Holi in Kerala feels like a different festival altogether. It's celebrated every year in beach towns and backwater areas like Kochi, Kovalam, and Alleppey in March, about 1,400 kilometers south of the traditional Holi centers. The celebrations here are totally different from North India—quieter, smaller gatherings, and a lot more chill.
Holi celebrations in Kerala (also known as Manjal Kuli or Ukuli) are mostly about beach resorts and homestays throwing parties where people play with organic colors. Locals and tourists gather near the beaches and splash colored water at each other. There's traditional music, Kerala-style food like sadya and payasam, and the whole vibe is just relaxed. No huge crowds pushing around, no chaos—just good fun with colors in a beautiful setting, making it one of the places to celebrate Holi in India.
If you are someone who is planning to visit and witness Holi in Kerala, then you should also stay for a few more days and see the tea estates, go on a houseboat, or check out the wildlife spots. Our India Trip Packages are designed to blend festive moments like Holi with Kerala’s landscapes, culture, and slow travel experiences, so you don’t just celebrate, you truly explore.
Key Highlights of Holi in Kerala
- 2026 Manjal Kuli (Holi in Kerala) Date: Monday, March 02, 2026
- Timings: Early morning to late afternoon (around 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM)
- Location: Konkani & Kudumbi community temples in Kochi, Thrissur, and nearby areas (notably Gosripuram Thirumala Devaswom, Kochi)
- Name & Meaning: “Manjal” means turmeric in Malayalam, and “Kuli” means bath. Together, Manjal Kuli translates to “turmeric bath,” reflecting the core ritual of the celebration.
- Rituals: Women and men splash turmeric-mixed water on each other, sing folk songs, and apply the color yellow gently to the face and arms. No dry gulal. No loud music. It’s slow, respectful, and joyful.
- Cultural Traditions: The Manjal Kuli tradition is Kerala’s own way of celebrating Holi, where turmeric replaces synthetic colors, and meaning takes precedence over spectacle. It is linked to spring, purity, and community bonding, especially among Konkani and Kudumbi families.
- Atmosphere: The celebration happens in temple courtyards and homes. The mood is calm, friendly, and cultural. Instead of chaos, you’ll see laughter, songs, and quiet happiness.
- Modern Celebrations: Alongside temple rituals, cities and beach towns now host contemporary Holi events with music, organic colors, and curated gatherings. In places like Kochi and Kovalam, you’ll find beachside parties and resort celebrations that blend the traditional spirit of Holi with a relaxed, coastal vibe.
Why Celebrate Holi in Kerala? Know History and Origin
Holi in South India is known for its history, spirituality, and beauty. But during Holi in Kerala, the town takes on a whole new energy.
Holi in Kerala doesn’t come from dramatic Radha–Krishna legends or playful battles with sticks. Its soul comes from the old Manjal Kuli Tradition, where turmeric takes the place of bright gulal, and calm takes the place of chaos.
Long ago, Konkani and Kudumbi families welcomed spring with the Manjal Kuli Festival, gently splashing turmeric water on each other as a way to cleanse the past and begin anew. This kind of Manjalkuli was never about showing off. It was about feeling good together.
What this really means is that the Holi celebration in Kerala isn’t just for fun photos or loud music. Every splash in a Manjal Kuli Celebration Kerala style, every song in a quiet courtyard, and every shared smile connect you to something deeper.
Even today, alongside modern beach parties and resort events, the heart of Holi in Kerala remains rooted in tradition. The heart of the Kerala Holi Festival is still about renewal, kindness, and starting over with a lighter spirit.
Manjal Kuli: The Heart of Holi in Kerala
About Manjal Kuli
Manjal Kuli, which literally means “turmeric bath,” is Kerala’s traditional version of Holi. Instead of colored powders, people use turmeric water. The celebration is rooted in temple rituals and community gatherings, especially in parts of North Kerala where Konkani communities settled centuries ago.
Significance
Turmeric has always symbolized purity, healing, and protection in Indian culture. Applying turmeric water in Manjal Kuli is believed to cleanse negative energy and usher in a new beginning. It marks renewal, forgiveness, and the arrival of spring in a gentle, meaningful way.
How It Is Celebrated
The celebration usually begins after temple rituals. People gather in courtyards or open spaces and sprinkle turmeric water on one another. There is singing, simple music, laughter, and shared food. The mood is joyful but never overwhelming. It feels intimate, almost like a family gathering rather than a public festival.
