Thrissur’s soul runs deeper than its poorams, majestic waterfalls and temples
. The presence of the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi, Kerala Lalithakala Akademi and Kerala Sahitya Akademi shows the robust art and culture temper of the district.
. The presence of the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi, Kerala Lalithakala Akademi and Kerala Sahitya Akademi shows the robust art and culture temper of the district.
. The presence of the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi, Kerala Lalithakala Akademi and Kerala Sahitya Akademi shows the robust art and culture temper of the district.
Thrissur is synonymous with the vibrant annual festival of ‘pooram’, a heady mix of revered customs, the choicest percussion ensembles, a parade of caparisoned elephants, riveting fireworks, and cultural essence. This central district is so distinct that each vista has a unique shade and feel. But the region has a lot to offer beyond the ‘poorams’ and temple rituals to discerning travellers. The district is dotted with many mind-blowing spots that reflect the pristine beauty of nature, besides the majestic Athirappilly waterfall, which is the pride of Thrissur. Let’s take a peek into what’s in store in Thrissur.
No wonder Thrissur is known as the cultural capital of the state as it’s riddled with historic temples, churches, mosques and heritage places. In a nutshell, the district is an amazing tapestry of tradition, culture and religion, and embodiment of state’s heritage. The presence of the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi, Kerala Lalithakala Akademi and Kerala Sahitya Akademi shows the robust art and culture temper of the district.
A dazzling walk through elephant camps, palaces and hills
A festival in Thrissur devoid of decked up elephants cant’ be imagined even in the wildest dreams. You can find a number of elephant camps in the district that take care of the jumbos with great finesse. The Punnathur Kotta, which is 2km from the Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple, was once a palace that now houses an elephant camp on its premises. The elephants of the Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple are nurtured and given rejuvenation treatment at the Punnathur Kotta elephant sanctuary. Some of the iconic scenes of the Mammootty-starrer Malayalam flick ‘Oru Vadakan Veeragatha’ were canned here.
Deluge of waterfalls
If you love to get splashed in an ice-cold waterfall, then Thrissur is the right place for you. The waterfalls in the district won’t be a dampener for anyone who loves scenic and thundering cascades. There are three important waterfalls, including the Athirappilly waterfalls, where many Hollywood movies and the well-received film ‘Bahubali’ were shot.
• Athirappilly waterfall
Even before the Athirappilly waterfall was featured in the ‘Bahubali’ movie, this was a sought-after spot in Kerala. But after the film had hit the theatres, the fame of the waterfalls had crossed borders. It’s no exaggeration that the waterfall, which is 52.7km away from the city centre, is a visual treat for your eyes. It's Kerala's largest and is located in Athirappilly panchayat. The huge cascade is part of the Chalakudy River, which originates from the Sholayar mountain ranges of the Western Ghats. You can reach the mesmerising spot after travelling for 33km on the Anamala road. You can get tickets to enter the Athirappilly area from the Sholayar check post.
• Vazhachal waterfall
This waterfall is located just 5 km from Athirappilly and 36 km from Chalakudy town. You can visit both Athirappilly and Vazhachal waterfalls in one day. You will reach this amazing waterfall after travelling through a road that has lush green vegetation on both sides. Entry in the monsoon season is restricted as the water level can swell without any warning.
• Charpa waterfalls
The Charpa waterfalls are 60km away from Thrissur, and it’s a sight to behold as water plummets from a height of 70ft. The best time to visit this falls is in the rainy season. You can reach quite close to the water by walking through the narrow bridge across the waterfalls.
Treading a pious path
Thrissur, known as the ‘cultural capital’ of Kerala, is blessed with numerous historically significant temples, churches, and mosques. Several religious sites in Thrissur should not be missed.
• Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple
The grandiose temple with architecture par excellence is situated in Thrissur township limits and 25.7km from the city centre on the northwestern side. While coming from the eastern side, you can also visit the Devasom Museum. The Punnathur Kotta, an elephant camp, is 3 km from the temple. It has also been featured in numerous movies.
• Vadakkumnathan Temple
The Vadakkumnathan Temple and ‘pooram’ festival go hand in hand and cannot be separated at any cost. The traditional architecture of the temple, situated at the heart of the city, bears the UNESCO stamp and has received the Asia-Pacific Heritage Award. The temple, one of the oldest in Kerala, is situated in the sprawling Thekkinkadu Maidanam, where thousands of people converge to witness the Pooram festival.
