The Pandalam Mahadeva Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrates its annual 10‑day festival during the Malayalam month of Dhanu (around December–January), known locally as the Aarattu Mahotsavam. This grand celebration begins with the traditional kodiyettam (flag hoisting) and features daily rituals, special pujas, cultural performances, and community gatherings. Villagers from the surrounding 12 karakal (local hamlets) actively participate, adding to the festive spirit that fills the temple precincts along the banks of the Achankovil River.
During the festival, one of the most spectacular events is the Kettukazhcha procession, where tall, colourfully decorated temple structures and effigies are paraded through the streets to rhythmic traditional music and dance. The festival culminates with the Aarattu ceremony, a sacred ritual bath of the deity’s idol in the river, symbolising purification and divine blessing for devotees. Alongside the main rituals, cultural programs such as Elam, Ganamela, traditional dance, and drama performances entertain visitors and reinforce community unity and devotion.