Place

Highlights

Best Time to Visit

Nearest City

Munnar

Tea Plantations, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam

October-Mar ch

Kochi

Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Backwaters, Houseboats, Alappuzha Beach

October-Mar ch

Kochi

Kumarakom

Bird Sanctuary, Vembanad Lake, Luxury Resorts

October-Mar ch

Kottayam

Thekkady

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Spice Gardens, Boating

October-May

Kumily

Wayanad

Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Chembra Peak

October-May

Kozhikode

Kochi (Cochin)

Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Chinese Fishing Nets

October-Mar ch

Self

Thiruvananthapuram

Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kovalam Beach, Napier Museum

October-Feb ruary

Self

Varkala

Cliffside Beaches, Janardhana Swamy Temple, Ayurvedic Spas

October-Mar ch

Thiruvananthapura m

Athirapally

Athirapally Waterfalls, Vazhachal Waterfalls

September- March

Kochi

Bekal

Bekal Fort, Bekal Beach, Houseboats

October-Mar ch

Kasaragod

Kozhikode (Calicut)

Mananchira Square, Kozhikode Beach, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary

October-Mar ch

Self

Guruvayur

Guruvayur Temple, Elephant Camp

October-Mar ch

Thrissur

Thrissur

Thrissur Pooram Festival, Vadakkunnathan Temple

October-May

Self

Kannur

St. Angelo’s Fort, Muzhappilangad Drive-In Beach

October-May

Self

Kollam (Quilon)

Ashtamudi Lake, Punalur Hanging Bridge, Jatayu Earth’s Center

October-Mar ch

Thiruvananthapura m

Idukki

Idukki Dam, Hill View Park, Ramakkalmedu

October-May

Kochi

Poovar

Backwater Cruises, Floating Cottages, Golden Sand Beach

October-Mar ch

Thiruvananthapura m

Nelliampathy

Hill Station, Orange Plantations, Seetharkundu Viewpoint

October-May

Palakkad

Marari Beach

Pristine Beaches, Ayurvedic Resorts, Fishing Villages

October-Mar ch

Alappuzha

Alathur

Rural Village Life, Paddy Fields, Traditional Culture

October-May

Palakkad

Ponmudi

Hill Station, Trekking Trails, Golden Valley

October-Mar ch

Thiruvananthapura m

Agasthyakoodam

Trekking, Rare Flora and Fauna, Bird Watching

November-M ay

Thiruvananthapura m

Vythiri

Tree Houses, Wildlife, Wayanad Coffee Plantations

October-May

Wayanad

Pathanamthitta

Sabarimala Temple, Aranmula Boat Race

October-Feb ruary

Self

Malampuzha

Dam and Gardens, Rock Garden, Ropeway

October-Mar ch

Palakkad

Place

Highlights

Best Time to Visit

Nearest City

Munnar

Rolling Tea Plantations, Eravikulam National Park (Nilgiri Tahr), Mattupetty Dam, Top Station

October-Ma rch

Kochi

Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Backwaters, Houseboat Cruises, Alappuzha Beach, Mullakkal Temple

October-Ma rch

Kochi

Kumarakom

Bird Sanctuary, Houseboat Cruises, Vembanad Lake, Ayurvedic Resorts

October-Ma rch

Kottayam

Thekkady

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Elephant Safaris), Spice Plantations, Boating in Periyar Lake

October-Ma y

Kumily

Wayanad

Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Soochipara Waterfalls, Chembra Peak

October-Ma y

Kozhikode

Kochi (Cochin)

Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Chinese Fishing Nets, Jew Town

October-Ma rch

Self

Thiruvananthapuram

Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kovalam Beach, Poovar Backwaters, Napier Museum

October-Fe bruary

Self

Varkala

Cliffside Beaches, Ayurvedic Spas, Janardhana Swamy Temple, Sivagiri Mutt

October-Ma rch

Thiruvananthapura m

Athirapally

Athirapally Waterfalls (nicknamed “Niagara of India”), Vazhachal Waterfalls

September- March

Kochi

Bekal

Bekal Fort, Bekal Beach, Backwater Stays, Nityanandashram Caves

October-Ma rch

Kasaragod

Kozhikode (Calicut)

