Palani Rathotsavam is the annual chariot festival organized
in the Palani Murugan Temple in Thai month. Three different types of chariots are
pulled during the 10-day festival. The chariots are pulled on the 6th and 7th
day of the festival. Palani Temple main Chariot festival 2026 date is February 1. It is observed during Thaipusam (February 1, 2026). As per schedule, the Palani Thaipusam festival 2026 is from January 26 to February 4.
Kavadi of various types are offered to Murugan at Palani
temple during the period.
On the 6th day, there is procession of Lord Muruga with
Valli and Deivanai in the Silver Car. During this, Kavadi dance and rural
musical-dance are performed.
On the 7th day there is "Thai Theru" (wooden Car)
and thousands of devotees participate in this.
10-day Thaipusam Festival Dates At Palani Murugan Temple
January 26, 2026
Flag hoisting or kodiyettam in morning
Puducherry Chaparam at night
January 27, 2026
Thantha Pallakku in morning
Silver Chariot at night
January 28, 2026
Thantha Pallakku in morning
Silver Chariot at night
January 29, 2026
Thantha Pallakku in morning
Silver Chariot at night
January 30, 2026
Thantha Pallakku in morning
Silver elephant at night
January 31, 2026
Thantha Pallakku in morning
Thirukalyanam at night - Divine Wedding
Silver Chariot at night
February 1, 2026
Tholukkiniyan Vahanam - Shanmuga Nadhi Ezhuntharulal - Theertham Koduthal in morning
Thiru Ther Ezhuntharulal at noon
Thiruther Vadam Piditham at evening - Therottam
Thantha Pallakku at night
February 2, 2026
Thantha Pallakku in morning
Golden Horse at night
February 3, 2026
Puducherry Chaparam in morning
Golden Peacock at night
February 4, 2026
Puducherry Chaparam in morning
Float Festival at night
Festival concludes with lowering of the flag