7 Most Popular Temple Festivals in Kerala

7 Most Popular Temple Festivals in Kerala

Neha Mewari | May 27, 2025

Kerala’s temple festivals are a vibrant mix of dance, music, elephants, and rituals—perfect for your cultural bucket list!

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1. Alpasi Utsavam: Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Celebrated in Thiruvananthapuram, it features Pallivetta ritual and Arattu sea bath procession led by Travancore royals.

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2. Vaikom Ashtami Festival

At Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, grand dance, Kathakali, and a colorful elephant procession mark the Shiva festival’s highlight.

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3. Chettikulangara Kettukazhcha

A stunning visual feast of giant temple cars, chariots, and mythological icons paraded with music and fireworks at Chettikulangara.

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4. Guruvayur Aanayottam

The famous elephant race kicks off the 10-day Guruvayur festival with processions, rituals, and grand feasts for devotees.

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5. Attukal Pongala

Guinness-record gathering of women offering Pongala—a sweet rice dish to Goddess Attukal Devi in Thiruvananthapuram.

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6. Nenmara Vallanghy Vela

A lively post-harvest festival in Palakkad with fireworks, Panchavadyam orchestra, and two villages competing with elephant processions.

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7. Thrissur Pooram

Witness 30 decorated elephants, powerful drum orchestras, and vibrant umbrella dances in this iconic Thrissur celebration.

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Next: 6 Must-Visit UNESCO World Heritage Temples in South India
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