{"id":15347,"date":"2025-07-28T17:57:55","date_gmt":"2025-07-28T12:27:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/?p=15347"},"modified":"2025-09-01T14:54:21","modified_gmt":"2025-09-01T09:24:21","slug":"onam-festival-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347","title":{"rendered":"Celebrate Onam in Kerala : Complete Guide to Traditions, Sadya &amp; Boat Races \u2013 Plan Your Trip Now"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Dates to Remember:<br><\/strong>August 26 to September 4, 2025<br>Thiruvonam (Main Day): September 5, 2025<\/p><img width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival-guide-1-1-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-post-single size-post-single wp-post-image\" alt=\"onam-festival-guide-1 (1) (1)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival-guide-1-1-1.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival-guide-1-1-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival-guide-1-1-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival-guide-1-1-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival-guide-1-1-1-638x425.jpg 638w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival-guide-1-1-1-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" title=\"onam-festival-guide-1 (1) (1)\" \/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019ve never heard of Onam, let\u2019s fix that right away. Imagine this: floral carpets on every doorstep, folk songs in the air, boat races that\u2019ll make your heart race, and food so divine it feels like a hug on a banana leaf. That\u2019s Onam in a nutshell\u2014but honestly, it\u2019s more than that. It\u2019s Kerala\u2019s grandest celebration. And in 2025, it&#8217;s shaping up to be even more colorful, thanks to a long weekend starting with Thiruvonam on a Friday. Talk about perfect timing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_89 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\/#The_Story_Behind_Onam\" >The Story Behind Onam:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\/#Important_Days_of_Onam_2025\" >Important Days of Onam 2025<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\/#What_Does_Onam_Feel_Like_in_Kerala\" >What Does Onam Feel Like in Kerala?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\/#Thiruvonam_The_Main_Celebration_Day\" >Thiruvonam : The Main Celebration Day<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\/#Where_to_Celebrate_Onam_in_Kerala\" >Where to Celebrate Onam in Kerala:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\/#Major_Events_During_Onam_2025\" >Major Events During Onam 2025<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\/#Pookalam_Flower_Designs_That_Steal_the_Show\" >Pookalam : Flower Designs That Steal the Show<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\/#Sadya_A_Traditional_Kerala_Meal_You_Must_Try\" >Sadya : A Traditional Kerala Meal You Must Try<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\/#Boat_Races_and_Cultural_Fun\" >Boat Races and Cultural Fun:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\/#How_to_Plan_Your_Trip_to_Kerala_for_Onam_2025\" >How to Plan Your Trip to Kerala for Onam 2025:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\/#FAQs\" >FAQs:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Story_Behind_Onam\"><\/span>The Story Behind Onam:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we hop into houseboats and feast on sadya, a quick story time?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Onam celebrates the return of <strong>King Mahabali<\/strong>, a mythical ruler so beloved that even the gods got a bit jealous. Legend says he was sent to the underworld by Vamana (an avatar of Lord Vishnu), but before leaving, he asked to visit his people once a year. That day? Thiruvonam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s beautiful, really. A festival built on a promise\u2014a king who loved his people, and people who never forgot him. Now, doesn\u2019t that tug a little at the heart?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival.png\" alt=\"The Story Behind Onam\" class=\"wp-image-15643\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival.png 683w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival-133x200.png 133w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival-283x425.png 283w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival-150x225.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Important_Days_of_Onam_2025\"><\/span>Important Days of Onam 2025<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are planning your tour to Kerala during Onam, checkout these important date before you book your package.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Atham<\/strong>: The first day of Onam, when people start making <em>Pookalam<\/em> (floral designs) and preparations begin.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chithira<\/strong>: Homes are cleaned and more layers are added to the floral decorations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chodhi<\/strong>: Onam shopping begins\u2014new clothes (Onakkodi) and festive items are bought.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vishakam<\/strong>: Cooking for Sadya begins in many homes; markets are full of activity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Anizham<\/strong>: Snake boat races (Vallam Kali) start in some regions, especially near Alappuzha.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Thriketa<\/strong>: Families start coming together; more flowers and excitement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Moolam<\/strong>: Temples begin hosting special Onam feasts and traditional dances.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pooradam<\/strong>: Small clay figures of King Mahabali and Vamana are placed in homes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Uthradom<\/strong>: Considered the eve of Onam; people finish shopping and final decorations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Thiruvonam (Main Day)<\/strong>: The biggest day of Onam with the grand Onam Sadya, new clothes, cultural events, and family reunions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_Onam_Feel_Like_in_Kerala\"><\/span>What Does Onam Feel Like in Kerala?