New Delhi: Onam is almost here, and for many Malayali households, the celebrations begin at the doorstep with the colourful pookalam. Made with fresh flowers
and petals, this traditional floral carpet is more than festive décor – it is associated with welcoming King Mahabali and represents the joy, prosperity and togetherness of Onam. With Thiruvonam falling on August 26, 2026, beginners still have plenty of inspiration to create a beautiful pookalam without attempting an elaborate competition-style design.
Easy Pookalam designs for Onam 2026
1. Classic Floral Circle
A classic circular pookalam featuring bright yellow marigolds, white petals, orange flowers and a red centre. Its clean, colourful appearance makes it an elegant choice for beginners celebrating Onam at home.
2. Lotus-Inspired Pookalam
A graceful lotus-inspired design with layered pink and red petals, surrounded by white and yellow flowers. The symmetrical floral pattern creates a traditional yet sophisticated festive appearance.
3. Sunburst Pookalam
A cheerful sunburst pookalam featuring alternating yellow, orange and white sections radiating from a vibrant centre. Its bright colours and balanced symmetry give the design a lively Onam feel.
4. Rainbow Pookalam
A colourful rainbow-inspired pookalam combining red, orange, yellow, pink, white and purple flowers. The cheerful palette creates a youthful, festive design that instantly brightens any home’s entrance.
5. Star-Shaped Pookalam
A striking star-shaped floral carpet surrounded by colourful circular borders. Yellow, orange, white and red petals create strong contrast, giving this simple design a festive appearance without looking overly complicated.
6. White-and-Yellow Pookalam
A minimal white-and-yellow pookalam offering a fresh, elegant appearance. Soft white petals contrast beautifully with golden-yellow flowers, creating a traditional floral carpet that feels understated, bright and welcoming.
7. Floral Mandala Pookalam
A colourful floral mandala featuring a vivid central motif, surrounded by repeating petal patterns and contrasting flower rings. The symmetrical design looks artistic while remaining approachable for first-time pookalam makers.
8. Traditional Kerala-Inspired Pookalam
A vibrant Kerala-inspired pookalam combining familiar flowers such as marigold, hibiscus and butterfly pea in rich festive shades. Its colourful floral arrangement celebrates the traditional character and beauty of Onam.
Pookalams traditionally use fresh flowers and petals, with commonly mentioned varieties including thumba, chethi, hibiscus, butterfly pea, marigold and mukuthi. Kerala Tourism notes that contemporary pookalams may also feature flowers sourced from outside Kerala.
