If you’ve ever wanted to witness Kerala at its most joyful and culturally alive, the Onam Festival in Kerala is your perfect window.
There’s truly no better time to experience the spirit of this beautiful state. During these festive days, every home, street, and village is alive — with flowers, colors, music, and a kind of joy that’s hard to put into words.
From massive snake boats racing through the backwaters to the mouth-watering Onasadya feast served on banana leaves, the Onam Festival in Kerala is when the state is at its vibrant best. And the best part? You don’t just watch it from the sidelines — you can actually be part of it.
What’s Onam All About?
The Onam Festival in Kerala is the state’s biggest and most cherished celebration.
It’s held in honour of King Mahabali, a mythical ruler who once governed Kerala with justice, kindness, and equality. Legend says that once a year, Mahabali returns to see how his people are doing — and Keralites welcome him with open arms and full hearts.
More than a religious festival, Onam is a cultural celebration that unites everyone, regardless of faith or background. It’s a time of harvest joy, where tradition meets togetherness, and families, friends, and entire communities come together in festive spirit.
Onam’s Must-See Moments
There’s a lot going on during the Onam Festival in Kerala, but here are the highlights you absolutely shouldn’t miss:
- Vallam Kali – Traditional snake boat races with drums, cheering, and electrifying energy
- Pookalam – Beautiful floral carpets designed fresh every day
- Onasadya – A vegetarian feast (think 20+ dishes!) served on banana leaves
- Athachamayam – A cultural parade with folk dances, decorated elephants, and traditional music
- Pulikali – Dancers painted as tigers fill the streets of Thrissur in a lively spectacle
- Traditional Dress – Locals wear elegant Kerala attire like the Mundu and Kasavu Saree
- Onam Games – Enjoy traditional games like Oonjal (swing), Vadam Vali (tug of war), and more
What We Offer: Celebrate Onam, Not Just See It
At Hivision Tours, we believe travel should feel like home — not just a checklist of sights. That’s why we’ve crafted a one-of-a-kind Onam Festival in Kerala experience, where you’ll celebrate with a local family and dive deep into Kerala’s culture and traditions.
Here’s what your Onam with us looks like:
- Join locals to collect flowers in the morning for the Pookalam
- Dress up in authentic Kerala attire and feel part of the celebration
- Visit a local temple with the family, just like the locals do
- Help prepare and enjoy a traditional Onasadya feast
- Join in games like Vadam Vali, Uriyadi, and Oonjal
- Head to Thrissur to experience the excitement of Pulikali live
- Watch long snake boats race through Kerala’s backwaters, with cheering crowds all around
- Soak in the music, laughter, and warmth of a celebration you’ll never forget
You won’t just be watching the Onam Festival in Kerala — you’ll be living it.
📍 When & Where
🗓 Key Onam Events & Dates in 2025:
August 25, 2025 (Monday) – Vallamkali (Snake Boat Race)
📍 Aranmula, Pathanamthitta DistrictAugust 26, 2025 (Tuesday) – Athachamayam Procession
📍 Tripunithura, Ernakulam DistrictSeptember 5, 2025 (Friday) – Thiruvonam (Main Onam Day)
📍 Statewide, best experienced with a local family in Kochi or nearby townsSeptember 8, 2025 (Monday) – Pulikali (Tiger Dance Festival)
📍 Thrissur City
✨ Let’s Make It Happen
Ready to experience Kerala’s biggest celebration the way it’s meant to be?
Whether you’re a culture lover, foodie, photographer, or just curious to experience something real — our Onam Festival in Kerala Tour is designed just for you.
🎒 We’re keeping it intimate and immersive — only a few slots are open.
📞 Contact us now to reserve your place in Kerala’s grandest festival!