Thrissur Pooram 2026

The Pooram Phenomenon

Thrissur Pooram is the mother of all temple festivals in Kerala, often called the "Festival of Festivals." Conceived by Sakthan Thampuran, the Maharaja of Cochin, in the 18th century, it brings together temples from surrounding regions in a grand display of devotion and pageantry.

The festival is a breathtaking spectacle featuring over 50 caparisoned elephants adorned with golden nettipattam (elephant caparisons), the famous Kudamattom (ceremonial umbrella exchange), and the rhythmic thunder of Panchari Melam performed by over 200 percussion artists.

The day culminates in a spectacular midnight firework display that draws hundreds of thousands of spectators from around the world.

🎪 50+ Elephants

🥁 200+ Musicians

🎆 Midnight Fireworks

🏛️ 10+ Participating Temples
Thrissur Pooram elephants
Caparisoned elephants during Thrissur Pooram

📅 Pooram Day Schedule

Flag Hoisting & Ezhunnallathu

Ceremonial flag hoisting at Paramekkavu and Thiruvambady temples. The deities are taken out in processions.

Processions Begin

Both groups start their processions towards Thekkinkadu Maidan with decorated elephants and traditional music.

Kudamattom Begins

The spectacular umbrella exchange ceremony where richly decorated umbrellas are hoisted on elephant backs.

Panchari Melam

Grand percussion ensemble featuring ilathalam, kombu, and edakka. The highlight of the festival.

Kudamattom

Second round of umbrella exchange with even more elaborate and colorful umbrellas.

Pallivetta & Upacharam

Symbolic hunting ritual followed by traditional offerings.

Processions Return

The deities return to their respective temples amidst fireworks and music.

Fireworks Display

Grand finale with spectacular fireworks lighting up the Thrissur sky. A breathtaking experience!

✨ Key Highlights of Thrissur Pooram

Caparisoned Elephants

Over 50 elephants adorned with golden nettipattam, ornate necklaces, and silk umbrellas. The majestic sight of elephants standing in rows is unforgettable.

Kudamattom

The ceremonial umbrella exchange where decorated umbrellas in vibrant colors are raised and exchanged atop elephants in a synchronized ritual.

Panchari Melam

Thunderous percussion ensemble with over 200 artists creating rhythmic patterns that resonate through the maidan. A musical spectacle like no other.

Midnight Fireworks

The grand fireworks display illuminates the night sky for hours. Considered one of the best firework shows in India.

Participating Temples

Two main groups - Paramekkavu and Thiruvambady - along with 8 other temples, compete in a friendly rivalry to present the best spectacle.

Traditional Instruments

Experience the sounds of chenda, ilathalam, kombu, and kuzhal, creating an unforgettable auditory experience.