Ten Days
Onam unfolds over ten days in the Malayalam month of Chingam, beginning with Atham and culminating in the grand celebration of Thiruvonam.
തിരുവോണം
26 August 2026
Counting down in Bahrain time (Asia/Bahrain)
The first flower carpet is laid — a single small ring of yellow flowers marks the start of Onam.
The Pookkalam grows with a second ring. Homes begin their festive cleaning and preparation.
New clothes (Onakkodi) are bought and shopping for the festival gathers pace.
One of the busiest days — markets brim with vegetables and provisions for the Sadya.
Preparations for the famous Vallamkali (snake boat races) traditionally begin.
Families reunite; the flower carpet grows larger and more intricate each day.
Smaller Onam Sadyas are served and temples hold special celebrations.
Small clay statues of Mahabali and Vamana (Onathappan) are installed at the centre of the Pookkalam.
Called 'First Onam' — the day Mahabali is believed to arrive in Kerala. Final shopping and cooking take place.
The most auspicious day of Onam: the grand Sadya, new clothes, prayers and the biggest celebrations.
