Onam Celebrations in India: Traditions, Significance & Best Places to Visit

If there’s one festival that captures the true essence of Kerala’s culture and spreads joy far, it’s Onam. This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Kerala and across India. The harvest festival is not just about the tradition, but about the unity, joy, and togetherness. From delicious Sadhya feasts and colourful floral carpets to the thrilling Vallamkali boat races and lively cultural performances, Onam is an experience that brings people together like no other. Whether you’re curious about its origins, want to soak in its unique rituals, or are planning to witness it in different cities, Onam is the perfect blend of heritage and celebration that you shouldn’t miss.

In this blog, let’s learn more about Onam celebrations in India, understand why it is celebrated, and explore the best places where you can soak in the festive vibe.

Why Is Onam Celebrated?

The festival of Onam marks the homecoming of King Mahabal. He was a legendary ruler of Kerala known for his prosperity and generosity. As per the legends, God permitted him to visit his people once a year, and that’s the reason why Onam is celebrated. This makes the festival not just a cultural extravaganza but also a reminder of unity, equality, and gratitude.

Significance of the Onam Festival

The significance of the Onam festival lies in its ability to bring communities together, regardless of caste, faith or religion. Also, this is a harvest festival that celebrates togetherness, prosperity, and the vibrant tradition of Kerala. The lip-smacking Onam Sadhya, thrilling Onam boat race, lively performances of traditional dance, and music, such as Thiruvathira and Pulikali, reflect the rich heritage of the state.

When Is Onam in 2025?

Onam is celebrated during the Malayalam month of Chingam, which usually falls in August–September. Onam in 2025 will begin on August 28 and will culminate on September 5 with Thiruvonam. This entire festival is filled with traditions, rituals, and cultural events that captivate not just the locals but also tourists from all across the world.

Highlights of Onam Traditions Across India

• Onam Sadhya: A vegetarian feast is served on a banana leaf with over 20 dishes, and it is the soul of Onam. No matter where you are in India, restaurants and cultural organisations prepare authentic Sadhya during the festival.
• Onam Boat Race: While the most famous boat races are in Kerala’s Alappuzha, many Malayali associations in cities such as Mumbai and Chennai organise mock races or screenings of the event.
• Traditional Onam Dance and Music: From Pulikali (tiger dance) and Thiruvathira (graceful women’s dance) to Kathakali dramas, Onam is a festival that showcases the cultural richness of Kerala. Various stunning performances are organised in auditoriums, malls, and cultural centres across India to celebrate.
• Pookalam Competitions: Complex floral carpets decorate community halls, homes, and contests are often organised in offices, schools, and public venues outside Kerala too.

Best Places to Celebrate Onam in India

Onam may belong to Kerala, but Malayali communities across India ensure its grand celebration in major cities. Below are the best places to celebrate Onam in India that celebrate this festival with great zeal. Let’s have a look:

• Kerala—The Heartbeat of Onam Celebrations in India

Kerala is surely one of the best places to celebrate Onam in India, as it is the festival that is deeply connected with the culture and traditions of the state. Also, the Onam festival in Kerala is marked by vibrant flower carpets (Pookalam), traditional dance performances like Kathakali and Thiruvathira, and the grand Onam Sadya feast, which is served on banana leaves. Moreover, the spectacular Vallam Kali (snake boat races) and cultural processions add a zeal to the festive spirit, making the celebrations in Kerala truly authentic and unforgettable.

• Chennai—A Cultural Blend with Kerala Vibes

The Malayali community of Chennai makes Onam one of the most eagerly awaited festivals here. There are several cultural associations, including the Kerala Samajam, that organise large-scale celebrations featuring Onam Sadhya with over 20 dishes served on banana leaves. Not only this, but the city also hosts traditional Onam dance and music performances such as Kathakali, Thiruvathira, and Mohiniyattam, which offer a cultural treat for the travellers. If you want to experience the richness of Kerala’s traditions while also exploring Chennai’s own heritage and beaches, then you must visit Chennai at least once during Onam.

• Bengaluru—Where Tradition Meets Modernity

The cosmopolitan vibe of Bengaluru makes it a unique place to visit during Onam. There are several iconic restaurants and star hotels that serve elaborate Onam Sadhya, while tech parks and some residential communities organise Pookalam (floral rangoli) competitions and cultural programs. Also, the Malayali population of the city ensures that traditions such as Pulikali (tiger dance) and Onam boat race screenings are part of the festivities. What makes Bengaluru special is how it integrates the authentic flavours of Kerala with the modern energy of the city, making it a perfect destination for all families, professionals, and tourists as well.

• Mumbai—A Melting Pot of Festivities

Mumbai is the melting pot of cultures that celebrates every festival with magnificence, making it a popular tourist attraction during Onam. The cultural associations of Kerala host grand Onam fairs with stalls selling spices, handicrafts, and traditional attire. Moreover, restaurants across the city serve authentic Sadhya, whereas community halls buzz with exciting dance and music performances. Not only this, but some areas even recreate the boat race on Onam in smaller water bodies or through digital screening, drawing huge crowds. In short, Mumbai's inclusiveness makes it one of the best cities to experience the Onam festival in India beyond Kerala.

• Hyderabad—A Growing Hub for Onam Festivities

Hyderabad has appeared as a major hub for Onam celebrations in recent years, thanks to its thriving Malayali community. Several restaurants across Hyderabad organise Onam Sadhya feasts, while cultural halls host Pulikali performances and traditional dances. Also, shopping malls join the festive spirit by organising flower rangoli competitions and Onam-themed events. Overall, Hyderabad is another perfect place to celebrate Onam because it offers the perfect mix of authentic Kerala traditions with the city’s own Deccani flavours, making the festival feel both traditional and refreshing.

Useful & Handy Travel Tips for Onam 2025

• Book early: Onam is the peak festive season in Kerala. Therefore, flights, hotels, and houseboats get sold out quickly. So, make sure to secure your bookings beforehand for the best deals.
• Don’t miss the Sadhya: If you are in Kerala during the Onam festival, make sure to try the traditional Onam Sadhya, which is served in traditional style on a banana leaf with 20+ dishes. Moreover, several homestays and restaurants across Kerala and metro cities serve authentic feasts during this festival.
• Catch a boat race: The popular Onam boat races like the Nehru Trophy in Alappuzha are must-sees. To get a good spot, make sure to arrive early or book a boat cruise to enjoy the view.
• Dress comfortably & modestly: Light cotton clothes are perfect for the weather in Kerala during Onam. However, during your visit to temples or cultural events, make sure to dress modestly and respect the tradition.
• Join local festivities: You can also take part in Pookalam (floral rangoli) competitions, cultural shows, or Pulikali performances, as it’s the best way to feel the real spirit of this festival.

Plan Your Onam Trip with My Flight Trip

Onam is more than just a festival; it’s a cultural phenomenon that unites people across India. If you are also planning for your Onam trip and want it to be hassle-free, you can connect with My Flight Trip. We always ensure to make your travel experience as authentic and convenient as possible. Whether you want to explore the vibrant towns of Kerala or join the exciting Onam celebration beyond the station, MFT ensures a seamless journey for you with well-curated packages, local experiences, and smooth bookings. So, what are you waiting for? Book a Kerala tour package or explore other Indian cities that celebrate Onam with a lot of fervour and enthusiasm.