THRISSUR

Known as the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur has rich history, cultural heritage and archeological wealth. The word Thrissur is derived from the word ‘TIRU-SHIVA-PERUR’ (the town with the name of Lord Shiva).

From time immemorial, Thrissur has played a significant role in the political history of South India. Thrissur’s rise as a toem of importance is attributed to raja Rama Varma, popularly known as “Sakthan Thampuran”. Today Thrissur is world famous for its Pooram festival.

Places of Attraction

Art Museum: The art museum is within the zoo compound has a good collection of wood carvings, metal sculpture and also a wonderful collection of traditional Kerala lamps.

Town hall: It houses the picture gallery where mural paintings from all parts of Kerala are on display.

Vadakkunathan Temple: Vadakkunathan temple is one of the oldest temples in the state is a classic example of the Kerala and pieces of art. The temple contains the sacred shrines of Lord Paramashiva, Parvathy, Sankaranarayana, Gananpathy, Sri Rama and Sri Krishna. Legend goes that this temple was founded by Parasurama. This is the venue of the world famous POORAM festival celebrated annually in April-May. The fireworks at the Pooram are a spectacular sight.

Guruvayur: Guruvayur is among India’s most important pilgrimage centers and is also known as the Dwaraka of the south. The main attraction here is the Sri Krishna Temple which is said to date prior to the 16th century. This historic temple is shrouded in mystery. Tradition has it that the temple was created by Guru - the preceptor of Devas and Vary - the lord of winds. The temple is dedicated to Krishna known here as Guruvayurappan or the Lord of Guruvayur, and the idol is said to have been worshipped by Lord Brahma himself at Dwaraka. Several offerings are made to the deity here from the simple offering of flower to the expensive and elaborate, offering of bananas, sugar, jaggery or coconuts. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple.

Punnathoorkotta: At Punnathoorkotta you can be a spectator to 50 temple elephants at a time. Nowhere else can so many elephants be visualized at any one time.

Cheruthuruthy: Cheruthuruthy is the seat of the Kerala Kalamandalam, home of the renowned repository of the tradition of the Kathakali dance form. The music and dance academy was founded by the famous poet, Vallathol Narayana Menon. It is in this academy that the best of Kerala’s Kathakali performers, musicians, dramatists and other traditional dance artists are mo9lded cultural programmers are also arranged.

Athirapally and Vazhachal Waterfalls: Athirapally and Vazhachal are the most famous waterfalls of Kerala which attract tourists in plenty. At the entrance to the Sholayar forest ranges is this picturesque waterfalls.

Saint Thomas Memorial, Kodungallor: St. Thomas is believed to have landed in Kodungalloor in 52 AD. The St. Thomas Church established by him houses ancient relics.

Koodalmanickam Temple, Irigalakuda: This is the only temple in India designed and constructed based on Hindu art and architecture. It was built in AD 629 and resembles a temple in appearance.