Kappad Beach (where Vasco da Gama landed), Kozhikode Beach, Sweet Street (Mithai Theruvu)

October-Ma rch

Self

Guruvayur

Guruvayur Temple (dedicated to Lord Krishna), Punnathur Kotta Elephant Camp

October-Ma rch

Thrissur

Thrissur

Thrissur Pooram Festival, Vadakkunnathan Temple, Athirappilly Waterfalls

October-Ma y

Self

Kannur

Muzhappilangad Drive-In Beach, St. Angelo’s Fort, Theyyam Performances

October-Ma y

Self

Kollam (Quilon)

Ashtamudi Lake, Jatayu Earth’s Center, Punalur Hanging Bridge

October-Ma rch

Thiruvananthapura m

Idukki

Idukki Dam (Asia’s tallest arch dam), Hill View Park, Ramakkalmedu Wind Farm

October-Ma y

Kochi

Poovar

Floating Cottages, Golden Sand Beach, Backwater Cruises

October-Ma rch

Thiruvananthapura m

Nelliampathy

Hill Station, Orange Plantations, Seetharkundu Viewpoint

October-Ma y

Palakkad

Marari Beach

Pristine Beaches, Ayurvedic Spa Resorts, Fishing Villages

October-Ma rch

Alappuzha

Alathur

Rural Village Life, Paddy Fields, Traditional Culture

October-Ma y

Palakkad

Ponmudi

Hill Station, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Trekking Trails

