Onam Festival in 2025 in Kerala: What to Expect and How to Celebrate
There are countless reasons to visit Kerala, but if there’s one time the state truly comes alive, it’s during the Onam Festival. Celebrated with unmatched joy and splendour, Onam in Kerala is more than just a festival but a ten-day cultural spectacular that brings families, communities, and travellers together. Recognised as the state festival and marking both the Malayalam New Year and a grand harvest celebration, Onam offers a glimpse into Kerala’s heart and heritage. Wondering when is Onam 2025? Or what makes this festival so deeply special to locals and visitors alike? From floral carpets to feasts, here’s why the importance of Onam festival goes far beyond tradition and why you need to witness it for yourself.
In this Blog
What is Onam?
Ask anyone from Kerala what Onam means to them, and chances are, they’ll get a little dreamy-eyed. For some, it’s the smell of fresh jasmine in their hair. For others, it’s the excitement of laying out the pookkalam (floral carpet) before sunrise with cousins who came home just for the holidays. For most of Kerala, Onam is more of a feeling than a festival. Celebrated across religions and generations, the Onam Festival brings families together with rituals, music, dance, and above all, food. It’s where a banana leaf becomes the plate, and on it, 26 beautifully prepared dishes arrive in a specific, time-honoured order. It’s simply amazing and one of the tastiest ways to experience the importance of Onam festival.
And even if you didn’t grow up with it, experiencing Onam in Kerala will leave you with stories of your own, and a heart just a little fuller with every bowl of payasam.
The Legend Behind the Celebration
Long ago, it’s believed that Kerala was ruled by a kind and just king named Mahabali. His reign was a time of peace, equality, and prosperity and that period was often described as a golden era. But as his popularity grew, the gods grew uneasy. To restore balance, Lord Vishnu took the form of Vamana and sent Mahabali to the netherworld.
Before leaving, the king asked for one wish which was to return once a year and see his people. That annual visit is what Onam celebrates – not just the homecoming of a beloved ruler, but the values he stood for.
Every flower carpet, temple drum, and family feast is a tribute to that timeless legend and a reminder of Kerala’s deep-rooted love for its cultural heritage.
When is Onam 2025?
The dates of Onam change each year as they follow the Malayalam calendar, with celebrations usually falling in August or September. The Onam Festival in 2025 will be celebrated from 26th August to 5th September. And if you’re wondering when is Onam 2025 the most vibrant then mark Thiruvonam on your calendar, the main day of celebration, when everything comes to life.
Shops bustle, houses sparkle, and there’s a certain scent in the air of incense, flowers, and fried banana chips. Everyone’s either preparing a feast, buying new clothes, or catching the last episode of that hilarious Onam-themed TV skit aired every year. It’s the best kind of chaos.
Why You Should Travel During Onam in Kerala
There’s something magical about being in Kerala during Onam, it’s like watching the soul of the state unfold in front of you. From the rhythm of the Pulikali (tiger dance) to the grace of Kathakali, from the competitive thrill of Vallam Kali (snake boat races) to the indulgence of the Onam Sadya, every moment is steeped in culture and celebration. Travelling during Onam in Kerala is an experience. An invitation to be part of age-old traditions, to witness the importance of Onam festival first-hand, and to carry home not just photos, but memories steeped in colour, flavour, and emotion.
How is Onam Celebrated?
There are numerous celebrations and rituals that unfold over the Onam season, many with charming regional variations. But here’s a look at the traditions that are cherished across Kerala, and some of the most beautiful reasons to experience Onam Festival 2025 in person.
Pookkalam
Every morning, vibrant flower petals are arranged into intricate floral carpets at the entrance of homes. With each passing day, the designs become more elaborate, almost like a countdown to the grand day of Thiruvonam. Marigolds, jasmine, hibiscus – the fragrance alone is enough to lift your spirits. The pookkalam isn’t just decorative, it’s a heartfelt welcome for King Mahabali and a symbol of joy, prosperity, and unity during Onam in Kerala.
Onam Sadya
The Onam Sadya is a ceremonial affair. Served on a fresh banana leaf, this vegetarian feast features up to 26 lovingly prepared dishes, each placed in a specific spot and enjoyed in a particular order. From tangy sambar and creamy olan to crispy banana chips and multiple kinds of payasam, every bite is a celebration of Kerala’s rich culinary heritage. It’s one of the most anticipated traditions and beautifully reflects the importance of Onam festival.
Vallam Kali
Long, sleek boats race across Kerala’s glistening backwaters, rowed by dozens of oarsmen moving in perfect harmony to the beat of traditional songs. Known as Vallam Kali, this spectacular event is a crowd-puller, especially in places like Alleppey and Aranmula. The excitement in the air, the cheering crowds, and the sheer athleticism on display make it a must-see during Onam Festival 2025.
Pulikali
In the bustling town of Thrissur, men paint themselves as tigers in vivid yellows, oranges, and blacks, and take to the streets dancing to the rhythm of live percussion. This quirky and energetic street performance, known as Pulikali, is one of the most entertaining parts of Onam in Kerala, especially for visitors seeing it for the first time.
Cultural Performances and Temple Rituals
From classical Kathakali performances telling ancient epics to the graceful sway of Thiruvathirakali danced in circles by women in traditional kasavu sarees, culture takes centre stage during Onam. Temples are beautifully decorated, lamps are lit, and devotional songs echo through the air, adding a spiritual depth to the festivities.
A Celebration that Connects Everyone
Perhaps the most heartwarming part of Onam is the way it brings people together. Whether you’re in a tiny village or a buzzing city, the spirit is the same — homes are scrubbed clean, elders retell stories, new clothes are gifted, and neighbours drop by with sweets. Even if you arrive as a visitor, you’ll be welcomed like family. That’s the true importance of Onam festival — a celebration of harmony, heritage, and human connection.
Where to Stay During Onam in Kerala
Visiting the state during this time, witnessing the rituals, tasting the feast, and being part of the celebrations is a travel experience like no other. If you’re planning a trip during Onam Festival 2025, be sure to book your stay in advance as the whole state is in holiday mode and accommodations fill up fast. From charming backwater villas and heritage bungalows to cosy family-run homestays tucked into the hills, there’s a wide range of places that let you soak in the local culture and hospitality.
The Stone Villa
Villa Marina – By The Sea
Regal Retreat
Novera
Orchid Haven
Onam in Kerala is a celebration like no other – full of colour, culture, and community. If you’re planning a trip for Onam Festival 2025, it’s the perfect time to experience the state at its festive best. From the food to the traditions, everything about Onam will leave you with memories to cherish.
Image Credit: P.L. Tandon via Flickr
