Kerala, often called ‘God’s Own Country’, is renowned for its vibrant festivals that reflect the state’s rich cultural heritage. These celebrations, rooted in history, religion, and art, attract travelers from across the world. Whether you’re looking to witness grand temple processions, indulge in culinary feasts, or experience mesmerizing dance performances, Kerala’s festivals offer it all.
Below is a detailed travel guide to the top 12 festivals of Kerala in 2025, including their time, location, how to reach, how to participate, stay options, and the best local food to try.
1. Theyyam 🔥🎭
Time of the Festival
📅 November 2024 – May 2025 (Multiple dates in different temples across North Kerala)
Location of the Festival
📍 Kannur & Kasaragod Districts (Prominent temples: Parassinikadavu, Kandanar Kelan, and Thaliparamba)
How to Reach the Festival Location?
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Kannur International Airport (25–50 km from major Theyyam locations) |
| By Train | Kannur Railway Station (well-connected) |
| By Road | Private cabs, KSRTC buses from Kozhikode and Mangalore |
How to Participate in the Festival?
- Arrive early (before dawn) to witness the transformation of performers.
- Watch the mesmerizing rituals, fire dances, and spirit possession performances.
- Respect the religious significance; photography may be restricted in some areas.
- Check temple schedules as Theyyam performances occur at different temples on different days.
Where to Stay during the Festival?
| Location | Recommended Stay | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Kannur | Seashell Beach Resort | ₹4,500+ |
| Kasaragod | Malabar Oceanfront Resort | ₹5,000+ |
| Budget Stays | Homestays & Lodges | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 |
Where & What to Eat during the Festival?
- Must-Try Dishes: Thalassery Biryani, Kallummakaya (Mussels Fry), Meen Curry (Fish Curry)
- Best Places to Eat: MVK Restaurant, Sahib’s Grill Kitchen, Odhens
2. Makaravilakku Festival 🔥
Time of the Festival
📅 January 14, 2025 (Makar Sankranti Day)
Location of the Festival
📍 Sabarimala Temple, Pathanamthitta District, Kerala
The Makaravilakku Festival at Sabarimala Temple is one of the most significant Hindu pilgrimages in South India. It marks the sighting of the celestial flame (Makaravilakku) on Ponnambalamedu hill, believed to be a divine manifestation of Lord Ayyappa.
How to Reach the Festival Location?
| Mode of Transport | Recommended Route |
|---|---|
| By Air | Trivandrum International Airport (170 km) or Cochin International Airport (160 km)(40 km from Fort Kochi) |
| By Train | Chengannur Railway Station (90 km from Sabarimala)(15 km from Fort Kochi) |
| By Road | KSRTC & private buses available to Pamba (5 km from the trekking base) |
How to Participate in the Festival?
- Undertake the 41-day Vratham (austerity period) before visiting Sabarimala.
- Join thousands of pilgrims trekking through dense forests to reach the temple.
- Witness the ‘Makaravilakku’ divine flame at Ponnambalamedu Hill after the Deeparadhana (evening prayer).
- Seek blessings at the Sabarimala Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.
Where to Stay during the Festival?
| Stay Option | Price Range (Per Night) |
|---|---|
| KTDC Periyar House, Thekkady | ₹4,500+ |
| Budget Hotels & Lodges in Pamba | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 |
| Home Stays & Ashrams | ₹500 – ₹1,500 |
Where & What to Eat during the Festival?
- Best Eateries: Local eateries in Pamba, Pathanamthitta, and Erumeli.
- Must-Try Dishes: Kanji (Rice Porridge), Kootu Curry, Banana Chips, Unniyappam.
The Makaravilakku Festival is a deeply spiritual experience, attracting millions of devotees who seek Lord Ayyappa’s blessings.
3. Utsavam Kerala 🎶
Time of the Festival
📅 January – February 2025
Location of the Festival
📍 Statewide (Major performances in Trivandrum, Kochi, Thrissur, and Kannur)
The Utsavam Kerala Festival is a statewide cultural festival organized by the Kerala Tourism Department, promoting traditional performing arts like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Kalaripayattu.
How to Participate in the Festival?
- Witness live performances at temples, heritage sites, and open-air auditoriums.
- Experience martial arts displays, folk theater, and classical dance.
- Attend music concerts, percussion performances, and temple rituals.
Where & What to Eat during the Festival?
- Must-Try: Sadya, Appam & Stew, Puttu & Kadala Curry, Pazham Pori.
4. Malabar Mahotsavam 🎭
Time of the Festival
📅 February 2025 (Exact Dates to be Announced)
Location of the Festival
📍 Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala
The Malabar Mahotsavam is a five-day cultural extravaganza held at Mananchira Square in Kozhikode. The festival showcases traditional dance, music, and theatrical performances from Kerala’s rich heritage.
