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Onam

A harvest festival showcasing Kerala's culture

The harvest festival Onam, falls in the month of September and is Kerala’s most iconic annual celebration. Onam is celebrated in honour of King Mahabali, a mythological character who dwells in the netherworld, who visits his subjects each year – his reign once represented Kerala’s golden era. The festival is marked by grand feasts, indigenous dance and music, and the traditional snake-boat races – Kerala’s most unique event. The 10 day-celebrations showcase the best of Kerala’s traditions and rituals, and the folklore behind each custom offers a fascinating insight into the faith and beliefs of the region.

Activities from the Destination

Places of interest to weave into your itinerary

Harbour Cruise

A glimpse into Cochin's port economy
Home cooking experience

Partake a homely cooking lesson & meal
Kathakali Dance Performance

Discover the dance-drama storytelling tradition of South India
Kerala Folklore Theatre & Museum

Witness Kerala's splendid folklore traditions
Kochi-Muziris Biennale

Delve into one of India's most definitive art festivals
Mattanchery Palace & Spice Markets

Explore the Portuguese's gift to the Raja of Cochin
Secrets of Ayurveda

Delve into Ayurvedic knowledge
Visit to Chottanikkara Temple

Witness the ever-changing avatars of India's supreme goddesses

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