Vaisakha Mahotsavam 2026

Official Festival Day Schedule

Translated to English from the Devaswom list, with Malayalam ritual names preserved in brackets for accurate reference.

23 May 2026 to 24 June 2026 Malayalam months: Edavam and Mithunam Official Source

Special Days

14

Schedule Window

33 days

Priority Day

20 June

Official 2026 Day Schedule

Date Weekday Malayalam Date Special Day / Ritual
23 May 2026SaturdayEdavam 9 (1201)Nirezhunnellathu(നീരെഴുന്നെള്ളത്ത്)
28 May 2026ThursdayEdavam 14 (1201)Neyyattam(നെയ്യാട്ടം)
29 May 2026FridayEdavam 15 (1201)Bhandaram Ezhunellathu(ഭണ്ഡാരം എഴുനെള്ളത്ത്)
05 June 2026FridayEdavam 22 (1201)Thiruvonam Aaradhana(തിരുവോണം ആരാധന)
07 June 2026SundayEdavam 24 (1201)Ilaneer Veyppu(ഇളനീർ വെപ്പ്)
08 June 2026MondayEdavam 25 (1201)Ilaneerattam and Ashtami Aaradhana(ഇളനീരാട്ടം, അഷ്‌ടമി ആരാധന)
10 June 2026WednesdayEdavam 27 (1201)Revathi Aaradhana(രേവതി ആരാധന)
14 June 2026SundayEdavam 31 (1201)Rohini Aaradhana(രോഹിണി ആരാധന)
16 June 2026TuesdayMithunam 2 (1201)Thiruvathira Chathushatham(തിരുവാതിര ചതുശ്ശതം)
17 June 2026WednesdayMithunam 3 (1201)Punartham Chuthushatham(പുണർതം ചുതുശ്ശതം)
19 June 2026FridayMithunam 5 (1201)Aayilyam Chathushatham(ആയില്യം ചതുശ്ശതം)
20 June 2026SaturdayMithunam 6 (1201)Makam Kalam Varavu(മകം കലം വരവ്)
23 June 2026TuesdayMithunam 9 (1201)Atham Chathushatham, Vaalattam, Kalashapooja(അത്തം ചതുശ്ശതം വാളാട്ടം കലശപൂജ)
24 June 2026WednesdayMithunam 10 (1201)Thrikkalashattu(തൃക്കലശാട്ട്)

Last verified on: 13 June 2026 from official Devaswom page.

Festival Announcement

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers for pilgrims planning their festival visit.

What is the best time to visit Kottiyoor festival?

The peak days are 28-29 May (Neyyattam and Bhandaram Ezhunnallath rituals) and 23-24 June (closing rituals). If you prefer smaller crowds, visit early days (23-27 May) or mid-festival dates. Sunday & weekend dates (7, 14 June) also attract higher visitors.

Are there any entry restrictions I should know about?

Yes. On 20 June 2026 (Makam day), women-entry is restricted after Uchaseeveli (afternoon ritual). This is an official Devaswom notice. Check the temple on-site announcements for any additional seasonal guidelines or temple rules.

What should I carry for a festival temple visit?

Bring plenty of drinking water, sun protection (hat/umbrella), wet wipes, phone charger, comfortable walking shoes, and a small bag for essentials. During monsoon season (May-June in Kerala), carry rain protection. Avoid carrying valuable jewelry or large bags during crowded ritual days.

Do I need special clothes or follow dress code?

While there's no strict enforced dress code, traditional or modest attire is respectful (full-length clothing preferred). During Neyyattam and Bhandaram rituals, pilgrims often wear traditional Kerala attire or simple formal wear. Remove footwear at appropriate temple spaces as per temple protocol.

How early should I arrive on peak festival days?

For major ritual days (28 May, 29 May, 23-24 June), arrive 1-2 hours early. Traffic and parking fill up quickly. Ritual times vary, so check the Devaswom official page or call ahead for exact ceremony timings. Local pilgrim hostels open early morning for accommodations.

Is accommodation available near the temple during festival?

Yes. The temple has a pilgrim guest house (Perumthanam), and surrounding villages have homestays and budget lodges. Book 2-3 weeks in advance for peak dates. Popular stay options are in Kottiyoor itself and nearby towns like Iritty and Thalasserry.