Dear Lykkers! Picture this: a 10-day-long party where everyone’s invited, the streets are bursting with color, the aroma of delicious food fills the air, and there’s a surprise around every corner.
Welcome to Onam—the festival that turns the entire state of Kerala into a massive carnival!
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or just someone looking for a unique experience, Onam has something for everyone.
Pookkalam Competitions: A Floral Showdown
One of the first things you'll notice during Onam is the colorful Pookkalam, intricate floral carpets created outside homes and public spaces. These flower arrangements are a work of art, with each day of the festival bringing more elaborate designs. Entire communities come together for friendly Pookkalam competitions, showcasing their creativity and winning bragging rights for the most stunning design. Visitors can join in by helping to place flowers and enjoy the lively, communal atmosphere.
Thrilling Activities: Snake Boat Races and Tiger Dances
Onam isn't just about flowers and food—it’s packed with thrilling activities that capture the spirit of Kerala. The Vallam Kali or Snake Boat Races are a must-see! Teams of rowers in long, sleek boats race down Kerala’s backwaters, cheered on by thousands of spectators. It’s a high-energy spectacle where you can pick a team and join in the cheers.
Then, there’s the electrifying Pulikali, or Tiger Dance, where performers painted as tigers prance and dance to drumbeats, creating a festive atmosphere that invites everyone to join the fun. Onam also features unique games like the tug-of-war and Uriyadi (pot-breaking), adding a playful twist to the festivities.
Grand Parades and Fireworks
The festival culminates in the grand parade, Atha Chamayam, which includes decorated elephants, folk dancers, musicians, and stunning floats depicting mythological tales. As the sun sets, fireworks light up the skies, adding a magical sparkle to the celebrations and reflecting over the serene backwaters, providing a perfect end to each day of the festival.
The Onam Sadhya: A Feast to Remember
Onam is synonymous with the Onam Sadhya, a massive vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. This traditional meal includes over 26 dishes, each bursting with unique flavors and textures. From tangy sambar to the creamy avial, the sweet and sour inji puli to the decadent payasam, each dish tells a story of Kerala’s rich culinary heritage. It’s an unforgettable gastronomic journey where you taste everything from crispy banana chips to savory curries, all in one sitting!
Joining the Feast: Where to Find the Best Sadhya
You can enjoy the Onam Sadhya in multiple ways. Visit local restaurants like Dal Roti in Kochi or Mothers Veg Plaza in Thiruvananthapuram, where prices range from INR 300 to 1000. Alternatively, experience the festival like a local by attending community feasts organized by temples and cultural centers, where anyone can join for free or a small donation. If you’re lucky enough to befriend a local, you might even receive an invitation to a family’s home for a home-cooked Sadhya!
Onam Food Trails and Cooking Adventures
For a deeper dive into Kerala’s culinary delights, consider exploring local markets like the Broadway Market in Kochi or the Chalai Market in Thiruvananthapuram. These bustling markets offer fresh spices, vegetables, and snacks like Vada, Bajji, and Banana Fritters. You can also participate in local cooking classes to learn how to make your own Onam Sadhya and take these delicious recipes home.
Payasam: The Sweet Finale
No Onam celebration is complete without a generous serving of Payasam, Kerala's favorite dessert. From the classic Ada Pradhaman made with rice flakes and jaggery to the creamy Paal Payasam, this sweet treat is served at the end of every feast. Look out for it in restaurants, community feasts, or even cooking workshops.
Onam isn’t just a festival; it’s a celebration of Kerala’s rich culture, traditions, and hospitality. With its spectacular parades, thrilling boat races, colorful flower arrangements, and mouth-watering feasts, Onam offers a unique blend of fun, excitement, and warmth. No matter you’re dancing with tigers, cheering for your favorite boat, or relishing the flavors of a traditional Sadhya, this festival promises a memorable experience filled with joy and togetherness.
