Witness the Grand Athachamayam Procession
Onam officially kicks off with the Athachamayam, a spectacular cultural parade held in the royal town of Thripunithura, near Kochi. This event marks the start of the ten-day festival and commemorates the erstwhile Maharaja of Kochi's legendary march.
The streets come alive with a vibrant procession featuring caparisoned elephants, colourful floats depicting mythological and historical scenes, and dozens of traditional folk art performances. You can witness everything from Kathakali and Mohiniyattam dancers to percussion ensembles like Pandimelam and Chendamelam. It’s a photographer’s delight and the perfect immersion into the sheer diversity of Kerala’s performing arts, all in one place. Arriving early is key to securing a good vantage point for this dazzling inauguration of the festive season.
Marvel at Intricate Pookalams
One of the most defining sights of Onam is the Pookalam, an intricate floral carpet laid out at the entrance of homes, offices, and temples. These beautiful designs are created to welcome the spirit of the beloved King Mahabali, whose annual return Onam celebrates. The creation of a Pookalam is a daily ritual during the ten days of the festival, starting small on the first day and growing larger and more elaborate with each passing day. While you will spot them everywhere, several towns and organizations host Pookalam competitions, where you can see stunningly complex and creative designs. These events showcase incredible artistry and teamwork, with participants using only natural flowers and leaves to craft their masterpieces.
Indulge in a Traditional Onam Sadya
No Onam experience is complete without partaking in the Onam Sadya, a magnificent vegetarian feast that is the culinary centerpiece of the festival. Served on a fresh banana leaf, a Sadya can feature anywhere from 20 to over 30 different dishes, each with its own specific place on the leaf. The meal is a carefully balanced symphony of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavours. Key dishes include staples like rice, sambar, and avial (a mixed vegetable curry with coconut), alongside smaller portions of pickles, chips, and various vegetable preparations called thoran. The feast traditionally concludes with one or more varieties of payasam, a rich and sweet dessert. Many local restaurants and hotels across Kerala offer authentic Sadya experiences, giving visitors a delicious taste of tradition.
Feel the Thrill of Vallam Kali
Vallam Kali, the traditional snake boat race, is one of Kerala's most electrifying spectacles. During the Onam season, the state's serene backwaters turn into roaring racetracks. The stars of the show are the chundan vallams, or snake boats, which are over 100 feet long and powered by up to 150 rowers, a helmsman, and singers who chant traditional boat songs (vanchipattu) to keep the rhythm. The sight and sound of these massive boats slicing through the water in perfect synchrony is an unforgettable experience. While several races take place, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Alappuzha is one of the most prestigious, with the 2026 edition scheduled for August 22nd. It’s a powerful display of teamwork, community pride, and centuries-old tradition.
Enjoy Graceful Kaikottikali Performances
Among the many cultural performances that flourish during Onam, Kaikottikali (also known as Thiruvathirakali) is one of the most elegant. This traditional group dance is performed exclusively by women, who dress in beautiful off-white and gold Kerala sarees, their hair adorned with jasmine flowers. The dancers move in a circle around a ceremonial brass lamp (nilavilakku), singing songs and clapping their hands in a gentle, rhythmic pattern. The songs often narrate stories from Hindu epics or praise King Mahabali. This graceful and synchronized dance form is a common sight during Onam gatherings and cultural programs, embodying the spirit of community and celebration. It’s a serene and beautiful performance that captures the gentler side of the festive spirit.
