The Thirunakkara Arattu is a grand annual festival held at the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple in Kottayam district, Kerala. This ten-day festival, celebrated from the first day of the Malayalam month of Meenam (March-April), concludes with the ceremonial Arattu, or holy bathing, of the deity, Lord Mahadeva.

The highlight of the festival is the Arattu procession, featuring nine caparisoned elephants, which are adorned with elaborate decorations and traditional parasols. These majestic elephants, accompanied by drummers and dancers, lead the procession to the temple tank for the ritual bath of the deity. The event is a visual spectacle that draws a large number of devotees and visitors to the temple grounds.

During the festival, the temple courtyard becomes a vibrant hub of cultural activities. Folk arts like Mayilattom (peacock dance) and Velakali are performed, capturing the attention of the audience with their colorful and energetic displays. Additionally, Kathakali performances, a classical dance-drama of Kerala, are held throughout the night on the third and fourth days of the festival, adding to the traditional charm of the celebrations.

The festival's origins are rooted in the region's history. The area was once ruled by the Thekkumkoor kings, one of whom prayed for Lord Vadakkumnathan (a form of Lord Shiva) to accompany him to Kottayam due to his old age. Following a dream, he met a learned Brahmin priest who discovered a Shiva Linga (idol) buried in the earth at the current temple site. The king built a temple to house this Linga, which is now known as the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple. The temple also enshrines idols of Lord Subramanya, Lord Ganesa, a Panchaloha idol of the Goddess, and Lord Ayyappa.

The temple is located on Thirunakkara Hill, known locally as Nakkara Kunnu, which translates to Sacred Nakkara Hill. The architectural beauty of the temple, with its intricate carvings and traditional Kerala style, adds to the spiritual ambiance of the festival.

Thirunakkara Arattu Utsavam is a highly regarded temple festival in Kerala, attracting approximately 1,500 participants annually. The festival's events and programs include the elephants’ parade, percussion music, Kathakali performances, Velakali, Mayilattom, and various cultural programs. These activities not only celebrate the divine presence of Thirunakkara Mahadeva but also showcase the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.

The festival is easily accessible, with the Thirunakkara Bus Stop just 250 meters away and the Kottayam Railway Station 1.9 kilometers from the temple. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, located 81.6 kilometers away.

Thirunakkara Arattu is more than just a religious event; it is a celebration of community, tradition, and cultural pride. It brings together people from all walks of life, creating a vibrant and joyous atmosphere that reflects the spirit of Kerala's festive traditions. For those looking to experience the essence of Kerala's cultural and religious heritage, the Thirunakkara Arattu at Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple is an event not to be missed.