Onam, the harvest festival of Kerala, is celebrated with grand enthusiasm and is a time when the state comes alive with colours, cultural festivities, and an unparalleled spirit of unity. The festival, which lasts for ten days, marks the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali and is celebrated with various rituals, traditional feasts (Onam Sadhya), and vibrant cultural programs. Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” offers a plethora of destinations where the true essence of Onam can be experienced. If you’re planning to visit Kerala during this auspicious time, here’s a guide to the best places you should consider.

Must-Visit Places in Kerala for Onam Celebrations

Below is a list of places to celebrate onam in Kerala.

1. Thiruvananthapuram

The capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, is one of the best places to experience Onam celebrations. The city hosts a variety of cultural events, including the famous Onam Week celebrations, where you can witness traditional art forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Kalaripayattu. The streets are adorned with Pookkalam (floral rangolis), and every household partakes in the grand feast, Onam Sadhya, served on banana leaves.

• Key Attractions:
  • Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Participate in special Onam prayers.
  • Kuthiramalika Palace: Witness cultural performances during the Onam week.
  • Kovalam Beach: Enjoy the serene beach vibes and local celebrations.

2. Kochi

Kochi, the Queen of the Arabian Sea, offers a perfect mix of traditional Onam celebrations and modern festivities. The city is known for its vibrant Pookkalam competitions and Onam feasts in hotels and restaurants that serve traditional Kerala cuisine. The Onam pageants, featuring decorated elephants, folk dances, and floats, are a must-see.

• Key Attractions:
  • Fort Kochi: Explore the historic sites and witness cultural performances.
  • Marine Drive: Enjoy a peaceful evening walk and savor street food.
  • Bolgatty Palace: Attend Onam cultural events and special feasts.

3. Alleppey

Alleppey, or Alappuzha, is famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises, but during Onam, it becomes even more magical. The most significant event during Onam in Alleppey is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, which is held in the Punnamada Lake. This race features the traditional snake boats (Chundan Vallams) and is a spectacle of unity and teamwork.

• Key Attractions:
  • Backwater Cruises: Experience Onam celebrations on a houseboat.
  • Nehru Trophy Boat Race: Witness the thrilling boat race and the festive fervor.
  • Pathiramanal Island: A serene spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

4. Thrissur

Thrissur is often referred to as the cultural capital of Kerala, and it truly lives up to this title during Onam. The city is known for its elaborate Onam festivities, including Pulikali (Tiger Dance) and Kummatti Kali, both of which are traditional folk dances. Thrissur also hosts grand feasts and various cultural programs, making it an ideal destination to soak in the true spirit of Onam.

• Key Attractions:
  • Vadakkunnathan Temple: Participate in traditional Onam prayers and rituals.
  • Swaraj Round: Witness Pulikali performances and the grand procession.
  • Athirappilly Waterfalls: A short drive from Thrissur, perfect for a day trip.

5. Kollam

Kollam, with its serene backwaters and picturesque beaches, offers a peaceful yet vibrant Onam experience. The district is known for its traditional Onam celebrations, including boat races, cultural performances, and grand feasts. The Ashtamudi Lake, one of the largest backwaters in Kerala, is a popular spot for tourists during Onam.

• Key Attractions:
  • Ashtamudi Lake: Enjoy a houseboat cruise and witness local Onam festivities.
  • Thangassery Lighthouse: A historical site offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
  • Kollam Beach: Relax and participate in beachside celebrations.

6. Kannur

Kannur, in the northern part of Kerala, is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional Onam celebrations. The district is famous for its Theyyam performances, a traditional ritualistic dance form, which is often showcased during Onam. Kannur also hosts various Pookkalam competitions, cultural programs, and traditional feasts.

• Key Attractions:
  • Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach: Experience the thrill of driving on the beach.
  • St. Angelo Fort: Explore the historic fort and enjoy the scenic views.
  • Arakkal Museum: Learn about the history and culture of the region.

7. Kumarakom

Kumarakom, located near Kottayam, is a serene backwater destination that offers a peaceful and traditional Onam experience. The village is famous for its bird sanctuary and houseboat cruises on Vembanad Lake. During Onam, the local communities come together to celebrate with grand feasts, boat races, and cultural performances.

• Key Attractions:
  • Vembanad Lake: Enjoy a houseboat cruise and traditional Onam festivities.
  • Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: A haven for bird watchers and nature lovers.
  • Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls: A scenic spot perfect for a day trip.