How to Reach the Festival Location?
| Mode of Transport | Recommended Route |
|---|---|
| By Air | Calicut International Airport (30 km from city center)(170 km) or Cochin International Airport (160 km)(40 km from Fort Kochi) |
| By Train | Kozhikode Railway Station (2 km from Mananchira Square) |
| By Road | KSRTC & private buses connect Kozhikode with all major Kerala cities |
How to Participate in the Festival?
- Watch Kathakali, Theyyam, Mohiniyattam, and Thullal performances.
- Enjoy folk music concerts, drama performances, and poetry recitals.
- Attend handicraft and food exhibitions featuring Kerala’s rich flavors.
Where to Stay during the Festival?
| Stay Option | Price Range (Per Night) |
|---|---|
| The Raviz Kadavu | ₹6,000+ |
| Hotel Marina Residency | ₹3,500+ |
| Budget Homestays & Lodges | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 |
Where & What to Eat during the Festival?
- Best Eateries: Paragon Restaurant, Zains, Bombay Hotel
- Must-Try Dishes: Malabar Biryani, Mutton Curry, Pathiri, Chatti Pathiri
The Malabar Mahotsavam is a cultural paradise, offering a blend of Kerala’s performing arts, music, and culinary excellence.
5. Attukal Pongala 🔥🍲
Time of the Festival
📅 March 2025 (Exact date to be confirmed based on Malayalam calendar)
Location of the Festival
📍 Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Trivandrum
How to Reach the Festival Location?
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Trivandrum International Airport (6 km from the temple) |
| By Train | Trivandrum Central Railway Station (2.5 km from temple) |
| By Road | KSRTC buses and autos easily available |
How to Participate in the Festival?
- Only women are allowed to participate in preparing Pongala (a sweet rice dish) on the streets.
- Arrive early in the morning to secure a cooking spot near the temple.
- Carry essential ingredients (rice, jaggery, coconut) or buy from local vendors.
- After the ritual, receive prasadam (holy offering) from the temple.
Where to Stay during the Festival?
| Stay Option | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Hilton Garden Inn | ₹6,000+ |
| Keys Select Hotel | ₹4,000+ |
| Budget Homestays | ₹1,500 – ₹3,500 |
Where & What to Eat during the Festival?
- Must-Try: Pongala Prasadam, Kerala-style Banana Chips, Jackfruit Halwa
- Best Eateries: Indian Coffee House, Mothers Veg Plaza
6. Vishu 🎇🌿
Time of the Festival
📅 Date: April 14, 2025
Location of the Festival
📍 Statewide (Best celebrations in Trivandrum, Guruvayur, and Kochi)
How to Reach the Festival Location?
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Trivandrum International Airport, Cochin International Airport |
| By Train | Well-connected to all major Kerala towns (Trivandrum, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Guruvayur) |
| By Road | Kerala State Transport (KSRTC) and private cabs available |
How to Participate in the Festival?
- Witness Vishu Kani (auspicious arrangement of items like fruits, flowers, gold, and mirror) at temples and homes.
- Attend the grand Vishu Sadya (feast) at temples and restaurants.
- Watch the fireworks displays at major temples in Kerala.
- Participate in the tradition of Vishu Kaineettam, where elders gift money to younger members.
Where to Stay during the Festival?
| City | Recommended Stay | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Trivandrum | Vivanta by Taj | ₹7,000+ |
| Guruvayur | Krishna Inn | ₹3,000+ |
| Kochi | Grand Hyatt | ₹6,500+ |
Where & What to Eat during the Festival?
- Best Eateries: Zam Zam, Mothers Veg Plaza, BTH Sarovaram
- Must-Try Dishes: Vishu Sadya (includes Avial, Erissery, Payasam, and more)
7. Eid Celebrations 🕌🌙
Time of the Festival
📅 April 2025 (Exact Date Based on Lunar Calendar)
Location of the Festival
📍 Across Kerala (Best in Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kannur, and Kochi)
Eid is a grand celebration in Kerala, marked by special prayers, feasts, and cultural events.
How to Participate in the Festival?
- Visit mosques for the grand Eid prayers.
- Experience community feasts with traditional Muslim delicacies.
Where & What to Eat during the Festival?
- Best Dishes: Malabar Biryani, Kozhi Ada, Thalassery Halwa, Pathiri & Mutton Curry.
📌 Pro Tip:
- Book accommodations early, especially for major festivals like Thrissur Pooram, Onam, and Theyyam.
- Dress modestly and follow local customs when attending temple festivals.
- Try local festival foods, as they are a unique part of the celebrations.
🔹 Which festival excites you the most? Plan your Kerala trip today! 🎉
8. Thrissur Pooram 🎉🐘
Time of the Festival
📅 Date: May 11, 2025
Location of the Festival
📍 Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur
How to Reach the Festival Location?
| Mode of Transport | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Cochin International Airport (55 km from Thrissur) |
| By Train | Thrissur Railway Station (Well-connected across India) |
| By Road | KSRTC & private buses available from major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum & Bangalore |
How to Participate in the Festival?
- Reach early to grab the best viewing spots near Vadakkunnathan Temple.
- Witness the grand elephant procession, fireworks, and percussion performances.
