How to Celebrate Onam at a StayVista Villa in Kerala
Onam isn’t just a festival—it’s an emotion deeply rooted in Kerala’s cultural soul. Celebrated with unmatched enthusiasm across the state, Onam in Kerala marks the legendary homecoming of King Mahabali, a beloved ruler whose reign is remembered for prosperity, equality, and joy. Taking place in the lush Malayalam month of Chingam (August–September), Onam stretches across ten festive days, transforming the state into a living postcard of vibrant pookalams (floral rangolis), traditional dances, soulful music, and mouth-watering Onam sadhya feasts. Experiencing this vibrant tradition from the comfort of a beautifully curated villa in Kerala adds a layer of warmth and authenticity that’s hard to replicate.
From the aroma of freshly prepared dishes to the sounds of temple drums and the laughter of loved ones playing traditional games, Onam is when the everyday turns magical. Whether you’re a native Malayali or simply lucky enough to visit during this season, celebrating it in a scenic villa in Kerala makes it all the more unforgettable. With nature outside your window and traditions in your heart, Onam is best experienced where comfort meets culture—and that’s exactly what a StayVista home promises.
In this Blog
What Onam is and When it’s Celebrated
Onam is Kerala’s most vibrant and cherished festival, celebrated annually to honour the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali. Steeped in mythological and cultural significance, it marks the Malayalam New Year and the harvest season. This grand festival typically falls in the month of Chingam (August–September), i.e Tue, 26 Aug, 2025 to Fri, 5 Sept, 2025, with Thiruvonam, the most important day, observed on the 10th day.
The Onam festival spans 10 days, beginning with Atham and culminating in Thiruvonam. Each day is steeped in tradition—from floral carpets known as Pookalam, temple visits, and grand feasts called Onam Sadhya, to spectacular events like the Snake Boat Race. It’s a beautiful blend of devotion, celebration, and Kerala’s rich heritage.
The Ten Days of Onam: A Festival of Culture, Rituals and Joy
The Onam festival is a ten-day cultural extravaganza that beautifully weaves together Kerala’s heritage, mythology, and community spirit. Each day is marked by distinct rituals, vibrant traditions, and joyful gatherings that reflect the values of togetherness and gratitude.
- Day 1: Atham – The festival begins with a temple visit and the creation of a “Pookalam,” a floral design, marking the beginning of festivities. Thrippunithura hosts vibrant processions on this day.
- Day 2: Chithira – Homes are thoroughly cleaned to invite prosperity.
- Day 3: Chodhi – Shopping begins, particularly for new clothing and gifts.
- Day 4: Vishakam – One of the busiest days, as families begin preparing ingredients for the elaborate Onam Sadhya, a traditional meal of over 26 delicacies.
- Day 5: Anizham – The iconic Snake Boat Race, or Vallamkali, is held, a thrilling spectacle for locals and tourists alike.
- Day 6: Thriketa – Gifts are exchanged among family and friends.
- Day 7: Moolam – Families start visiting each other, spreading festive cheer.
- Day 8: Pooradam – Small statues of King Mahabali and Vamana are purchased and added to the household decorations.
- Day 9: Uthradam – The eve of Onam, families purchase fresh produce for the Onam Sadhya, and final cleaning is done.
- Day 10: Thiruvonam – The main day of celebration. Families wear new clothes, decorate entrances with rice flour, enjoy fireworks, and sit down to enjoy the grand Onam Sadhya.
Celebrate Onam in a StayVista Villa in Kerala For the Ultimate Experience
There’s no better way to celebrate Onam in Kerala than by gathering your loved ones in the comfort and luxury of a private villa in Kerala. StayVista’s The Forest Echoes in Wayanad is the perfect setting to experience this festive spirit. Surrounded by lush greenery and offering panoramic forest views, this charming villa in Kerala provides an authentic, serene backdrop for your Onam celebration.
Begin your day with a morning prayer on the veranda, followed by designing your own “Pookalam” using fresh flowers from nearby markets. Engage in traditional games like tug of war or play indoor board games with the family. You can also cook or arrange a chef to prepare a traditional Onam Sadhya in the villa’s well-equipped kitchen.
The expansive lawn is ideal for hosting a mini celebration complete with fireworks, music, and local treats. StayVista also offers services that can help arrange cultural experiences, like a live Kerala percussion performance or an Onam-themed decor setup. From dressing in traditional attire to clicking family portraits against the misty Wayanad backdrop, every moment becomes a cherished memory.
Why a StayVista Villa is Ideal for Onam
Whether you’re planning a family reunion or a quiet escape during Onam in Kerala, choosing a villa in Kerala like The Forest Echoes allows you to immerse yourself in the festival while enjoying all the comforts of a luxurious homestay. With spacious rooms, private gardens, and tranquil surroundings, these villas offer the perfect canvas to recreate Onam traditions at your own pace.
Unlike crowded hotels, a villa in Kerala offers privacy, space, and the freedom to celebrate your way. Enjoy the flexibility of planning your own activities or letting StayVista help you curate an authentic Onam itinerary.
Onam in a Stunning Villa in Kerala: Double the Celebration
As the fragrance of fresh flowers fills the air and the rhythm of drums echoes through the hills, celebrating Onam in Kerala at a StayVista villa becomes an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re watching the snake boat race on TV, sharing a lovingly-prepared sadhya meal, or simply enjoying the peaceful monsoon views from your balcony, it’s a celebration of togetherness and tradition.
So, this year, skip the crowded cities and discover the magic of homestays in Kerala. Let the comfort of a StayVista villa in Kerala amplify your celebrations. Browse our Onam offer packages, plan your Kerala trip, and celebrate like a local in one of the most beautiful Kerala tourist places. Plan out the best things to do in Kerala, and find your dream villa in Kerala to celebrate Onam like never before.
Banner image credits: via https://www.alphonsostories.com/
Also Read:
Monsoon Festivals in India: A Festival Guide to the Rainy Season
What Makes Kerala the Best Place to Visit in India in Monsoon