Suggested Read: Holi Celebration in Vrindavan
Top 6 Holi Events and Celebrations in Kerala (2026)
1. Sunburn Reload Holi 2026 — Kochi
This is one of the largest organised Holi parties in Kerala. Expect a high-energy mix of vibrant colors, DJs, music, and dancing. It’s more of a party vibe with color play than the traditional festival.
- Where: Venue to be announced
- When: 14 March 2026
- Timings: 4 PM Onwards
- Ticket Price: 560 INR Onwards
- Crowd Level: High
- Who It’s For: Party lovers, EDM fans, young travellers, social groups
2. Balam Pichkari—Kochi’s Holi Party
A popular social Holi event in Kochi is often held at the Crowne Plaza. People bring colors and celebrate with music and dancing. It's a ticketed event that locals and travelers enjoy.
- Where: Crowne Plaza Kochi
- When: 7 March 2026
- Timings: 4:00 PM Onwards
- Crowd Level: High
- Who It’s For: Urban crowd, couples, working professionals, travellers
3. IMF Holi-Day ’26—Le Méridien Kochi
A themed Holi event at a hotel setting. Expect food, music, colors, and a more relaxed, organised party atmosphere.
- Where: Le Méridien Kochi, Maradu
- When: 15 March 2026
- Timings: 3:00 PM Onwards
- Tickets: Start from 499 INR to 3999 INR
- Crowd Level: Medium
- Who It’s For: Families, relaxed party-goers, hotel guests
4. The Artiste Kochi Holi Celebration - Forum Kochi
Forum Kochi’s vibrant Holi event at The Artiste Kochi brings music, colors, and community energy together in one place. Expect live DJ sets, free colors and water guns, and a lively party vibe that’s perfect if you want a social celebration with friends or family.
- Where: Forum Mall, Kochi
- When: 14 March 2026
- Timings: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Crowd Level: Medium to High
- Who It’s For: Shoppers, families, casual crowds, first-time Holi players
In areas like Mattancherry in Kochi, you’ll find local Holi celebrations where communities (including locals and foreigners) come together in the morning to play with colors and dance near temples. Many travelers join these open-to-all celebrations.
- Where: Temple areas around Mattancherry & Fort Kochi
- When: 2 March 2026
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Crowd Level: Low to Medium
- Who It’s For: Cultural travellers, photographers, spiritual visitors
6. Manjal Kuli at Konkani/Kudumbi Temples
f you want the more traditional side of Holi in Kerala, the Manjal Kuli Festival around Konkani and Kudumbi community temples (e.g., in Gosripuram, Kochi) offers a turmeric-based color ritual rather than modern powder play.
- Where: Gosripuram Thirumala Devaswom & Kudumbi temples, Kochi
- When: 2 March 2026
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Crowd Level: Low
- Who It’s For: Culture lovers, families, slow travellers, tradition seekers
What to Expect on Holi Day in Kerala: A Timeline
Holi in Kerala is slow, social, and peaceful. Here’s how the day usually flows.
Early Morning (7–9 AM)
Manjal Kuli begins at the Konkani & Kudumbi temples in Kochi, where people start with turmeric water play. Women sing folk songs and splash yellow water.
- Mood: Calm and cultural
- Crowd Level: Low to medium
This is the heart of traditional Holi in Kerala.
Late Morning (9–11 AM)
Community & Hostel Holi: In Fort Kochi, Varkala, and Kovalam, hostels start color play. Music is soft. People laugh, dance, and take photos.
- Mood: Friendly and social
- Crowd Level: Medium
This is where travelers feel most welcome.
Afternoon (11 AM–3 PM)
Holi Parties & Hotel Events: Big events like Sunburn Reload Holi, Holi brunches in the hotel, and mall celebrations take place.
- Mood: Party-style, colourful, music-driven
- Crowd Level: Medium to high
Evening (4 PM Onwards)
Wind Down & Sunset: People clean up, sit by the sea, visit cafes, and relax. Some go for evening temple visits.
- Mood: Peaceful and reflective
- Crowd Level: Low
Holi in Kerala ends quietly, not loudly.
How to Attend Holi in Kerala in 2026
Experiencing Holi in Kerala in 2026 is very different from North India. This isn’t loud street Holi or massive crowd chaos. Kerala’s Holi is calm, cultural, and spread across small events, temples, hostels, and beach towns.
Planning helps you find the right places to visit in Kerala and enjoy the festival respectfully and safely. Knowing where to go and what to expect makes all the difference.
How to Reach Kerala for Holi
Kerala is well-connected to the rest of India and the world. You can get there by air, train, road, or bus, depending on your comfort level and where you're coming from.
By Air – Fastest & Easiest
Flying is the quickest way to reach Kerala for Holi 2026.