- Join the locals in Kudamattam (umbrella exchange ceremony).
Where to Stay during the Festival?
| Stay Option | Price Range (Per Night) | Booking Sites |
|---|---|---|
| Joys Palace | ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 | Booking.com, MakeMyTrip |
| Hyatt Regency Thrissur | ₹6,500+ | Agoda, Expedia |
| Budget Stays (Hostels, Homestays) | ₹1,000 – ₹2,500 | Airbnb, OYO |
Where & What to Eat during the Festival?
- Best Eateries: Bharat Hotel, Indian Coffee House, Sree Radhakrishna Prasadam
- Must-Try Dishes: Puttu & Kadala Curry, Sadya, Neychoru & Kozhi Curry
9. Champakulam Boat Race 🚣
Time of the Festival
📅 July 2025 (Exact Date to be Announced)
Location of the Festival
📍 Champakulam, Alappuzha District, Kerala
The Champakulam Moolam Boat Race is the oldest Vallam Kali (Snake Boat Race) in Kerala, held on the Pamba River.
How to Participate in the Festival?
- Book tickets for a boat ride or VIP seating along the riverbanks.
- Watch the Chundan Vallams (Snake Boats) race in thrilling competitions.
- Join local festivities with music, folk performances, and cultural displays.
Where to Stay during the Festival?
| Stay Option | Price Range (Per Night) |
|---|---|
| Houseboats in Alappuzha | ₹8,000+ |
| Ramada by Wyndham Alleppey | ₹7,000+ |
| Budget Homestays | ₹1,500 – ₹3,500 |
Where & What to Eat during the Festival?
- Best Dishes: Karimeen Fry, Meen Curry, Kappa & Fish, Prawns Masala.
10. Nehru Trophy Boat Race 🚣🏆
Time of the Festival
📅 Date: August 9, 2025
Location of the Festival
📍 Punnamada Lake, Alappuzha
How to Reach the Festival Location?
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Cochin International Airport (85 km from Alappuzha) |
| By Train | Alappuzha Railway Station (5 km from race venue) |
| By Road | Regular buses from Kochi, Trivandrum, and Kottayam |
How to Participate in the Festival?
- Buy tickets in advance for VIP stands or houseboat views.
- Cheer for the famous Chundan Vallams (snake boats).
Where to Stay during the Festival?
| Stay | Price |
|---|---|
| Houseboats | ₹7,000+ |
| Resorts near Lake | ₹4,000+ |
| Budget Hotels | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 |
Where & What to Eat during the Festival?
- Best Dishes: Karimeen Fry, Kerala Fish Curry, Toddy
- Top Restaurants: Halais, Thaff
11. Onam 🌸🎭
Time of the Festival
📅 Date: August 29 – September 8, 2025
Location of the Festival
📍 Statewide (Major celebrations in Trivandrum, Kochi, Thrissur, and Kottayam)
How to Reach the Festival Location?
- Nearest Airports: Trivandrum, Kochi, Calicut
- Well-connected via train & road transport across Kerala
How to Participate in the Festival?
- Watch Pulikali (Tiger Dance) in Thrissur.
- Attend Vallam Kali (Boat Race) in Alappuzha.
- Enjoy traditional Onam Sadya (feast) served on banana leaves.
Where to Stay during the Festival?
| Location | Stay Options | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Trivandrum | Taj Green Cove | ₹7,000+ |
| Kochi | Grand Hyatt | ₹6,500+ |
| Thrissur | Budget Homestays | ₹1,500 – ₹3,500 |
Where & What to Eat during the Festival?
- Must-Try: Onam Sadya – Avial, Olan, Kaalan, Payasam
- Best Places: Local temples, Kerala Houseboats, Grand Kerala Sadya restaurants
12. Cochin Carnival (Christmas & New Year Celebrations) 🎄🎆
Time of the Festival
📅 December 25, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Location of the Festival
📍 Fort Kochi, Kerala
How to Reach the Festival Location?
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Cochin International Airport (40 km from Fort Kochi) |
| By Train | Ernakulam Junction (15 km from Fort Kochi) |
| By Road | Buses and ferries from Ernakulam |
How to Participate in the Festival?
- Watch the grand street parade with decorated elephants, floats, and dancers.
- Join the Pappanji Burning Ceremony (symbolizing the end of the old year).
- Experience cultural performances, music concerts, and beach parties.
Where to Stay during the Festival?
| Stay Option | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Brunton Boatyard | ₹8,000+ |
| Old Harbour Hotel | ₹6,500+ |
| Budget Homestays | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 |
Where & What to Eat during the Festival?
- Must-Try Dishes: Kerala-style Christmas Cake, Meen Pollichathu, Appam & Stew
- Best Places to Eat: Kashi Art Café, Dal Roti, Oceanos
Final Thoughts
Kerala’s festivals are a grand spectacle of tradition, devotion, and celebration. If you’re planning to experience the true essence of Kerala’s culture, align your trip with these festivals for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
