Every year, for ten long days, the precincts of the Thrikkakara Temple turn into a sea of festivities as it bears witness to a magnificent festival- the Thiruvonamahotsavam. The Thrikkakara Temple, an ancient temple near Kochi which is one of the few temples dedicated to Vamana, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, becomes the hub of all celebrations during Onam. 

Extravagant celebrations are held here for ten long days. The festival which starts on Atham asterism with the kodiyettu - the hoisting of the ceremonial flag ends on the Thiruvonam day. 

The festival also offers the unique opportunity to witness some of the finest portrayals of the several art forms of Kerala. Temple art forms and traditional and classical art forms are staged in the temple premises. 

The final two days, the Uthradam and Thiruvonam days, are marked by several grand rituals.Pakal Pooram is one such which involves the staging of attractive events like Melam, the traditional percussion ensemble of Kerala. One also gets to savour the famed feast of Kerala, Ona Sadya (Onam Feast) on the Uthradam and Thiruvonam days. A grand Arattu ceremony, the holy bath of the deity, marks the end of the festivities. 

The festival which truly captures the spirit of Onam is celebrated with much fanfare at the temple and is one that should be on the itinerary of every traveller.

Here is a video of the festival.