• Koodalmanikyam Temple
This age-old temple, built in the 15th century, is located in Irinjalakuda, approximately 21 km from Thrissur. The temple is part of the ‘nalambala darshanam’, a holy expedition to four temples dedicated to Lord Rama and his brothers. The temple is also known for its architectural marvels, which include awe-inspiring gateways, a round-shaped sanctum sanctorum, a magnificent ‘Koothambalam’ (temple theatre), and artistic carvings on stone and wood.
• Cheraman Juma Masjid
The Cheraman Juma Masjid is considered the first mosque in India. The mosque, which is in Kodungallur, was constructed during the reign of the Chera dynasty. The distance between Thrissur city and Kodungallur is 35km.
• St. Mary’s Forane Church
The St. Mary’s Forane Church is an important church in the Thrissur district. The church, also known as Koratty Muthy Church, was constructed in the 14th century and refurbished in 1987. The annual festival of Koratty Muthy in October is the main attraction of the church.
Other prominent places of worship include Nelluvaya Dhanwanthari Temple, Kurumba Bhagavathy Temple, Triprayar Sree Rama Temple, Thiruvilwamala Sree Vilwadrinatha Temple and Lourdes Cathedral, among others.
Beauty of lakes
Undoubtedly, Kerala is a state that was crafted from nature’s bounty. Thrissur is also lavishly dotted with lofty mountains and hills, verdant forests and sparkling waterfalls. The backwaters and lakes can bowl over any tourist. An evening spent on the cool shores of the lakes can soothe both body and mind.
• Chettuva Lake
Alappuzha can be termed the ‘land of lakes’, but Thrissur too won’t disappoint you if you love lakes. The Chettuva Lake is located on the east side of the bridge near Vadanappally, when travelling from Thrissur to Guruvayoor. The lake is home to Kerala’s largest mangrove forest. The visitors can go on a boating spree on the lake. It is worth noting that Chettuva was once a thriving trading port.
• Enamavu Lake
The serene Enamavu Lake is 20km from Thrissur city. You can reach the lake by bus or train without any hassles.
Now, the wild side
The wildlife sanctuaries are the best option to learn more about forests and wild animals. Many people come to these spots to escape the madding crowd and be in nature. Thrissur too has its own share of places where one could be at peace with the wild side of nature.
• Chimminy Wildlife Sanctuary
The Chimminy Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Mukundapuram taluk of Thrissur district. The expansive green patch of land, home to numerous wild animals, is located on the western slope of the Nelliyampathy Hills. The sanctuary is home to many animals facing the threat of extinction. Chimminy is 25km away from Palappilly. You can take the Palappilly road on the Ernakulam-Thrissur national highway to reach the wildlife sanctuary. You can find a dam across the Chimminy River. People with a valid entry pass can enter the forest area. Trekking enthusiasts can have a great time at Chimminy.
• Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary
The Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is the second oldest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. The facility is located in the catchment areas of Peechi and Vazhani dams. The sanctuary, located 20 km east of Thrissur, houses a diverse array of flora and fauna, including 50 varieties of orchids, 25 different species of animals, and some rare and endangered species.
Beaches galore
There are many beaches in Thrissur where you can unwind and watch the sun set on the western horizon. Let’s take a lowdown on beaches in Thrissur.
• Munakkal Beach
The charming Munakkal beach, the largest beach in Thrissur, is 7 km away from Kodungallur town. The beauty of the beach goes a notch higher with the presence of the casuarina trees.
• Snehatheeram Beach
The spick and span Snehatheeram beach, which is around 30km from Thrissur, is also known as the Thalikulam beach. It features a children’s park where children can have a great time. People coming to the beach can relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Other beaches worth visiting include Natika Beach and Chavakkad Beach.
Scale the heights
If you're into mountains and hills, Thrissur can provide the perfect dose of adrenaline rush. The feeling of standing atop a hill after trekking through pathways posing too many challenges is unparalleled. Here’s a list of hills that can capture your imagination.