October-Ma rch

Thiruvananthapura m

Agasthyakoodam

Trekking (Second highest peak in Kerala), Rare Flora and Fauna, Bird Watching

November- May

Thiruvananthapura m

Vythiri

Tree Houses, Coffee Plantations, Wildlife Experiences

October-Ma y

Wayanad

Pathanamthitta

Sabarimala Temple, Aranmula Boat Race, Gavi Forests

October-Fe bruary

Self

Malampuzha

Malampuzha Dam and Gardens, Rock Garden, Ropeway

October-Ma rch

Palakkad

Place

Highlights

Best Time to Visit

Nearest City

Kumbalangi

Model Tourism Village, Crab Farming, Backwater Views

October-M arch

Kochi

Munroe Island

Canoe Rides, Narrow Canals, Village Life

October-M arch

Kollam

Vagamon

Rolling Meadows, Pine Forests, Paragliding

October-M ay

Kottayam

Marayoor

Sandalwood Forests, Prehistoric Dolmens, Waterfalls

October-M ay

Munnar

Anamudi Shola

Dense Forests, Unique Flora and Fauna, Trekking

October-M ay

Munnar

Thenmala

Eco-Tourism, Boating, Rope Bridge

October-M arch

Kollam

Chembra Peak

Heart-Shaped Lake, Trekking Trails, Panoramic Views

October-M ay

Wayanad

Valiyaparamba Backwaters

Untouched Backwaters, Houseboat Rides, Scenic Beauty

October-M arch

Kasaragod

Ilaveezhapoonchira

Hilltop Views, Sunrise and Sunset Points, Trekking

October-M arch

Kottayam

Poonjar Palace

Traditional Architecture, Ancient Artifacts, Heritage Museum

October-M arch

Kottayam

Kuttanad

Rice Bowl of Kerala, Paddy Fields, Houseboat Cruises

October-M arch

Alappuzha

Meenmutty Waterfalls

Three-Tiered Waterfalls, Nature Trails, Bird Watching

October-M ay

Wayanad

Gavi

Forest Camping, Wildlife Spotting, Boating

October-M ay

Pathanamthitta

Vellayani Lake

Freshwater Lake, Boating, Sunset Views

October-M arch

Thiruvananthapura m

Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary

Dense Forests, Trekking, Bird Watching

October-M arch

Thrissur

Paithalmala

Trekking Trails, Cloud-Covered Hills, Wildlife Spotting

October-M arch

Kannur

Thirunelli Temple

Ancient Temple, Surrounded by Brahmagiri Hills, Sacred Papanasini Stream

October-M arch

Wayanad

Banasura Hill Resort

Mud Cottages, Eco-Tourism, Trekking

October-M ay

Wayanad

Kozhippara Waterfalls

Scenic Spot, Natural Pools, Swimming

October-M ay

Malappuram

Ashtamudi Lake

Backwater Cruises, Scenic Beauty, Luxury Resorts

October-M arch

Kollam

Nelliyampathy

Hill Station, Orange Plantations, Pothundy Dam

October-M ay

Palakkad

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

Wildlife Safaris, Bamboo Rafting, Nature Camps

October-M ay

Palakkad

Vythiri Village

Tree Houses, Ayurveda, Natural Streams

October-M ay

Wayanad

Ranipuram

Cloud-Covered Hills, Trekking Trails, Rich Flora

October-M arch

Kasaragod

Attappadi

Tribal Villages, Scenic Valleys, Silent Streams

October-M ay

Palakkad

Activity

Best Places

Best Time

Highlights

Remarks

Houseboat Cruise

Alleppey, Kumarakom, Ashtamudi Lake

October-M arch

Traditional kettuvallams (houseboats) cruising the serene backwaters.

Enjoy freshly cooked local meals on board while relaxing in luxury.

Ayurvedic Spa and Wellness

Kovalam, Varkala, Thekkady

October-M arch

Rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages, therapies, and treatments.

Best experienced in certified Ayurvedic centers.

Trekking

Chembra Peak, Agasthyakoodam, Meenmutty Falls

October-M ay

Scenic trails through tea plantations, forests, and hills.

Chembra’s

heart-shaped lake is a must-visit for trekkers.

Wildlife Safari

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

October-M ay

Spot elephants, tigers, and exotic birds in their natural habitats.

Periyar also offers bamboo rafting experiences.

Kathakali and Cultural Shows

Kochi, Thekkady, Thrissur

October-M arch

Traditional

dance-drama with elaborate costumes and storytelling.

Attend evening shows for a cultural deep dive.

Snake Boat Races

Alleppey, Aranmula

August-Sep tember

Exhilarating boat races during the monsoon season.

Best witnessed during the Onam festival.

Beach Activities

Kovalam, Varkala, Bekal

October-M arch

Sunbathing, parasailing, and beach yoga.

Kovalam’s Lighthouse Beach is ideal for watersports.

Camping

Vagamon, Wayanad, Gavi

October-M ay

Overnight stays under the stars amidst nature.

Combine with trekking for a full adventure experience.

Backwater Kayaking

Alleppey, Kumbalangi, Munroe Island

October-M arch

Paddle through narrow canals and explore village life.

Ideal for adventure enthusiasts seeking offbeat experiences.

Paragliding

Vagamon

October-M ay

Fly over rolling hills and lush greenery.

One of the best paragliding spots in South India.

Waterfall Visits

Athirapally, Vazhachal, Meenmutty Falls

October-M arch

Majestic cascades surrounded by dense forests.

Athirapally is often referred to as the “Niagara of India.”

Cooking Classes

Kochi, Alleppey, Thekkady

All year round

Learn to cook traditional Kerala dishes like appam and fish curry.

Many homestays offer hands-on cooking sessions.

Bird Watching

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kadalundi, Thattekad

November- February

Spot migratory birds like Siberian cranes and kingfishers.

Early mornings are the best time for birdwatching.

Treehouse Stay

Wayanad, Thekkady, Vythiri

October-M ay

Stay amidst nature in a luxurious treehouse.

Perfect for honeymooners and nature lovers.

Tea Plantation Tours

Munnar, Wayanad

October-M ay

Walk through lush tea gardens and visit tea factories.

Munnar also offers tea-tasting sessions.