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Think of the air smelling faintly of jasmine and fried bananas. Morning sun dancing on the Pookalam (floral design) at your homestay entrance. Women in white and gold sarees humming old tunes. And that little burst of percussion from the chenda drums that just hits differently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And you\u2014yes, the traveller with your camera and curiosity\u2014don\u2019t worry. You\u2019re not just a guest here. During Onam, everyone belongs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read Also:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/monsoon-festivals-india-779\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">14 Famous Monsoon Festivals in India to Celebrate This Season<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Thiruvonam_The_Main_Celebration_Day\"><\/span>Thiruvonam : The Main Celebration Day<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Thiruvonam-1.jpg\" alt=\"Thiruvonam \" class=\"wp-image-15645\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Thiruvonam-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Thiruvonam-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Thiruvonam-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Thiruvonam-1-267x200.jpg 267w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Thiruvonam-1-567x425.jpg 567w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Thiruvonam-1-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thiruvonam isn\u2019t just the tenth day of Onam\u2014it\u2019s the heart of it all. In 2025, it falls on a Friday, making it perfect for a long weekend getaway (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/state\/kerala\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kerala<\/a> Tourism is already gearing up, trust me).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s what typically goes down:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Sadya<\/strong>: The traditional vegetarian feast served on banana leaves\u2014up to 26 dishes if you\u2019re lucky. From crispy banana chips to tangy sambar to the irresistible payasam at the end&#8230; It&#8217;s honestly a food coma waiting to happen. And worth every bite.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>New clothes (Onakkodi)<\/strong>: Locals wear new traditional outfits\u2014think men in mundu and women in kasavu sarees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cultural programs<\/strong>: Watch performances of Kathakali, Pulikali (tiger dance), and folk music that\u2019ll make you wonder how your feet started tapping on their own.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Games and competitions<\/strong>: From tug-of-war to Uriyadi (pot breaking), Onam games are simple but oddly thrilling.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You know what? Even if you don\u2019t know the customs, just being there, soaking it all in&#8230; that\u2019s enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_Celebrate_Onam_in_Kerala\"><\/span>Where to Celebrate Onam in Kerala:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/places\/trivandrum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Thiruvananthapuram<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/places\/kochi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kochi<\/a>, Thrissur, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/places\/alleppey\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Alappuzha<\/a>\u2014each place celebrates Onam in its own style.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Thrissur<\/strong>: Great for temple events and the famous Pulikali (tiger dance).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Alappuzha (Alleppey)<\/strong>: Ideal for houseboat stays and peaceful backwater vibes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kochi<\/strong>: Modern yet festive, with shopping and events.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Thiruvananthapuram<\/strong>: Traditional celebrations and temple visits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Bonus tip<\/strong>: Catch the <strong>Pulikali dance<\/strong> in Thrissur\u2014it\u2019s wild, colorful, and unforgettable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Major_Events_During_Onam_2025\"><\/span>Major Events During Onam 2025<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Athachamayam:<\/strong> Grand cultural procession marking the start of Onam, held in Thripunithura with floats, music, and folk performances.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pookalam Competitions:<\/strong> Floral design contests held across Kerala, showcasing stunning patterns made entirely with flower petals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Onasadya:<\/strong> Traditional multi-course vegetarian feast served on banana leaves\u2014central to Onam celebrations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pulikali<\/strong>: Men painted as tigers dance through the streets of Thrissur in this wild and colourful folk performance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vallam Kali (Snake Boat Race)<\/strong>: Spectacular <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/popular-boat-races-kerala-228\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">boat races on Kerala\u2019s backwaters<\/a> featuring longboats rowed in perfect rhythm by hundreds of oarsmen.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Thiruvathira Kali<\/strong>: Graceful traditional dance performed by women around a lamp, symbolizing joy and sisterhood.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pookalam_Flower_Designs_That_Steal_the_Show\"><\/span>Pookalam : Flower Designs That Steal the Show<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Pookalam_11zon.jpg\" alt=\"Pookalam\" class=\"wp-image-15646\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Pookalam_11zon.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Pookalam_11zon-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Pookalam_11zon-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Pookalam_11zon-267x200.jpg 267w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Pookalam_11zon-567x425.jpg 567w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Pookalam_11zon-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of Onam\u2019s most enchanting visuals is the Pookalam\u2014floral designs laid out in circular patterns at entrances. It\u2019s Kerala\u2019s version of Rangoli but made entirely with flower petals. No glue, no tricks. Just patience, symmetry, and love.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By the way, you don\u2019t need to just watch. Locals often invite guests to help out. Imagine that: a spontaneous morning making floral art with strangers who become friends over chai.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sadya_A_Traditional_Kerala_Meal_You_Must_Try\"><\/span>Sadya : A Traditional Kerala Meal You Must Try<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"434\" src=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Sadya.jpg\" alt=\"Sadya - A Traditional Kerala Meal\" class=\"wp-image-15352\" style=\"width:800px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Sadya.