Kerala has three major airports:
• Cochin International Airport (COK) – Best airport for events in Kochi, Fort Kochi, Varkala, and central Kerala.
• Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) – Best choice if you plan to celebrate near Varkala or Kovalam.
• Calicut International Airport (CCJ) – Good for north Kerala travel.
There are direct flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, and many international hubs to all these airports.
Once you land, cabs, taxis, and rideshare apps like Uber/Ola can take you to your final destination.
By Train—Comfortable & Scenic
The Indian Railways provides excellent connectivity to Kerala. Major stations in Kerala are:
• Ernakulam Junction (Kochi) – Best for Holi parties and central Kerala travel.
• Thiruvananthapuram Central – Great if you’re heading to Varkala, Kovalam, or Trivandrum areas.
• Kozhikode – Good connectivity if you’re coming from the north.
• Kottayam – Useful for backwater or hill region plans.
Trains run from all major cities, like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. Booking early is smart, especially around festival dates.
By Road – Flexible & Budget-Friendly
Kerala has excellent road connections through national highways like NH 66, NH 44, and NH 544.
You can choose:
• Government buses (KSRTC)—Frequent and cheaper.
• Private long-distance buses—Volvo and sleeper options available.
• Self-drive or cab – Flexibility to stop wherever you want.
Road trips from neighboring states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh are scenic and worthwhile, though they take longer than flying or train travel.
Enjoy Reading: Holi in Barsana 2026 – Ultimate Guide to Lathmar Holi Festival
Getting Around Kerala During Holi
Kerala doesn’t have one single Holi street zone like Barsana. Celebrations are spread out across cities, beaches, temples, hostels, and hotels. That means smart planning matters more than brute energy.
Walking is best around local Holi events, temple courtyards, Fort Kochi lanes, and beach areas like Varkala. Roads near event venues can get slow with traffic and parked vehicles, so walking saves time and stress.
Local transport options:
• Auto-rickshaws – Best for short hops
• Uber / Ola – Easy in Kochi, Trivandrum, Calicut
• Local taxis—Good for night returns
• KSRTC buses—Cheap, but slow on festival days
Autos and cabs fill fast around Holi events. Booking return rides in advance through your hotel or hostel avoids last-minute panic.
What this really means: During Holi in Kerala, move slowly and smartly. Walk where you can. Pre-book where you can’t.
Where Can I Stay in Kerala During Holi?
Base yourself where Holi actually happens: Kochi, Varkala, or Kovalam.
Best Stays in Kochi (For Parties and Culture)
• Le Meridien Kochi – Great for IMF Holi-Day kind of events and comfort
• Crowne Plaza Kochi – Popular venue for Holi parties
• Taj Malabar Resort – Calm, premium stay near Fort Kochi
• Brunton Boatyard (CGH Earth) – Heritage stay near temple areas
• Zostel Kochi – Budget and social vibe for young travellers
Best Stays in Varkala (For Beach and Backpacker Holi)
• Zostel Varkala – Hostel Holi parties and great crowd
• The Lost Hostel Varkala – Chill, social, and central
• Clafouti Beach Resort – Mid-range beachside option
• Hindustan Beach Retreat – Comfortable with easy beach access
Best Stays in Kovalam/Trivandrum (For Relaxed Holi)
• Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel – Resort Holi vibes
• The Leela Kovalam – Premium, peaceful, ocean views
• Beach Florra Inn – Budget-friendly and close to action
Tip: Stay close to where your Holi event is. Long travel kills the mood.
Must-Try Delicious Food During Holi in Kerala
Holi in Kerala isn’t centered around heavy sweets. The food here is lighter, fresher, and meant to cool you down in the coastal heat.
• Tender Coconut Water—Your best friend in the heat
• Banana Fritters (Pazham Pori)—Crispy, sweet snack
• Sadhya (Kerala Veg Feast) – Rice with many small dishes
• Appam & Stew – Soft rice pancakes with coconut curry
• Avial – Mixed vegetable dish with coconut
• Fresh Lime Juice—Simple, refreshing, everywhere
Keep your meals light and drink water regularly. The March heat, mixed with hours of sunshine and color play, can dehydrate you faster than you expect.
Suggested read: Holi celebration in Mathura
Pro-Travel Tips for Holi Festival in Kerala 2026
Kerala celebrates Holi in a relaxed, friendly, and colorful manner. Unlike in North India, Holi here is softer and spread across temples, beaches, hostels, and party venues. You still need to plan smart to enjoy it without stress.
Booking stays early, choosing the right events, and understanding Kerala’s gentle Holi style will make your experience smooth and memorable.
