Thrikkakara Vamanamoorthy Utsav 2026

Full Date

16 August 2026 6:00 AM – 25 August 2026 8:00 PM

Muhurat Timings in India

• Kodiyettem (Flag Hoisting)

  The opening flag hoisting ceremony marking the start of the festival.

  16 August 2026 6:00 AM – 16 August 2026 7:00 AM

• Pookalam Preparations

  Daily preparation of floral rangoli designs symbolizing prosperity.

  17 August 2026 9:00 AM – 24 August 2026 6:00 PM

• Pallivetta (Divine Hunt)

  A ritual symbolic of the god's hunt to protect the land.

  24 August 2026 4:00 PM – 24 August 2026 6:00 PM

• Aarattu (Holy Bath)

  Ceremonial bathing of Lord Vamana deity in temple pond marking festival conclusion.

  25 August 2026 6:00 AM – 25 August 2026 8:00 AM

Introduction

Thrikkakara Vamanamoorthy Utsav is a significant ten-day festival held annually in Kerala, celebrating Lord Vamana, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The festival coincides with the Onam season, marking the rich cultural heritage and communal harmony of the region.

Other Names

Thrikkakara Onam Festival, Vamana Avatar Utsav

Pooja Vidhi

• Commence with Kodiyettem, the flag hoisting ceremony at dawn.
• Arrange daily Pookalams around the temple with fresh flowers.
• Perform daily cultural shows of Kerala's traditional arts.
• Adorn the Vamana idol with sandalwood, flowers and silk garments.
• Initiate elephant processions accompanied by Panchavadyam music.
• Conduct Pallivetta and Aarattu rituals involving holy baths and symbolic hunts.

Rituals

• The festival begins with the flag hoisting ceremony called Kodiyettem.
• Pookalam, elaborate floral rangoli patterns, are prepared daily around the temple and homes.
• Daily cultural programs such as Kathakali, Chakyar Koothu, and Panchavadyam showcase Kerala’s heritage.
• The idol of Lord Vamana is adorned with sandalwood paste and vibrant decorations each day.
• Elephants participate in ceremonial processions, accompanied by traditional music.
• Major rituals include the Pallivetta (divine hunt) and the Aarattu (holy bath) of the deity.

Regional Highlights

• Thrikkakara Vamanamoorthy Temple is considered the epicenter of Onam celebrations in Kerala.
• The festival promotes communal harmony and cultural pride among locals.
• Traditional Kerala performing arts are an integral part of the festivities.

History

The Thrikkakara Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Vamana, believed to be over 2000 years old. The festival celebrates the Vamana avatar's legendary act of curbing the demon king Mahabali, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the return of prosperity to the land.

Additional Information

• The temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, significant divine Vishnu temples.
• Thrikkakara Utsav is famous for its peaceful and inclusive celebrations.
• Thousands of devotees from across India and abroad attend the festival annually.