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Sadya-300x163.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Sadya-768x417.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Sadya-345x187.jpg 345w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Sadya-770x418.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Sadya-150x81.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s served on a banana leaf, and yes\u2014there\u2019s a correct order to how it\u2019s done. The upper half is for side dishes, the bottom for rice. Payasam (the dessert) comes last. And no, cutlery\u2019s not required. Eating with your hands is not just okay\u2014it\u2019s the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each dish has its own charm\u2014olan is creamy and subtle, erissery is hearty, kichadi tangy, thoran crunchy. And if you\u2019re a non-veg enthusiast, don\u2019t worry\u2014many homestays and local kitchens offer Onam-inspired meat dishes as extras.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read Also:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/kerala-food-cuisine-743\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10 Yummy Kerala Cuisines You Must Try<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Boat_Races_and_Cultural_Fun\"><\/span>Boat Races and Cultural Fun:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Events-During-Onam.jpg\" alt=\"Events During Onam\" class=\"wp-image-15350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Events-During-Onam.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Events-During-Onam-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Events-During-Onam-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Events-During-Onam-267x200.jpg 267w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Events-During-Onam-567x425.jpg 567w, https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Events-During-Onam-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another iconic part of Onam? The <strong>Vallam Kali<\/strong>, or snake boat race. Long, sleek boats with rowers paddling in perfect sync, cutting through <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/places\/backwaters-of-kerala\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kerala\u2019s backwaters<\/a> like a rhythmic storm. Even if you catch just one, the energy is electric.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And it\u2019s not just Kerala. Onam\u2019s joy has slowly spread. In cities like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/cities\/places-to-visit-in-bangalore\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bengaluru<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/cities\/places-to-visit-in-mumbai\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mumbai<\/a>, and even Dubai, Malayali communities host cultural events, cooking contests, and mini-sadyas. It\u2019s a little slice of Kerala\u2014without the monsoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read Also:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/monsoon-places-in-kerala-1395\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">12 Best Monsoon Tourist Places in Kerala<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Plan_Your_Trip_to_Kerala_for_Onam_2025\"><\/span>How to Plan Your Trip to Kerala for Onam 2025:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Alright, we offers variety of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/tours\/5-nights-6-days-kochi-munnar-thekkady-kumarakom-trivandrum\">Kerala tour packages<\/a> specially designed for Onam festival. Choose the one which suites your requirement. But before that, consider below important points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Book early<\/strong>. Hotels and homestays fill up quickly around Thiruvonam.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Try a local homestay<\/strong> instead of a chain hotel. You\u2019ll get better stories\u2014and probably a better Sadya.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pack light<\/strong>. It\u2019s humid, and chances are you\u2019ll buy some local cotton anyway.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Respect local customs<\/strong>. Dress modestly, especially during temple visits.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Say yes<\/strong> more. Someone offers you a second serving of payasam? Go for it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why You\u2019ll Remember Onam Even After You Leave:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You don\u2019t need to know the Mahabali story by heart. You don\u2019t need to understand every beat of the chenda. What matters is that during Onam, Kerala feels like a warm, open-hearted festival where everyone\u2019s invited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s not just about the past. It\u2019s about who we become when we celebrate together. That unspoken bond at the Sadya table. That shy smile while helping with the Pookalam. That moment when you realize\u2014you\u2019re not just watching Onam. You\u2019re part of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So yes, if you\u2019re planning one festival trip in 2025? Let it be this one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span>FAQs:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1753684874561\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is Onam and why is it celebrated?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Onam is the biggest festival of Kerala, celebrated to welcome King Mahabali, a beloved mythical ruler. It&#8217;s a joyful time filled with flowers, food, and traditions that bring families and communities together.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1753684890309\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When is Onam in 2025?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Onam celebrations in 2025 are from August 26 to September 4, with the main day Thiruvonam on September 5 (Friday).<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1753684915189\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is Thiruvonam and why is it special?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Thiruvonam is the main day of Onam. It\u2019s when people enjoy the grand Sadya feast, wear new clothes, play traditional games, and take part in cultural programs.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1753684928349\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the story behind Onam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Onam celebrates the return of King Mahabali, who visits his people once a year from the underworld. The festival is all about love, promise, and the bond between a good king and his people.