Thrissur Kerala

Let's talk about Kerala's culture and tradition. Welcome to the holy land of temples !!

Thrissur is located at the heart of Kerala and is better known as Kerala's cultural capital. This city, spread over an area of 102 sq. km. (approx.), is world famous for its renowned temples. It is named after the three temples of Lord Shiva in the region (Punkunnam Siva temple, Kottapuram Siva temple and Vadakkunnathan temple). Thrissur (Tri Siva Perur) literally means “the land with the religious name of Lord Shiva”. It is considered the holy birth place of the great Hindu saint Adi Shankaracharya. Thrissur has been a great learning centre for Sanskrit and is popular for its unique traditions and culture.

Attractions

Vadakkunnathan temple is the major centre of attraction. The temple was established by Parasurama and is devoted to Lord Shiva. This temple is an excellent example of typical Kerala architecture. It has shrines of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvathy, Lord Rama, Lord Ganesha and Lord Krishna. It is considered the biggest temple of the place. All major holy activities, pujas and festivals are celebrated in this temple.

Thrissur Pooram festival, the biggest attraction of Thrissur, is the most colourful temple festival of Kerala and is celebrated with fireworks and elephants. The festival is celebrated around Vedakkunnathan temple (Shiva temple) during April-May. The place is bedecked with flowers, colorful dresses and caparisoned elephants (elephants decorated with flowers and ornaments) and people enjoy cultural dances and art forms.

Another unique festival is Puli Kali which is celebrated three days after Onam. People get their bodies painted in stripes like that of tigers and perform traditional dances. The festival is also called as Kaduvakali.

Shakthan Thampuran or Raja Rama Varma is known as the architect of the city. Another major tourist spot is Shakthan Thampuran Palace. It is also known as the Vadakkekara Palace. The palace, built in Kerala-Dutch style, is a museum to preserve the tradition of the ancient Hindu rulers of Kerala.

During a trip to Thrissur, you can also visit the Kerala Kalamandalam. It is the most popular cultural centre of Thrissur. Basically, Kerala Kalamandalam is an esteemed university which imparts training in major classical dances like Kathakali, Mohiniyattom, Thullal, Bharatanatyam, Koodiyattom, Kuchipudi, Kathak etc.

Some other attractions of Thrissur are the Art Museum, Kerala Sahitya Academy and Chimmini Dam. If you want to explore Thrissur's masterpiece of architecture and designing, you can visit the Sacred Heart Latin Church and Mart Mariam Big Church.

Trade

Thrissur is considered as the Gold Capital of India. The largest gold transaction in India is done in Thrissur. More than 70% of Kerala's jewellery is made here alone.

The city is a great player in Textiles, Diamond Polishing and Automobile Tyre Moulding too.

Flora And Fauna

The city is surrounded by evergreen mountainous ranges. These dense forests are the habitat for various wild animals. The place receives a moderate rainfall, and vegetation is thick with herbs, shrubs and coconut palms. Marine life is also rich and you can find a variety of aquatic animal species here.

Shopping

Thrissur is the cultural capital of Kerala, so its specialty lies in arts and crafts. On a trip to Thrissur, don't forget to buy the unique silk sarees and jewellery. Thrissur is also famous for coir products, coconut shell crafts, horn carvings, woodcarvings and brass works. You can shop for a variety of carpets and floor coverings. Thrissur is popular for the Kathakali dance masks too.

Climate And Best Time To Go

The South-West monsoon period starts from Mid of June, but the climate is tropical in nature throughout the year. Summers are sometimes hot and monsoon humid. The temperature varies from 20-30 degrees. The period between October and March is best for vacations in Thrissur.

How To Commute

Thrissur is just 55 km from Cochin International airport. Apart from this, Nedumbassery airport is 58 km. Thrissur railway station is on the prime route of South Kerala, which connects it to all the major cities of South India. Besides, Thrissur has a KSRTC bus stand and is located on NH-47 & NH-17.