Best Places To Visit In Kerala During Onam Festival

7 min readAug 10, 2023

Another Onam Season unfolds in God’s Own Country! A joyful time of happiness and harmony that unites the hearts and souls, showcasing Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. With its roots entwined in mythology and folklore, Onam marks the homecoming of the legendary and benevolent King Mahabali, under whose reign all humans lived in happiness and equality. Sent to Pathala or the netherworld by Vamana (an avatar of Lord Vishnu), he is believed to visit his beloved subjects every year on the ‘Thiruvonam’ Day.

The festivities of Onam span over ten days, commencing on the auspicious Atham Day (August 20, 2023) and culminating in grand splendour on Thiruvonam Day (August 29, 2023). The vibrant Pookalams (floral carpets) adorning every doorsteps of Kerala, symbolize the welcoming of their beloved King Mahabali with heartfelt warmth. Men and women donning exquisite traditional attire add an aura of elegance to the festivity while the swirling swings bring back carefree memories of childhood. The graceful moves of Thiruvathirakali and the exuberant revelry of Pulikali showcase the cultural richness of the Onam Festival while the exhilarating boat races, with the majestic Chundan Vallams gliding on the boundless backwaters, symbolize the spirit of unity and friendly competition. And, of course, the Onasadya, the sumptuous feast of myriad flavours and delicacies served on banana leaves, brings people closer, savouring flavours and traditions passed down through generations.

Recommended Tour Packages

As the entire state revels in the splendour of Onam, this is the right time to visit Kerala. To catch the real festivity of Onam in all its glory, head to these enchanting places in Kerala:

Thripunithura:

Thripunithura is undeniably one of the top places to visit in Kerala during the festive season of Onam. This charming town in Ernakulam district becomes a hub of vibrant celebrations and cultural extravaganza during Onam.

Also Read:- Best Places to Celebrate Onam Festival in Kerala

The celebrations of Onam kick off at Thripunithura with a spectacular cultural extravaganza called the Athachamayam. This grand procession featuring caparisoned elephants, dance performances, traditional music, floats, and various art forms of Kerala that grace the streets is a sight to behold, leaving visitors in awe and admiration for the splendid display of heritage and talent of the state. Moreover, the annual Athachamayam Procession is a heartfelt tribute, commemorating the historic march of the Maharaja of Kochi from Thripunithura to the Vamanamoorthy Temple in Thrikkakara. Thripunithura further enthrals visitors with a plethora of cultural events held throughout the ten-day festival which not only entertain but also provide an opportunity to learn and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.

Venue: Layam Ground, Thripunithura.

Date: 20 August 2023

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 33.2 Km.

Nearest Railway Station: Thripunithura Railway Station, about 2.3 Km.

Thrikkakara Temple:

Thrikkakara Temple in Ernakulam should be on every traveller’s Onam itinerary. Visiting Thrikkakara Temple during Onam is not only an enriching cultural experience but also a spiritual journey that allows one to be a part of the timeless festivities and rituals associated with this grand celebration. Dedicated to Vamana avatar of Lord Vishnu, this ancient temple holds immense significance as it is believed to be the birthplace of the Onam festival itself.

Also Read:- 10 Awesome Places In South India You Should Visit Once In A Lifetime

The Onam celebrations at Thrikkakara Temple commence with a special flag hoisting ceremony on the auspicious Atham Day. From then on, the festive spirit continues to crescendo over the next nine days, with a delightful array of cultural events, mesmerizing music performances, and captivating dance displays. Not to miss is the Pakalpooram during which the temple deity is reverently carried on an elephant, encircling the temple grounds, creating a truly divine and blessed moment for all who witness it. Pakalpooram takes place on the day before Thiruvonam and the Onam festivities at Thrikkakara Temple culminates with the Arattu ceremony, where the temple deity is given a holy bath.

Venue: Thrikkakara Temple, Ernakulam.

Date: 20 August 2023 to 29 August 2023.

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 20.8 Km.

Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Town Railway Station, about 8.5 Km.

Thrissur:

The cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur, is a place that truly comes alive during the festive season of Onam. To fully immerse yourself in the exuberant spirit of Onam, a visit to Thrissur’s Swaraj Round is an absolute must where you will be treated to the electrifying and mesmerizing spectacle of Pulikali (Tiger Dance).