8. Palakkad

Palakkad, known for its vast paddy fields and traditional villages, offers a unique and authentic Onam experience. The district is famous for its traditional celebrations, including Valluvanad and the ancient art forms performed during Onam. The Palakkad Fort and the surrounding areas are beautifully decorated with Pookkalam, and the locals partake in grand feasts and cultural programs.

• Key Attractions:
  • Palakkad Fort: Explore the historic fort and witness cultural performances.
  • Silent Valley National Park: A perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
  • Malampuzha Dam and Gardens: Enjoy a peaceful day amidst nature and participate in local festivities.

9. Wayanad

Wayanad, with its lush green landscapes and cool climate, is an ideal destination to celebrate Onam away from the bustling cities. The hill station is known for its traditional celebrations, including cultural performances, Pookkalam competitions, and grand feasts. Wayanad’s natural beauty, combined with the festive spirit of Onam, makes it a perfect getaway.

• Key Attractions:
  • Edakkal Caves: Explore the ancient caves and the surrounding scenic beauty.
  • Chembra Peak: Trek to the heart-shaped lake at the top of the peak.
  • Banasura Sagar Dam: Enjoy boating and participate in local Onam festivities.

10. Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta, often referred to as the spiritual hub of Kerala, is known for its traditional Onam celebrations. The district is home to various temples, where special prayers and rituals are performed during Onam. The Aranmula Boat Race, held on the Pampa River, is a significant event during the Onam festival and attracts tourists from all over the world.

• Key Attractions:
  • Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple: Participate in the special Onam prayers and rituals.
  • Aranmula Boat Race: Witness the thrilling boat race and the festive atmosphere.
  • Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls: A serene spot perfect for a day trip.

11. Munnar: The Green Paradise

Munnar, the picturesque hill station in the Western Ghats, is a perfect destination to celebrate Onam amidst nature. The cool climate, tea gardens, and scenic landscapes make it an ideal getaway for those looking to experience a peaceful Onam. Munnar’s local communities celebrate Onam with traditional feasts, cultural performances, and Pookkalam competitions.

• Key Attractions:
  • Tea Gardens: Explore the lush green tea gardens and learn about tea processing.
  • Eravikulam National Park: Spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy the scenic beauty.
  • Mattupetty Dam: Enjoy boating and participate in local Onam festivities.

12. Aluva: A Blend of Tradition and Nature

Aluva, located near Kochi, is known for its serene environment and traditional Onam celebrations. The town is famous for the Aluva Sivarathri festival, and during Onam, it becomes a hub of cultural activities. The Periyar River, which flows through Aluva, adds to the charm of the town and offers a picturesque setting for Onam celebrations.

• Key Attractions:
  • Periyar River: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride and witness local Onam celebrations.
  • Aluva Palace: Explore the historic palace and participate in cultural programs.
  • Kalady: Visit the birthplace of Adi Shankaracharya and explore the temples.

13. Guruvayur: The Divine Destination

Guruvayur, known for the famous Guruvayur Temple, is a spiritual destination that offers a unique Onam experience. The town is deeply rooted in tradition, and the Onam celebrations here are marked by special prayers, rituals, and cultural programs. Guruvayur also hosts traditional feasts, where devotees partake in the grand Onam Sadhya.

• Key Attractions:
  • Guruvayur Temple: Participate in special Onam prayers and rituals.
  • Mammiyoor Temple: Explore the nearby temple and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
  • Punnathur Kotta: Visit the elephant sanctuary and witness the majestic animals.

14. Varkala: The Cliffside Beach Town

Varkala, known for its stunning cliffs and pristine beaches, offers a unique Onam celebration by the sea. The town is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and during Onam, it becomes a hub of cultural activities. Varkala’s beaches are adorned with Pookkalam, and the local communities celebrate with traditional feasts and performances.

• Key Attractions:
  • Varkala Beach: Relax on the beach and participate in local Onam festivities.
  • Sivagiri Mutt: Visit the ashram and explore the spiritual side of Varkala.
  • Janardana Swami Temple: Participate in special Onam prayers and rituals.

Conclusion

Kerala, with its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, is the perfect destination to celebrate Onam. Whether you’re looking for traditional festivities, serene backwaters, or scenic hill stations, Kerala has something to offer for everyone. Each region in Kerala celebrates Onam in its unique way, making the festival a truly special experience. So, pack your bags and head to Kerala this Onam to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, mouth-watering cuisine, and warm hospitality of God’s Own Country.  So, what are you waiting for? Book your Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Alleppey, Thrissur bus tickets on redBus now!