Onam is a vibrant festival celebrated in Kerala, India, marking the annual harvest and the return of the legendary King Mahabali. It’s a joyful occasion for Malayali Hindus, symbolizing the start of their New Year. During this time, many people travel back to Kerala from different parts of India to celebrate with family and friends.
To facilitate increased travel during the Onam festivities, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has introduced 90 additional bus services. These additional buses will operate from September 2 to 4, just before the main Onam celebrations on September 5, ensuring that travelers can return home smoothly.
According to reports from The Hindu, this temporary increase in bus services will make journeys more convenient for passengers during this busy period. The special buses will mainly leave from major bus terminals in Bengaluru, such as the Mysuru Road Bus Station and Shanthinagar Bus Station. They will provide connections to key destinations in Kerala, including Kannur, Kozhikode, Ernakulam, Palakkad, Thrissur, Kottayam, and Thiruvananthapuram.
KSRTC Will Also Have Pre-Onam Services On September 7
Alongside the pre-Onam services, the KSRTC has arranged return journeys following the festival. On September 7, special buses will depart from various cities in Kerala, providing a convenient way for travelers to return to Bengaluru after celebrating the holiday with their families.
Besides this, the South Western Railway (SWR) has introduced special express trains to accommodate the expected increase in passenger numbers during the festive season. These trains will connect Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) in Bengaluru to Thiruvananthapuram North, operating from August 11 to September 16. This initiative aims to offer more travel choices for commuters going to and from Kerala during the busy holiday season.
How Is Onam Celebrated
Onam festivities span ten days across Kerala, beginning on August 26 and concluding on September 5 in 2025. A highlight of the celebration is the pookalam, elaborate floral patterns created at home entrances, with fresh flowers added daily to symbolize growth and pay homage to King Mahabali.
Besides this, people relish Onam Sadhya. The Onam Sadhya features a lavish vegetarian feast served on banana leaves, showcasing various dishes like rice, sambar, avial, and desserts, fostering a sense of community and love. Additionally, Vallam Kali, or boat races, adds excitement to the celebrations.