Dish

Description

Key Ingredients

Best Places to Try

Puttu and Kadala Curry

Steamed rice flour cylinders served with black chickpea curry, a traditional breakfast dish.

Rice Flour, Grated Coconut, Black Chickpeas

Kochi, Thrissur

Appam and Stew

Lacy rice pancakes paired with a mildly spiced coconut-based vegetable or meat stew.

Rice Batter, Coconut Milk, Vegetables/Meat

Alappuzha, Thiruvananthapuram

Kerala Sadya

A grand vegetarian feast served on banana leaves during festivals, featuring over 20 dishes.

Rice, Sambar, Avial, Payasam, Pickles

Thrissur, Kochi

Malabar Biryani

Fragrant rice cooked with spices and either chicken, mutton, or seafood, a specialty of North Kerala.

Jeerakasala Rice, Meat/Seafood, Ghee, Spices

Kozhikode, Malappuram

Fish Moilee

A mildly spiced fish curry cooked in coconut milk, popular in coastal areas.

Fish, Coconut Milk, Curry Leaves, Spices

Kochi, Kollam

Karimeen Pollichathu

Pearl spot fish marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled to perfection.

Karimeen Fish, Spices, Banana Leaf

Kumarakom, Alleppey

Beef Fry and Kerala Parotta

Spicy beef stir-fried with coconut slivers, served with flaky layered flatbreads.

Beef, Coconut, Spices, Maida Flour

Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode

Avial

A medley of vegetables cooked in coconut and yogurt, tempered with curry leaves.

Vegetables, Coconut, Yogurt, Curry Leaves

Thrissur, Kottayam

Thalassery Biryani

A unique biryani variety using short-grain rice,

Jeerakasala Rice, Meat/Seafood, Ghee, Spices

Kannur, Thalassery

infused with Malabar spices and ghee.

Palada Payasam

A sweet rice pudding made with rice flakes, milk, and sugar, often served as dessert in Sadya.

Rice Flakes, Milk, Sugar

Thrissur, Kollam

Erissery

A pumpkin and lentil curry spiced with coconut and garnished with roasted coconut.

Pumpkin, Lentils, Coconut, Spices

Thrissur, Alappuzha

Pathiri

Thin rice flour flatbreads served with spicy curries, a staple in Malabar cuisine.

Rice Flour, Water, Coconut Milk

Malappuram, Kozhikode

Kappa and Meen Curry

Boiled tapioca served with a tangy red fish curry, a rustic delicacy of Kerala.

Tapioca, Fish, Tamarind, Spices

Kollam, Kottayam

Nadan Kozhi Curry

Spicy country chicken curry flavored with coconut and aromatic spices.

Chicken, Coconut, Curry Leaves, Spices

Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi

Banana Chips

Thinly sliced raw banana pieces deep-fried in coconut oil, a popular snack.

Raw Banana, Coconut Oil, Salt

Thrissur, Palakkad

Restaurant/Cafe

Specialty

Location

Remarks

Dhe Puttu

Innovative Puttu Dishes, Appam, Kadala Curry

Kochi, Kozhikode

Known for its creative takes on traditional Kerala dishes like Puttu and Appam.

Saravana Bhavan

South Indian Thali, Idli, Dosa, Sambar, Vada

Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram

A popular vegetarian restaurant chain with extensive options.

Kashi Art Café

Breakfast Delights, Puttu, Coffee, Smoothies

Fort Kochi

A cozy café perfect for breakfast and sipping on freshly brewed coffee.

Sree Krishna Prasadam

Kerala Sadya, Puttu and Kadala Curry, Sambar

Thrissur

Famous for serving authentic Kerala Sadya during festivals and special occasions.

The Rice Boat

Seafood, Karimeen Pollichathu, Fish Moilee

Kochi, Kochi Marriott

A fine-dining experience with exquisite seafood prepared using traditional techniques.

Kochi Kitchen

Malabar Biryani, Nadan Kozhi Curry, Seafood

Kochi Marriott, Kochi

Known for its seafood and Malabar specialties with a luxurious ambiance.

