Alpashi Festival

This 10-day traditional festival, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, features ceremonial processions and culminates with the historic Aarattu bath at Shangumugham Beach.

• During the Alpashi festival days, the Utsava Sheeveli (festival procession) will take place in the evening at 8:30 PM.

• Kathakali performances will be held at the Natakashala (theatre) at the Eastern entrance (Kizhakke Nada) at 10:00 PM on festival days.

• Dance performances and temple arts will be presented in the evenings.

• On festival days, the Utsava Sheeveli will be conducted at 4:30 PM and 8:30 PM.

• In connection with the festival, various cultural programmes will be held below the eastern entrance steps, at Sripadam (Northern entrance / Vakkke Nada), and at the Tulabhara Mandapam. Additionally, Kathakali performances will be staged at the Eastern Natakashala (theatre) starting from 10:00 PM.

• Aarattu Procession: The final day features the traditional procession where deities are carried to Shangumugham Beach for a holy purification bath.

• Royal Tradition: Members of the Travancore Royal Family participate in the procession, escorting the idols with drawn swords.

This festival is one of the two main bi-annual festivals held at the temple, the other being the Painkuni festival. It aligns with the Malayalam month of Thulam (October/November).