Book Early: March is peak season in Kerala. Hotels in Kochi, Varkala, and Kovalam fill fast around Holi. So, it's wise to book your stay early for Holi in Kerala 2026.
Plan Your Events:
Kerala has two types of Holi:
• Traditional Manjal Kuli temple celebrations
• Modern Holi parties in Kochi & beach towns
Choose what you want to attend and check timings in advance.
Know the Vibe:
The Holi celebration in Kerala is respectful and calm. No aggressive color fights. Expect music, smiles, turmeric water, and gentle color play.
What to Pack:
Old Clothes: Wear light cotton clothes you don’t mind staining. White works well for photos.
Skin & Hair Protection: Apply coconut oil to hair and skin before color play. It helps colors wash off easily.
Protective Gear: Sunscreen is a must. Sunglasses or a scarf protects your eyes and face.
Essentials: Carry:
• Water bottle
• Hand sanitiser
• Cash
• Power bank
• Waterproof phone pouch
- Play Safely: Use natural colors or turmeric-based manjal. Avoid chemical powders.
- Respect Boundaries: Always ask before applying colour to someone. Kerala Holi is about consent and comfort.
- Know the Timings: Most Kerala Holi events peak from late morning to mid-afternoon.
- Manage Crowds: Stick to open spaces, beaches, temple courtyards, and event venues. Avoid pushing through tight lanes.
- Stay Hydrated & Eat Light: Drink coconut water and lime juice, and eat light Kerala snacks.
- Avoid Valuables: Leave jewelry, watches, and big cash at your hotel.
- Avoid Rough Play: Kerala Holi Party scenes are fun, not wild. Don’t encourage heavy drinking or unsafe behavior.
- Clean Up Smart: Shower with mild soap. Don’t scrub hard. Natural colors come off easily.
- Rest & Slow Down: Kerala Holi ends gently. Watch the sunset, eat something sweet, and relax.
Most Active and Happening Holi Places in Kerala
If you’re wondering where the celebrations actually happen, they’re not spread randomly across the state. Holi in Kerala is usually centered around specific pockets, temple courtyards, beach stretches, hostel communities, and city venues that host curated events.
• Fort Kochi temple areas
• Varkala cliff hostels
• Kovalam beach shacks
• Ernakulam hotel venues
Places to Avoid
- Empty rural zones (no Holi there)
- Random street crowds without events
- Aggressive party zones if you want cultural Holi
Safety Notes for Attending an Epic Holi in Kerala
Holi in Kerala is calm compared to North India, but it still brings crowds, colors, and excitement. A little planning keeps things fun, safe, and stress-free.
What are the safety tips for women & children during Holi in Kerala?
• Avoid overcrowded street corners and unknown groups.
• Choose temple courtyards, hotel events, hostel parties, or beach gatherings.
• Always stay in a group. Don't wander alone in new areas.
• If a place feels uncomfortable, leave calmly and go somewhere open.
• Carry basic safety items and keep your phone charged.
Special Tips for Families
• Don’t try to cover too many places in one day.
• Pick one safe event and enjoy it slowly.
• Set a clear meeting point in case anyone gets separated.
• Prefer Manjal Kuli temple celebrations or resort events for a gentle Holi.
• Stay close to your hotel or main event area to avoid long travel.
What are the safety tips for first-time travelers during Holi in Kerala?
• Learn the Holi in Kerala 2026 dates and local event timings in advance.
• Book your stay and transport early. March is busy in Kerala.
• Understand the vibe: Kerala Holi is soft, respectful, and community-based.
• Balance your day between cultural events and relaxed beach or café time.
Special Tips for Solo Travellers during Holi in Kerala
• Celebrate at organized events, hostels, or temple gatherings.
• Share your location with someone you trust.
• Avoid isolated beaches or empty lanes late at night.
• Stay in well-reviewed hotels or hostels in central areas.
• Keep your plans simple and your movement visible.
Suggested read: Holi in Rishikesh
Holi in Kerala 2026: An Experience Where Colour Meets Calm Joy
The Holi celebration in Kerala is more than just playing with colors. It’s a gentle, joyful, and soulful experience that blends nature, tradition, and togetherness. From the turmeric-filled Manjal Kuli rituals at community temples to relaxed beachside parties and city events, every moment reflects Kerala’s peaceful way of celebrating life.
Whether you are a cultural lover, a slow traveler, or simply someone who wants to experience Holi in Kerala in 2026 in its most meaningful form, this festival will stay with you long after the colors fade. You leave with more than photos. You leave with warmth, calm memories, and the feeling that you celebrated not just a festival but a way of life.