The Tandoor

North Indian, Malabar Biryani, Kebabs, Curries

Kochi

A fusion restaurant serving authentic Kerala and North Indian dishes with a twist.

Fusion Bay

Kerala Seafood, Kappa and Meen Curry, Prawn Masala

Vypin, Kochi

Serves a delicious variety of local seafood with a focus on fresh fish and prawns.

Thalassery Restaurant

Thalassery Biryani, Mutton Curry, Pathiri

Thalassery, Kannur

Specializes in Thalassery Biryani with authentic flavors from North Kerala.

Indian Coffee House

Traditional Kerala Snacks, Coffee, Tea, Snacks

Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram

A retro-style coffee house known for its simple, yet hearty Kerala snacks and coffee.

Biryani Street

Malabar Biryani, Mutton and Chicken Biryani

Kochi

A popular eatery for a quick and delicious serving of Malabar-style biryani.

Malabar Junction

Malabar Biryani, Prawn Curry, Nadan Kozhi Curry

Kochi

Famous for authentic Malabar-style dishes in a relaxed, informal setting.

Pappadavada

Kerala Breakfast, Paratha, Fish Curry, Beef Fry

Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam

Known for its traditional Kerala breakfast and delicious seafood dishes.

Hotel Bharani

Fish Curry Meals, Malabar Parotta, Chicken Fry

Kozhikode

A well-loved spot in Kozhikode, famous for its Malabar cuisine, especially seafood.

Dolphin Restaurant

Seafood, Fish Moilee, Karimeen Pollichathu

Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram

Famous for its coastal seafood specialties with an exceptional dining experience.

Hotel Name

Features

Location

Price Range

Remarks

Leela Kovalam

Cliffside Views, Private Beach, Spa, Infinity Pool

Kovalam

INR 12,000+

A luxurious beachfront property offering a serene escape with world-class amenities.

Taj Bekal Resort & Spa

Luxury Villas, Ayurvedic Spa, Infinity Pool, Beach Access

Bekal, Kasaragod

INR 15,000+

Offers a beautiful coastal retreat with expansive backwaters and exquisite villas.

The Gateway Hotel

Business and Leisure Amenities, Pool, Fine Dining

Vijayawada, Kochi

INR 8,000+

Known for its premium services and modern amenities, ideal for both business and leisure.

Trident Kochi

Water Views, Spa,

Multi-Cuisine Restaurants

Kochi

INR 9,500+

A lakeside retreat with spectacular views and elegant accommodations.

VIVANTA by

Taj

Luxury Rooms, Fitness Center, Rooftop Bar

Thiruvananthapura m

INR 10,000+

Located near the beach with a perfect blend of modern and traditional Kerala architecture.

Kumarakom Lake Resort

Backwater Views, Houseboats, Ayurvedic Spa

Kumarakom, Kottayam

INR 12,500+

One of the best resorts on the Vembanad Lake offering luxurious stays and rejuvenating treatments.

Marari Beach Resort

Beachfront Property, Organic Farms, Ayurveda

Mararikulam, Alappuzha

INR 8,000+

Offers a quiet retreat with eco-friendly luxury and wellness treatments.

The Zuri Kumarakom

Private Beach, Infinity Pool, Golf Course

Kumarakom, Kottayam

INR 13,000+

Ideal for a family holiday with its array of leisure activities and lush surroundings.

Le Meridien Kochi

Marina Views, Spacious Rooms,

Multi-Cuisine Dining

Kochi

INR 9,000+

Known for its expansive property and excellent facilities for corporate and leisure stays.

The Raviz Kadavu

Riverside Property, Ayurveda, Spa, Swimming Pool

Kozhikode

INR 7,000+

Located on the banks of the Chaliyar River, offering a blend of nature and comfort.

Coconut Lagoon Resort

Traditional Kerala Cottages, Ayurveda, Houseboats

Kumarakom, Kottayam

INR 6,500+

A serene retreat with traditional Kerala-style cottages and a relaxing atmosphere.

