Venue: Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, Kottayam .

The festival, which commences on March 14 and concludes on March 23, gives you glimpses of Kerala’s traditional sublime rituals. You may walk into the famous Mahadeva (Shiva) temple of Thirunakkara, Kottayam to see not only the exquisite architecture of the temple, but also the folk arts like Mayilattam and Velakali held here as part of the ten days long festival. The Kathakali buffs have a real feast awaiting them, as there are all-night Kathakali performances by eminent artistes. The festival draws to a close with the Arat (traditional ritualistic bath given to the deity of the temple). About nine caparisoned elephants usually take part in the colourful Arat procession.

Getting there:
Nearest railway station: Kottayam, a few minutes’ drive from the shrine
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 76 km from Kottayam.