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1753684957445\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is Sadya and how is it served?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Sadya is a traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. It can have up to 26 dishes like sambar, avial, payasam, and banana chips. And yes, eating with your hands is totally the right way!<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1753684986461\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is a Pookalam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Pookalam is a beautiful floral design made using flower petals, usually in circular patterns at home entrances. It\u2019s Kerala\u2019s version of rangoli and adds so much colour to the festival.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1753685033397\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Where should I go to experience Onam in Kerala?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Top places are Thrissur (for Pulikali), Alappuzha (for boat races), Kochi (for a modern touch), and Thiruvananthapuram (for traditional temple celebrations).<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1753685226325\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is Pulikali?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Pulikali is a fun and colourful dance where men paint themselves like tigers and dance through the streets. It\u2019s loud, wild, and a must-see during Onam in Thrissur!<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dates to Remember:August 26 to September 4, 2025Thiruvonam (Main Day): September 5, 2025 If you\u2019ve never heard of Onam, let\u2019s fix that right away. Imagine this: floral carpets on every doorstep, folk songs in the &hellip; <\/p>\n<div class=\"mt-4\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\" class=\"primary-btn inline-flex border bg-white text-orange px-4 py-2 text-base btn-sec\">Continue reading <span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Celebrate Onam in Kerala : Complete Guide to Traditions, Sadya &amp; Boat Races \u2013 Plan Your Trip Now<\/span> <span class=\"meta-nav ml-2\">&rarr;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":16039,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[],"tags":[3],"class_list":["post-15347","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-kerala"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Kerala Onam Festival 2025 Guide : Dates, Traditions &amp; Travel<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Planning to enjoy Onam 2025 in Kerala? Get all details about dates, traditions, Pookalam, Onasadya, and travel tips to make your trip smooth and memorable.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Kerala Onam Festival 2025 Guide : Dates, Traditions &amp; Travel\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Planning to enjoy Onam 2025 in Kerala? Get all details about dates, traditions, Pookalam, Onasadya, and travel tips to make your trip smooth and memorable.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/onam-festival-guide-15347\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"The India\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/TheIndia.co.in\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:author\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/TheIndia.co.in\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-07-28T12:27:55+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-09-01T09:24:21+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.theindia.co.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/onam-festival-guide-1-1-1.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"800\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"TheIndia\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@theindia_co_in\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@TheIndia_co_in\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"TheIndia\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"8 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"TheIndia\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/fa146e9de10cc2fd1e9876d30b0de543\"},\"headline\":\"Celebrate Onam in Kerala : Complete Guide to Traditions, Sadya &amp; Boat Races \u2013 Plan Your Trip Now\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-07-28T12:27:55+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-09-01T09:24:21+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347\"},\"wordCount\":1576,\"commentCount\":1,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/onam-festival-guide-1-1-1.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"Kerala\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347\",\"name\":\"Kerala Onam Festival 2025 Guide : Dates, Traditions & Travel\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/onam-festival-guide-1-1-1.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-07-28T12:27:55+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-09-01T09:24:21+00:00\",\"description\":\"Planning to enjoy Onam 2025 in Kerala? 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It's a joyful time filled with flowers, food, and traditions that bring families and communities together.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347#faq-question-1753684890309\",\"position\":2,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347#faq-question-1753684890309\",\"name\":\"When is Onam in 2025?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Onam celebrations in 2025 are from August 26 to September 4, with the main day Thiruvonam on September 5 (Friday).\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347#faq-question-1753684915189\",\"position\":3,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347#faq-question-1753684915189\",\"name\":\"What is Thiruvonam and why is it special?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Thiruvonam is the main day of Onam. It\u2019s when people enjoy the grand Sadya feast, wear new clothes, play traditional games, and take part in cultural programs.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347#faq-question-1753684928349\",\"position\":4,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.theindia.co.in\\\/blog\\\/onam-festival-guide-15347#faq-question-1753684928349\",\"name\":\"What is the story behind Onam?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Onam celebrates the return of King Mahabali, who visits his people once a year from the underworld. 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