Also Read:- Best Places To Visit In Kerala

An incredible traditional art form of Kerala, the Pulikali vividly portrays the theme of a tiger hunt, where the tiger-clad men mimic the movement of tigers to the throbbing beats of percussion music. Besides Pulikali, numerous cultural events, musical performances, and traditional art forms like Kathakali, Thiruvathirakali, and folk dances that honour Kerala’s rich heritage are held all over the city, delighting locals and tourists alike.

Venue: Swaraj Round, Thrissur.

Date: 01 September 2023.

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 53.1 Km.

Nearest Railway Station: Thrissur Railway Station, 2.5 Km.

Trivandrum:

Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala, offers an enchanting setting to indulge in the vibrant Onam celebrations. For ten delightful days, the city dons a festive avatar, adorned with decorative lights and hosting a plethora of activities and events making it a must-visit during the festival season.

Also Read:- 10 Awesome Places In South India You Should Visit Once In A Lifetime

From mesmerizing Pookalam contests to captivating stage shows, dance competitions, and folk arts performances, there is something for everyone to revel in. Trivandrum witnesses a massive procession of decorated elephants marching gracefully through the streets on Thiruvonam Day. The floats showcasing the cultural highlights of Kerala add an extra charm to the procession, leaving spectators in awe of the rich heritage of the land. You will also get a chance to savour the grand traditional feast, Onasadya featuring an array of mouth-watering vegetarian delicacies, served on banana leaves on Thiruvonam Day.

Venue: Trivandrum

Date: 20 August 2023 to 29 August 2023.

Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 6.7 Km.

Nearest Railway Station: Trivandrum Central Railway Station, about 5.6 Km.

Aranmula:

Aranmula Uthrattathi Boat Race is one of the most captivating events of Onam celebrations. Held with great fanfare and excitement on the banks of the picturesque River Pamba, near the historic Aranmula Sri Parthasarathy Temple, this iconic water carnival is a celebration of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.

Also Read:- The Evolution of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race: From Tradition to Tourism

To witness this thrilling spectacle, one must venture to Aranmula, a serene village nestled in Kerala’s Pathanamthitta district, during the Onam festivity. The Aranmula Uthrattathi Boat Race promises a mesmerizing treat to the senses as ornamentally decorated boats, manned by skilled rowers and accompanied by enthusiastic drummers, race through the waters in perfect harmony with the energetic boat songs.

Venue: River Pamba, Aranmula, Pathanamthitta district.

Date: 02 September 2023.

Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 117 Km.

Nearest Railway Station: Chengannur Railway Station, about 10 Km.

Alleppey:

Alleppey with its idyllic setting and tranquil ambiance, offers a refreshing and soulful escape for those seeking an extraordinary Onam celebration. Celebrating Onam in a houseboat at Alleppey can be a truly unique and memorable experience.

Also Read:- 10 Most Popular Temples of South India in 2023

The houseboat cruise with dazzling views of tranquil backwaters, lush greenery, and picturesque villages would add a whole new dimension to the celebration. Indulge in the joy of making your own Pookalam and enjoy the delicious Onasadya as you cruise the darling backwaters of Kerala.

Venue: Alleppey.

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 82.8 Km.

Nearest Railway Station: Alleppey Railway Station, 3.7 Km.

And there you have it, the 6 Best Places to Visit in Kerala During Onam 2023. With each place offering a unique flavour of Onam, your getaway to God’s Own Country during this festive season promises to be an extraordinary experience of joy and cultural immersion.

If you are planning to celebrate the Onam Festival in Kerala, make sure you consider these places to make this festive season an unforgettable one for you.

Come, celebrate Onam in Kerala, and indulge in the fun, excitement, and fervor of this vibrant festival!

Wishing You All a Very Happy & Prosperous Onam in Advance!

Get ready to feel the real thrill and the heart-thumping excitement that awaits you in God’s Own Country Kerala

South Tourism — on of the best tour operator in India, offers you the best South India holiday packages and customized tour packages to treat you with an unforgettable vacation in Incredible India.

Enquire now and grab the best deals and offers!

www.southtourism.in