Onam is the most popular and important celebration in Kerala. It is celebrated in the Malayalam month of Chingam (August- September). Celebrations which start on the day of ‘Atham’ last for 10 days. The 10^th day called ‘Thiruvonam’ is the most important day of celebration on which the special elaborate feast called ‘Onasadhya is served.

According to the legend, the King of Mahabali, visits the people of his kingdom during the Onam days, and people receives him with utmost happiness and join in celebrations in a grand manner. The cultural heritage of Kerala is on display in full swing during this festival. Elaborate celebrations, energetic games, folk songs, boat races and dances are part of the spirited celebrations.  Vallamkali (snake boat race) is another event that features the celebration during the season.

During these 10 days, the front courtyard of every house in Kerala will be decorated with a floral design called ‘pookkalam’ to welcome the King!  Entire state of Kerala celebrates the festival as ‘Tourist week’ and thousands of domestic and foreign tourists visit Kerala to be a part of this festival.