• Vilangan Hills
The Vilangann Hills are approximately 7 km from Thrissur and are suitable for people of all ages. Many rides are in place for children. The Asoakvanam, a repository of medicinal plants, is a major attraction of the Vilangan hills. The medicinal plants were planted with the cooperation of Kerala Medicinal Plants Board, Vilangan Trekkers’ Club and Asokavanam Samithi. Another highlight is the four viewpoints that can take your breath away with some stunning views.
• Kalashamala
Kalashamala is an ecotourism village spanning 2.64 acres of land, featuring numerous temples. It is also known as Narimadakunnu and Kallayikunnu. Many films had been canned here, including the Mohanlal-starrer ‘Thoovanathumbikal’. The region has a significant presence of Kulavetti trees, which help conserve water resources. Children’s Park, three viewpoints, and caves believed to have once been homes of hermits are other attractions.
• Cheppara Rock Garden
The Cheppara Rock Garden, which is situated in the Thekkumkara panchayat near Vadakkancherry, is a relatively unknown spot in Thrissur. It’s one of the best spots to soak in nature’s raw beauty. You can also indulge in trekking and bird watching. Many ‘muniyaras’, believed to be shelters of sages, could also be found here.
A royal treat
The palaces, museums and forts give you a peek into a bygone era.
• Sakthan Thampuran Palace
A major landmark of Thrissur is the Sakthan Thampuran Palace, which served as the summer residence of the erstwhile Kochi kingdom. The palace at the heart of the city showcases the history of Thrissur, which is closely connected with Sakthan Thampuran and the dynasties. Visitors can get a glimpse of household utensils made of copper, bronze, and wood, as well as coins and Chinese jars used by the royal family. The tomb of Sakthan Thampuran could also be found on the palace premises. The palace is a traditional Kerala-style ‘Nallukettu’ that combines elements of Kerala and Dutch architecture. The castle was reconstructed in 1795, and later, the archaeology department renovated and converted it into a museum. The palace is open on all days except Monday, and the visiting hours are from 10 am to 6 pm.
• Kollengode Palace
This historical palace is situated in Kollengode, 57 km from Thrissur. The palace was constructed at the orders of Kollengode King Vasudeva Raja in 1904 and later given as a gift to his daughter. The palace was converted into a heritage museum by the Archaeology Department in 1975. Presently, the palace serves as an Ayurveda wellness centre.
Welcome to dams
Dams have significant tourism potential, and many of them have become popular tourist destinations too in Thrissur. Let’s check out the dams in the district.
• Peechi Dam
The Peechi dam, originally built for irrigation purposes, has become a major tourist destination in Thrissur. The dam, located 23 km away from Thrissur, is built across the Manali River. The Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is near the dam. It’s better to visit the dam when its shutters are opened to release water. The dam, which is embraced by thick forest, is a sight to behold.
• Vazhani Dam
The Vazhani Dam, located near Vadakancherry, is an ideal spot to spend a day with family or friends. The beauty of the dam is augmented by the presence of lofty hills and verdant forest in the vicinity.
• Chimminy Dam
The scenic Chimminy Dam can keep any tourist engrossed, and is situated in Echipara, which is part of the Mukundapuram taluk. It is adjacent to the Chimminy Wildlife Sanctuary. The forest department has established facilities such as trekking and bamboo rafting for visitors.
A blast from the past
The remnants of the past have always been a point of interest. Thrissur is home to numerous monuments and museums that offer a glimpse into the past.
• Kudakallu Parambu
Kudakallu (Umbrella Stone) Parambu is a prehistoric megalithic burial site located in Cheramanangad, Thrissur district. The monuments are spread across a small area and are close to 4,000 years old.
• Ariyannur Kudakallu
Ariyannur Kudakallu (umbrella stones) is a megalithic burial site located in Ariyannur, Kandanassery panchayat, Thrissur district. This is part of the Kudakallu Parambu.
Thrissur also has a zoo and an Ayurveda museum.
• State museum and zoo
The museum and zoo are spread across 13.5 acres of land in Chembukavu, which is 2km away from the Thrissur district. It’s noteworthy that the Thrissur zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the country. One of the two most important zoological parks is located in Thrissur. The Natural History Museum was established in 1964.
• Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Museum
The museum is situated in Thycattussery, approximately 9 km away from Thrissur. It chronicles the rich history of Ayurveda in detail for the visitors. The museum also boasts a digital library and has portraits and sculptures of many Ayurveda exponents.