Kerala’s festive calendar is full of color, music, spirituality, and tradition. As 2025 winds down, the next few months bring a beautiful string of holidays from the spiritual energy of Navaratri, to the reflective peace of Gandhi Jayanti, to the brightness of Diwali, and the warmth of Christmas.
And where better to celebrate these moments than Kumarakom, the serene backwater village on the banks of Vembanad Lake? Whether you are looking for quiet reflection, cultural immersion, or simple family time, Kumarakom is a perfect match for the season.
Upcoming Holidays in Kerala (2025)
Here are the major upcoming holidays in Kerala for the rest of 2025:
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22 September to 1 October 2025: Navaratri / Durga Puja / Pooja Holidays
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2 October 2025 (Thursday): Gandhi Jayanti & Vijayadashami
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21 October 2025 (Tuesday): Diwali
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25 December 2025 (Thursday): Christmas Day
Holiday Calendar Table
| Date(s) | Day(s) | Holiday / Festival | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22 Sep – 1 Oct 2025 | Mon → Wed | Navaratri / Pooja Holidays | Religious / Cultural |
| 2 Oct 2025 | Thursday | Gandhi Jayanti & Vijayadashami | National / Religious |
| 21 Oct 2025 | Tuesday | Diwali | Religious / National |
| 25 Dec 2025 | Thursday | Christmas Day | Religious / National |
How to Spend Each Holiday in Kumarakom
Navaratri / Pooja Holidays (22 Sep – 1 Oct 2025)
Kumarakom during Navaratri is a haven of calm, ideal for balancing temple visits with backwater serenity.
Day 1: Arrive, enjoy a light Kerala lunch, visit a local temple to witness evening pooja rituals, then relax with a sunset boat ride.
Day 2: Start with early morning bird watching, explore nearby villages and crafts, enjoy an Ayurvedic massage, and take part in evening bhajans or aarti.
Day 3: Begin with yoga by the lake, enjoy a slow breakfast, and take a final canoe ride before departure.
Gandhi Jayanti & Vijayadashami (2 Oct 2025)
A day of reflection and renewal pairs beautifully with Kumarakom’s quiet waters.
Early morning yoga or meditation by the lake.
Backwater cruise and visit to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
Explore local markets and villages in the afternoon.
End with a simple dinner and a quiet evening.
Diwali (21 Oct 2025)
Diwali here is more about soft light than noise. Imagine glowing diyas reflected on still waters.
Visit local markets to see decorations and lamps.
Evening backwater cruise to watch diya-lit homes and temples.
Feast on local sweets and enjoy a quiet celebration with minimal fireworks.
Next morning, wake up to sunrise birdwatching and end the trip with a canoe ride or spa session.
Christmas (25 Dec 2025)
Kumarakom is a wonderful Christmas getaway for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Visit beautifully decorated churches with colonial architecture.
Enjoy Christmas Eve dinner with traditional Kerala dishes.
Spend Christmas Day leisurely with backwater boating, bird watching, and lakeside dining.
Why Choose Kumarakom for Your Holiday
Kumarakom is one of those rare destinations that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and pure relaxation. The calm of Vembanad Lake is perfect for people who want to step away from the noise of daily life. The mornings are filled with bird calls and mist over the water. Afternoons can be spent floating on houseboats or exploring narrow canals that weave through lush green villages. Evenings bring glowing sunsets that paint the sky orange and pink.
Kumarakom is also deeply tied to Kerala’s traditions. Local temples and churches often host special ceremonies during holidays. Village life moves at a gentle rhythm, giving visitors a taste of authentic Kerala hospitality. Food is another highlight. From fresh Karimeen (pearl spot fish) cooked in traditional style to classic vegetarian Sadhya meals, there is plenty to indulge in.
It is also a wellness destination. Ayurveda centers offer massages and therapies that have been practiced for centuries. Many visitors time their trips to include a full rejuvenation program. If you enjoy photography, Kumarakom’s backwaters, birds, and landscapes offer endless opportunities.
In short, Kumarakom is a place where you can celebrate, relax, and recharge at the same time.
Best Stay in Kumarakom: Illikkalam Lakeside Cottages
For an authentic Kumarakom experience, Illikkalam Lakeside Cottages is one of the best places to stay.
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Lakeside location means you wake up to rippling waters of Vembanad Lake.
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Traditional Kerala cottages offer privacy and peace.
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Easy access to backwater cruises, bird sanctuary, and village walks.
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Calm, friendly atmosphere makes it ideal for meditation, Ayurveda treatments, and quiet evenings.
Whether it is Navaratri devotion, Diwali lights, or Christmas cheer, Illikkalam makes it easy to immerse yourself in the spirit of each festival while staying close to nature.
Would you like me to design a visual holiday calendar inside this blog post so readers can see the dates at a glance in a colorful format? It would make it more engaging for sharing online.