Thiru Utsavam is the grand annual festival celebrated at the Mukhathala Sri Krishna Swamy Temple located in Kollam, Kerala. This festival is a vibrant display of devotion, tradition and cultural heritage attracting thousands of devotees from across the state.
The 2026 festival begins with the Thiruvabharana Ghoshayathra on Monday, April 27 followed by Uthirotsavam on Tuesday, April 28 marking an important ritual of the temple. The Thrikkodiyet on April 29 signifies the official commencement of the main festival events.
The festival culminates with the sacred Thiru-Aarattu on Friday, May 8 when the idol of Lord Krishna is taken for a ceremonial bath in the temple pond amidst traditional music, chants and processions.
🕉️ Sacred Kodiyettam Ceremony
🚩 Thiruvabharana Ghoshayatra
🏵️ Kettukazhcha Festival Display
🏹 Pallivetta Ritual
🌊 Thiru Aarattu Procession - May 8, 2026
The sacred flag hoisting marks the official start of Thiru Utsavam 2026 with special poojas, rituals, and temple decorations.
A grand procession of the holy ornaments of Lord Krishna through the temple premises, accompanied by traditional music and chanting.
Colorful festival displays and decorative structures are showcased as part of the temple celebrations, reflecting Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
A symbolic royal hunt ritual performed as part of the festivities to honor Lord Krishna and protect the devotees from evil forces.
The festival concludes with the sacred bath of the deity, accompanied by devotional music, processions, and community celebrations.
The ceremonial flag hoisting on April 29, 2026 marks the auspicious start of Thiru Utsavam, inviting blessings of Lord Krishna.
On April 27, 2026, the sacred ornaments of Lord Krishna are taken out in a grand procession accompanied by traditional music and chanting.
Traditional Kerala percussion orchestras and solo performances fill the temple premises with rhythmic devotion and excitement.
Majestic elephants adorned with ceremonial decorations participate in vibrant processions during the festival.
Classical music, devotional performances, dance, and other traditional art forms of Kerala are showcased to entertain devotees and visitors.
The holy bath of the deity on May 8, 2026 marks the grand conclusion of Thiru Utsavam, bringing the festival to a devotional and celebratory close.
Venue: Mukhathala Sri Krishna Swamy Temple, Kollam
Nearest Town: Kollam (15 km)
Railway: Kollam Junction Railway Station (15 km)
Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (70 km)
Road: Well connected via NH 744 and state highways; regular KSRTC and private buses, taxis available to Mukhathala