Thrissur
The 'Cultural Capital' of Kerala

Area: 3032 sq. km.  Population: 2,734,333  Altitude: Sea level

Thrissur, constituting the central region of Kerala, is rich in history, cultural and archaeological remains, is called the cultural capital of Kerala. The region has played a significant role in the political history of South India since ancient times Tipu Sultan of Mysore, and Europeans including the Dutch and the British have had a hand in moulding the destiny of this region. Raja Rama Varma popularly known as Sakthan Thampuran was the architect of the present Thrissur town. Thrissur is world famous for its Pooram festival. A cultural centre, the Kerala Kala Madalam (Art), the Kerala Sahitya Academy (Literature) and Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy (Music & Dance) are located here.

Vadakkunathan Temple: One of the most ancient temples in the state, the Vadakkunathan temple contains many decorative wall paintings and historically important pieces of art. The temple itself, with its thick mansonry walls and lofty gopurams is a classic example of the Kerala style of architecture. Exquisite wooden carvings can also be seen in the central shrines. The Pooram Festival here, is celebrated in April- May, on a grand scale.

Guruvayoor: It is one of the most sacred and imported pilgrim centers of Kerala. Its main attraction is the Sree Krishna temple known as 'Guruvayoor Ambalam'. This historic temple is shrouded in mystery. According to belief, the temple is the creation of Guru, the preceptor of the Devas, and Vayu the Lord of Winds. The eastern nada is the main entrance to the shrine. In the chuttambalam (outer enclosure) is the tall 33.5 mt. high gold plated Dwajasthambam (flag post). There is also a 7 mt. high  Deepasthambham (pillar of lamps), whose 13 circular receptacles provide a truly gorgeous spectacle when lit. The square Sreekovil is the sacred sanctum sanctorum of the temple which houses the main deity. Within the temple there are also images of Ganapathy, Sree Ayyappa and Edathedathu Kavil Bhagavathy.

Arattupuzha: It is famous for the Arattupuzha Pooram Festival held in March - April every year. During this festival, idols of deities from 46 neighboring villages are brought to the temple at night in procession on caparisoned elephants. This colourful festival attracts a large number of people from different parts of the state.

Athirampilly Waterfalls: It is near to the entrance of the Sholayar range is a place of great scenic beauty. Here, the water plunges from a height of nearly 80 feet before joining the Chalakudi river. Vazhachal is just a drive from Athirampally, this picturesque spot is adjacent to Jense green forest, and is a part of Chalakudi River..

Cheruthuruthi: The Kerala Kalamandalam established by the Poet Sri. Vallathol Narayana Menon in 1930, to impart training in traditional art forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Thullal and Folk Dances is located here. Special performances can also be arranged on request.

Chimmoni Wildlife Sanctuary: Established in 1984, the Chimmoni Wildlife Sanctuary lies   contiguous to the Peechi-Vazhani sanctuary, it is endowed with scenic beauty and a rich and varied wildlife. Elephant, sambar, gaur, Malabar squirrel, sloth bear etc. can be seen here.

Vilangankunnu : This beautiful hill near Thrissur is a good picnic spot.

Archaeological Museum : Located on the Town Hall road, the museum's picture gallery has an interesting collection of mural paintings from all parts of the state .
Timings: 10.00 hrs. to 17.00 hrs. Closed on Mondays and National Holidays

Zoo & Art Museum: Located at the Public Gardens, the zoo is noted for its reptile house. The art Museum inside the zoo compound has a good collection of wood carvings, metal sculptures and ancient jewellery.
Timings: 10.00 hrs. to 17.00 hrs. Cosed on Mondays

Irinjalakkuda Koodal Manikam Temple: This temple is situated         10 Km. away from Irinjalakkuda railway station. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Bharatha, the brother of Lord Sree Rama. It is perhaps the only temple in India with Bharatha as the deity. The colourful annual festival with thirteen caparisoned elephants is held for eleven days in April-May every year. Festivals in this temple mark the end of the Hindu temple festival season in Kerala.

Peechi dam: This picnic spot offers boating facilities. There are frequent private buses from Thrissur to Peechi Dam.