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Enjoy the Vibrant Temple Festivals of Kerala

Kerala is known for its breathtaking beauty. However, many tourists are still in the dark about the other experiences they can have while on a holiday here. The temple festivals of Kerala are not just vibrant, they are exotic and elaborate. The fervour and the frenzy that takes over spectators energizing the whole place is something one must experience.

Etched in culture, moulded by tradition and these customs are well preserved even today, which can give you a true taste of this regions rich heritage. The main highlight of these festivals is a show of strength and resilience, which is symbolized by the mighty majestic elephants.

These temple festivals are a part of an annual ritual that takes place in each temple. A tribute is paid to the patron deity of the each temple, as they emerge from the confines of the temple once in a year. Each of these festivals has their own myths and legends related to the residing deity. These festivals are celebrated between the months of February and April, which is spread across ten days.

You would find a multitude of temples throughout the state. However, if you want to drop into the biggest and brightest celebrations then you must head to Thrissur’s Vadakkumnathan temple. The temple festival here is referred to as Thrissur Pooram, which takes place during the Medam, which is the Malayalam month of April/May. Another festival that you can check out is the Arattupuzha Pooram, which takes place not very far from Thrissur. The highlight of this festival is that 60 elephants take part take in the festivities here.

Now that you know when and where you can attend temple festivals in Kerala, you must be wondering how these festivals are celebrated. Unlike every day temple rituals that are often simple and quite modest, all this changes when a temple festival is due. These rituals are taken to a whole new level of pomp, show and grandeur. This festive period is a big event which is marked on the social calendar of Keralites across the state. There are several large processions with elephants, musicians, drummers, fireworks as well as colourful floats carrying the goddesses and gods.

There are several rituals that are performed during the temple festivals. The tantric, the temples main priest conducts detailed rituals according to the temple deity. These rituals consist of the Arattu or the holy bath and Pallivetta or the royal hunt, which is performed across all major temples. During the temple festival at Thrissur and the Arattupuzha Poorams, the deities are placed atop the mightiest elephants and they visit the deities at other temples.

The enormous crowds, the festive spirit, processions, vibrant colors amidst pomp, show and splendor of these temple festivals will give you a feeling that you have been transported to another world altogether. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book your tickets and head to Kerala and experience the splendor here. It’s a decision which you would never regret and cherish for a lifetime.