The ceremonial procession of the Ezhara Ponnana takes place on the eighth night of the annual temple festival, making it one of the most eagerly awaited moments of the celebrations. The festival concludes on the tenth day with the sacred Aaraattu ceremony, observed under the Thiruvathira asterism. Decorated elephants, accompanied by the resonant rhythms of Kerala's traditional temple percussion ensembles, create an atmosphere of grandeur and devotion throughout the festivities.
According to temple tradition, the revered golden elephants were presented as an offering to Lord Mahadeva by the Travancore ruler Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma. Crafted from jackfruit wood and adorned with nearly thirteen kilograms of gold, these treasured idols are securely preserved in the temple treasury and are brought out for public viewing only once each year during the annual festival.
The Ezhara Ponnana Darshanam, held around midnight on the eighth festival day, is regarded as the spiritual highlight of the celebrations. Devotees believe that witnessing this rare ceremonial display brings divine blessings and good fortune. The magnificent sight of the sacred golden elephants, together with richly caparisoned elephants, traditional temple music, and centuries-old rituals, offers visitors a memorable glimpse into Kerala's enduring religious traditions and vibrant cultural heritage.