The Oberoi Rajvilas

Royal Villas, Spa, Luxury Dining, Pool

Kochi

INR 20,000+

A palace-like experience with luxurious service and unparalleled opulence.

Fragrant Nature Resort

Nature Views, Spa,

Eco-Friendly, Pool

Thekkady, Idukki

INR 9,000+

Situated in the heart of Thekkady with an emphasis on sustainable living and wellness.

Ramada Resort

Beachfront, Indoor and Outdoor Pools, Multi-Cuisine Dining

Kollam

INR 6,500+

Offers a relaxing beach resort experience with a variety of dining and recreational activities.

Niraamaya Retreats

Wellness Retreat, Ayurveda, Private Beach, Yoga

Kovalam

INR 15,000+

A wellness sanctuary focusing on Ayurveda and yoga, perfect for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Homestay Name

Features

Location

Price Range

Remarks

Philipkutty’s Farm

Island Stay, Organic Farming, Traditional Cuisine

Kumarakom

INR 6,000+

Offers a unique island stay with home-grown organic produce and traditional Kerala hospitality.

Vythiri Village Resort

Tree Houses, Ayurveda, Natural Streams

Wayanad

INR 8,000+

A serene retreat nestled in nature, with eco-friendly accommodations and rejuvenating spa treatments.

Wagamon Orchid

Organic Farming, Eco-Friendly, Scenic Views

Wagamon

INR 4,000+

Focuses on sustainability with a farm-to-table dining experience and tranquil hill station surroundings.

Misty Mountain Resort

Tea Gardens, Trekking Trails, Ayurveda

Wayanad

INR 5,000+

Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering trekking and mountain views.

Kumarakom Lake Resort

Backwater Views, Traditional Kerala Cottages, Ayurveda

Kumarakom, Kottayam

INR 12,500+

Offers a luxurious backwater experience with traditional

Kerala-style cottages and Ayurvedic treatments.

The Green Gates

Organic Vegetables, Tranquil Location, Warm Hospitality

Kochi

INR 3,000+

Known for its warm homely atmosphere and fresh organic meals from their farm.

Gavi Forest Homestay

Forest Camping, Wildlife, Trekking Trails

Pathanamthitta

INR 3,500+

Perfect for eco-tourists, offering a blend of adventure, forest camping, and wildlife spotting.

Sree Sankara Lodge

Homely Atmosphere, Close to Temple, Local Cuisine

Thiruvananthapura m

INR 2,500+

Offers a peaceful stay with traditional Kerala vegetarian meals and proximity to local temples.

Mullapanthal Homestay

Beachfront, Seafood, Authentic Kerala Dishes

Bekal, Kasaragod

INR 3,500+

A perfect beachside homestay with a focus on fresh seafood and a quiet coastal experience.

Kondai Lip Backwater Homestay

Backwater Views, Authentic Kerala Cuisine, Tranquil Setting

Cherthala, Alappuzha

INR 4,500+

A peaceful stay by the backwaters, offering authentic Kerala cuisine and an immersive local experience.

The Treehouse Resort

Treehouses, Eco-Friendly, Nature Trails

Wayanad

INR 6,000+

A unique treehouse experience with panoramic views and sustainable accommodations.

Soma Kerala Palace

Heritage Property, Traditional Kerala Architecture

Alappuzha

INR 8,000+

A heritage homestay built in traditional Kerala style, offering a serene and royal ambiance.

Thiruvambadi Homestay

Near River, Rustic Village Setting, Local Cultural Experiences

Thrissur

INR 2,500+

Perfect for travelers looking for a cultural experience with local performances and village life.

Vandanmedu Homestay

Coffee Plantations, Tranquil Village, Scenic Views

Idukki

INR 3,500+

Located in the heart of Kerala’s coffee-growing region, this homestay offers a peaceful village escape.

