2026 ലെ മഹത്തായ പൈങ്കുനി ഉത്സവം കേരളത്തിലെ ഏറ്റവും ആരാധനാർഹമായ ക്ഷേത്രങ്ങളിലൊന്നായ Sree Padmanabhaswamy Templeയിൽ മാർച്ച് 24 മുതൽ ഏപ്രിൽ 2 വരെ (1201 മീനം 10 മുതൽ മീനം 19 വരെ) ആഘോഷിക്കപ്പെടുന്നു. ഭക്തിയും ആചാരങ്ങളും സമ്പന്നമായ സാംസ്കാരിക പാരമ്പര്യവും സമന്വയിക്കുന്ന ഈ വാർഷിക ഉത്സവം, ആയിരക്കണക്കിന് ഭക്തരെയും സന്ദർശകരെയും തിരുവനന്തപുരത്തേക്ക് ആകർഷിക്കുന്ന ഒരു വിശിഷ്ട ആത്മീയ ആഘോഷമാണ്.
പങ്കുനി ഉത്സവം 2026 | ശ്രീപദ്മനാഭസ്വാമി ക്ഷേത്രം തിരുവനന്തപുരം | Painguni Utsavam 2026 | Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Trivandrum
The festival begins with the auspicious Thrikkodiyettu on March 24, marking the commencement of ten days of elaborate rituals conducted under the guidance of esteemed Tantris and priests. Each day starts early with Palliyunarthal and Nirmalyadarshanam, followed by traditional poojas, Kalashabhishekam, and Utsava Sreebali rituals held in the evening. The temple premises come alive with spiritual energy as devotees participate in these sacred ceremonies.
One of the major highlights of the festival is the Valiya Kanikka on March 31, where grand offerings are made to the deity. The eighth day also features the spectacular Velakali, a traditional martial dance performed in the temple courtyard, symbolizing scenes from the Mahabharata. The ninth day is marked by the ceremonial Pallivetta (royal hunt ritual), representing the symbolic victory of good over evil.
The festival concludes with the grand Aarattu procession on April 2 at Shankhumukham Beach. The deity is taken in a majestic procession accompanied by traditional music, caparisoned elephants, and temple rituals, culminating in the holy bathing ceremony in the Arabian Sea. This visually stunning event is a must-experience for devotees and tourists alike.
Now, a number of priest carry the idols in special Vahanams placed on their shoulders. Six kinds
of vehicles are used for these processions. These are the Simhasana Vahanam (Throne), Anantha
Vahanam (Serpent), Kamala Vahanam (Lotus), Pallakku Vahanam (Palanquin), Garuda Vahanam
(Garuda) and Indra Vahanam (Gopuram). Of these, the Pallakku and Garuda Vahanas are repeated
twice and four times respectively. The Garuda Vahanam is considered as the favourite conveyance of the
Lord.
Panguni Utsavam 2026 | Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Trivandrum
In addition to the rituals, the festival hosts a variety of cultural programs at venues like Kizhakke Nada, Sreepadam Mandapam, and Thulabharam Mandapam. Classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, and Kuchipudi, along with Kathakali performances at the temple’s Natakashala, enrich the spiritual atmosphere every evening. Bhajans, classical music concerts, and Thiruvathira performances further add to the festive charm.
The Painkuni Festival is not just a religious event but a cultural celebration that showcases the rich traditions of Kerala. The beautifully illuminated temple surroundings, devotional fervor, and artistic performances create a mesmerizing experience, making it one of the most significant temple festivals in the region.
EVENTS/PROGRAMS
• Kodiyettu
• Mula Pooja
• Mannuneeru Kora
• Pallivetta
• Aarattu Procession
• Ulsava Kalasam
• Sreebali
• Velakali
Temple Location
📍 Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, East Fort, Thiruvananthapuram - 695023 Kerala.
Accessibility
🏙️ Nearest Town/ Landmark/ Junction: East Fort - 200 m
🚌 Nearest Bus Station: East Fort Bus Stand - 200 m
🚂 Nearest Railway Station: Trivandrum Central Railway Station - 1.4 Km
✈️ Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport - 4.1 Km
Contact
📞 +91 471 2450 233, +91 471 2466 830 Temple
+91 471 2464606 Helpline
📧 info@sreepadmanabhaswamytemple.org