Thrissur is the cultural capital of Kerala, famous for classical Keralan performing arts, religious sites and the world famous Thrissur Pooram festival, Onam festival and Vadakkumnathan Temple. The festivals are the major attraction for tourists.
Thrissur is officially well known as the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur is famous for encouraging classical Keralan performing arts, religious sites and the world famous Thrissur Pooram festival, Onam festival and Vadakkumnathan Temple. Thrissur was the capital of the Kingdom of Kochi. The name Thrissur is the short form of Thiru-Shiva-Per-Ur which literally means “the city with three temples of Lord Shiva”.
Thrissur is the place from where Kerala gets a fair share of its festive glitters. The festivals celebrated in Thrissur are the major attraction for tourists. Other tourist attractions in Thrissur include the Vadakkumnathan Kshetram Temple, Tomb of Shakthan Thampuran, Archaeology Museum, Athirapally Falls, Heritage Garden and many more.
During April and May, the city hosts the Thrissur Puram, the world's largest and grandest elephant parade, which has great cultural and religious importance and draws tourists from all over the globe. The city is also famous for its shopping markets, clothes to jewellery there are a lot of options for shopping and dining.
Vadakummnathan Temple, Thrissur
The Temple has collection of beautiful Mural paintings, out of which some are more than 400 years old, this massive 1000 year old temple and historical structure is famous for the Nataraja Mural near its main gate.
The shrine of Vadakkumnathan is also situated there, which is apparently covered completely under ghee for centuries, without any incidence of melting.
The shrines of Mahavishnu and Shankaranarayan are also located in the temple. The temple has one of the largest Dance Hall, called Koothambalam which showcase unique Keralan architecture, and hosts traditional performances called Nangyar Koothu. The Temple is strictly open to only Hindus and Non-Hindus are not allowed inside, but they can stand outside and look at the photos from there.
Thrissur Zoo, Thrissur
Thrissur Zoo and the State Museum is situated in the middle of Thrissur city, Kerala. The zoo was started in the year 1885, the zoo covers an area of 13.5 acres. The zoo houses a wide variety of animals, reptiles, birds and fauna. In the zoo there is a Zoological Garden, Botanical Garden, a Natural History Museum and an Art Museum, showcasing the socio-cultural heritage of the region. The ideal time to visit Thrissur Zoo is in the winter season from October to March.
Basilica of Our Lady of Dolores, Thrissur
Basilica of Our Lady of Dolores has murals on its walls and ceilings, this Roman Catholic Minor Basilica has the largest church interior in South India built in 1875. It is locally famous by the name of Puthen Palli. It is has a 140 ft long steeple, which is visible from everywhere in the town.
Thrissur Pooram, Thrissur
Thrissur Pooram is an annual Hindu temple festival of Kerala which is held for a week every year in April - May at Vadukkannathan Swamy temple. A unity of 10 temples that are established as two groups Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu, celebrate the festival with a display of innovative fireworks and elephant caparisons. Being considered as the largest festival in Asia that's secular in nature, Thrissur Pooram is a festival that you must see.
Thriprayar Temple, Thrissur
Triprayar Sri Rama Temple is an ancient temple which is dedicated to Lord Rama and is situated in Triprayar, Thrissur. The idol of Lord Rama, here hold's a conch, a disc, a garland, and a bow within his four arms. Triprayar temple is famous between the people as it frees people from the evil spirits by making offerings to please Thriprayarappan. Festivals are celebrated here are Pooram and Ekadasi which are in March-April and November-December respectively. Lord Ayyappa is taken out in parade with 21 elephants during the Ekadasi Festival and it is a must see moment.
Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Museum, Thaikkattussery
Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Museum located in Thaikkattussery in the district of Thrissur, the Museum is one of its kind in Kerala. Museum Showcase's a picture of the traditional growth that Ayurveda has seen over the years and the work that has been put in by the Acharyas towards the advancement of science over the years.
The Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda museum showcases a captivating journey to the tourists beginning from the Vedic era during which Ayurveda was recognized through the development eras of Samhita and Samgraha and then ultimately to the present day with the help of scriptures, pictures, and sculptures.
The large library present here is another highlight of the museum which shows the old manuscripts of Ashtavaidyas and other literature and scriptures on Ayurveda. There is also an audio-visual shows and presentations on Ayurveda, a digital theatre also has been developed with a collection of CDs related to Ayurveda placed in the library.
Best time to visit Thrissur
The best time to visit Thrissur is during the winters, from October to March. But, one must try visiting during one of the festivals. In the month of April or May, when the famous Thrissur Pooram festival is celebrated. Thrissur also hosts the Pulikali during Onam celebrations in August or September.
Conclusion
Thrissur, is has a number of offbeat tourist places, which offers an unique travel experience. From the magnificent Thrissur Pooram festival to the beautiful waterfalls and beaches, this city has something to offer every tourist. By visiting Thrissur and experiencing the cultural heritage, wildlife attractions, architectural wonders, and indulging in its food, art, and festivals, one can create memories which will last for lifetime. So, pack your bags and move on a journey to experience the beauty of Thrissur.
