consists of 20-64 dishes (such as Avial, Sambar, Payasam and more).
• Traditional dances and performances enliven the celebrations:
   
  • Thiruvathira, Kathakali and Mohiniyattam are the expressive forms of dance with strong elements of culture.
  • Tiger Dance (Known as Pulikali) in which artists painted as tigers and perform some playful acts is also well known, particularly in Thrissur.
     
  • Kummattikali - Performed during the Kerala festivities by performers who move around the houses and collects gifts.
  • Kalaripayattu theories-Based martial-dance Onathallu with semi-contact fighting moves.
     
• The renowned Vallam Kali (snake boat races) - boat races as Aranmula and Nehru Trophy are special editions since they symbolise the watery roots of Kerala.
• In continuation of Thiruvonam, post-festivals such as Avittom have been observed by submerging the Onathappan statue (which is placed in the center of the Pookkalam) into water to send Mahabali off.

Why Onam Resonates: Cultural Significance & Communal Spirit

Immerse Yourself in Onam: Travel & Celebration Tips

• Attend Athachamayam in Thrippunithura, the festive Sadhya at family homes, the snake boat races in Alleppey and the cultural pageantry in the state.
• Engage Locally: Participate in Pookkalam competition, enjoy village cultural programs, or help in preparing Sadhya at the time of the community feasts.
• Plan Ahead: Book in advance room-especially in the week of Onam, when Kerala turns into a beehive of tourists and revelers.

Why an Adventure River Cruise Is the Ideal Onam Stay

Just as the festivities come to their climax, dream of floating along the backwaters of Kerala on an Adventure River Cruise- its serenity, culture and luxury all in on smooth float. The picturesque canals, old fashioned village views and the gourmet meals served on-board make this real life experience a very special one that uplifts your Onam into an experience of the soul and senses.

Whether you're gliding past paddy fields at dawn or enjoying regional delicacies while anchored under swaying palms, the Adventure River Cruise is the ultimate festive retreat—combining tradition, relaxation, and exclusivity.