Chillout Homestay

Ayurvedic Treatments, Local Village Life,

Eco-Friendly

Varkala

INR 4,500+

A relaxing retreat with an emphasis on wellness, Ayurveda, and local cultural immersion.

Festival Name

Month

Location

Highlights

Onam

August-Sept ember

Statewide

Celebrates the homecoming of King Mahabali with traditional dances, floral decorations (Pookalam), grand feasts (Sadya), and Vallamkali (boat races).

Vishu

April

Statewide

Marks the Malayali New Year with rituals, the Vishu Kani (first sight of the day), and festive meals.

Thrissur Pooram

April-May

Thrissur

Kerala’s largest and most famous temple festival with spectacular elephant processions, fireworks, and percussion performances.

Neelamperoor Snake Boat Race

August-Sept ember

Neelamperoor (Alappuzha)

One of the most prestigious boat races held during the Onam festival, featuring snake boats racing across the Punnappra River.

Attukal Pongala

February-M arch

Thiruvananthapuram

A unique women-only festival where thousands of women gather to prepare offerings of rice and coconut for the goddess Attukal.

Onam Boat Race (Vallamkali)

August-Sept ember

Alappuzha, Kottayam

A vibrant boat race in the backwaters featuring massive snake boats competing for the grand prize.

Makaravilakku

January

Sabarimala

Celebrates the arrival of the 'Makarajyothi' (star) at the Sabarimala Temple with rituals, processions, and the lighting of the sacred lamp.

Kochi-Muziris Biennale

December-J anuary

Kochi

A contemporary art exhibition that showcases global art, with installations, performances, and cultural programs throughout the city.

Ayyappa Swamy’s Mandala Pooja

November- December

Sabarimala

A 41-day long festival observed by devotees of Lord Ayyappa, culminating with a grand procession on Makaravilakku day.

Baisakhi

April

Statewide

Celebrates the harvest season with rituals, traditional dances, and festive foods.

Dussehra (Dasara)

September- October

Statewide

Celebrates the victory of good over evil with processions, firework displays, and rituals, with large celebrations in Thrissur and Kozhikode.

Chingam (Malayali New Year)

August-Sept ember

Statewide

A festival celebrating the Malayalam New Year with family gatherings, feasts, and prayers.

Karkidaka Vavu Bali

July-August

Statewide

A ritualistic offering to ancestors, where people perform pujas at riverbanks and temples, seeking blessings.

Uthralikavu Pooram

February-M arch

Irinjalakuda (Thrissur)

A colorful temple festival with processions, music, and fireworks to honor the deity of Uthralikavu.

Makar Sankranti

January

Statewide

Celebrates the harvest and the transition of the sun to Capricorn, marked by kite flying, fairs, and community feasts.

Kudamattom

September- October

Changanassery, Kottayam

A temple festival with elaborate processions, colorful umbrellas, and drumming, particularly famous in the central Kerala region.

Arattupuzha Pooram

April

Arattupuzha (Thrissur)

A major temple festival featuring a grand procession of elephants, drumming performances, and rituals.

Thiruvathira

December-J anuary

Statewide

A dance festival celebrated by women in honor of Lord Shiva, with traditional dances, rituals, and feasts.

Mudiattom

April

Palakkad

Celebrates the harvest season with village fairs, traditional dances, and rituals in honor of local deities.

Bakarid

November- December

Statewide

Celebrates Eid-ul-Fitr with feasts, prayers, and charity, marking the end of Ramadan.

Sivarathri

February-M arch

Statewide

A night dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed with fasting, prayers, and chanting.

Pongal

January

Statewide

Celebrates the harvest with prayers to the sun god and family feasts, especially popular in Tamil Nadu, but also celebrated in parts of Kerala.

Valluvakonath Pooram

April

Kannur

A temple festival in honor of Valluvakonath, with grand processions, folk dances, and music.

Chidambaram Temple Festival

October-No vember

Chidambaram (near Kochi)

Celebrates the worship of Lord Nataraja with traditional rituals, dances, and offerings.