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About Thrissur

Officially known as the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur is famous for fostering classical Keralan performing arts, religious sites and the renowned Onam festival, Thrissur Pooram festival and Vadakkumnathan Temple. Thrissur which has also been known as Trichur is from where Kerala gets a fair share of its festive glitter and dynamic and sound instances of classical arts. Thrissur is sure to cast a spell on you with its colourful chants ringing with a rich Keralan culture. The festivals celebrated here are the major attraction for tourists and a visit to Thrissur is incomplete without witnessing these. Other tourist spots in Thrissur include the Vadakkumnathan Kshetram Temple, Tomb of Shakthan Thampuran, Archaeology Museum, Athirapally Falls, Heritage Garden and many more.

Place to must visit in Thrissur


Places to Visit in Thrissur

Travellers are preffering these places in Thrissur

Experience Time: 6-7 hours

Distance: 47 kms

Athirapally Falls

Located 60 km from the Thrissur district of Kerala, Athirapally Falls is a marvellous cascade of frothy waters that makes its way from the Anamudi mountains of the Western Ghats. This 80 ft high and 330 ft wide marvel is situated at the entrance of the Sholayar ranges and is often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India". From here, the Athirapally falls flows through the verdant greenery of Vazhachal Forest toward the Arabian Sea, creating a spectacular vista of scintillating water, emerald jungles and azure sky. When you land in Athirapally, you are greeted with the sight of charming green Sholayar Peaks peering over the rushing gush of the falls. Standing against the backdrop of a rustling jungle foliage, the scenery is as picturesque as it can get. Bird lovers cannot miss this place, for it is the only place in the Western Ghats where four endangered Hornbill species are seen. There is a pool above the falls where you can relax and unwind. To get a view of the waterfall, one needs to get down from the mountain for about 100 meters. Another interesting fact to note is that the fall joins forces with the Chalakkudy river before reaching its final destination into the sea. Owing to its scenic beauty, it is one of the most popular picnic spots in Kerala. There are a couple of water theme parks on the way to Athirappilly called Silver Storm and Dream World and many resorts as well.

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Distance: 0 kms

Vadakummnathan temple

With a collection of beautiful Mural paintings, some of which are more than 400 years old, this gigantic 1000 year old temple and historical structure is famous for the Nataraja Mural near the main gate. The structure till date, displays its original colors without much preservation. 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. It features one of the largest Dance Hall, called Koothambalam which depict unique Keralan architecture. It hosts traditional performances called Nangyar Koothu. Just outside the temple complex are situated the Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple and Paramekkavu Devi Temple, which are considered to be the sister temples of Vadakummnathan. This Temple is strictly open to Hindus. Non-Hindus are not allowed inside, but they can stand outside and look at the photos from there.

Experience Time:

Distance: 47 kms

Charpa Falls

Charpa Falls is another one of the nature's delight that displays the blessings of Mother Nature. Cascading down from a shot height, this fall which is a part of River Chalakkudy offers a breathtaking experience. Athirappilly Falls and Lake Vachumaram are a stone's throw away from Charpa Falls.

Experience Time:

Distance: 22 kms

Heritage Garden

This Heritage Garden lying in the heart of the city is famous for housing many rare species of flora. It is a well manicured garden and is quite popular among locals and tourists as a picnic spot.

Experience Time: 1-2hrs

Distance: 48 kms

Vazhachal Falls

There are tree shades and sitting arrangement built around is a good place to relax with friends and family. The rocky falls are really a must visit spot. Vazhachal Falls is a popular picnic spot. Quality time can be spent here with the family. The place is located at a distance of 60 km from Thrissur city and 5 km from Athirapilly Falls. Vazhachal Falls have dense forests of Sholayar ranges surrounding. During its course on rocky terrain, River Chalakkudy gives out in three branches, which resume its flow surrounding the small islands formed by the riparian forests. These three branches gather momentum on its downward course and plummet to the rocky bed of River Chalakkudy to re-unite.

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Distance: 6 kms

Vilangan Kunnu

Converted into an amusement park, this once-upon-a-time private hillock is famous for its breath taking sun-rise and sun-set views. It draws locals as well as tourists who enjoy climbing its rolling heights for morning exercise. Maintained by the Thrissur District Tourism Promotion Council, the entry to the park and parking comes at a very nominal fee.

Experience Time: 2-3 hrs

Distance: 0 kms

Shakthan Thampuran Palace

Shakthan Thampuran Palace situated in the town of Thrissur marks the royal residence of the king of Cochin and has been a famous tourist attraction because of its historical value. Popularly known as Vadakkekara Palace, its heritage value and dates back to the time of the King of Cochin named Rama Varma Shakthan Thampuran. The king was a very generous ruler, and the duration of his reign was known as the 'Golden Age of Kochi'. The beautiful palace with an amalgamation of Kerela and Dutch style of architecture is worth laying eyes on and should not be missed out on if on a trip to Thrissur. The striking palace consists of a shrine for the God of serpents known as Serpent Grove (Sarpakaavu). Numerous species of flora and fauna can be spotted too in the heritage garden present inside the premises. If one can seek prior permission, they can easily spend a family picnic in the vast and stunning lawns of the palace. The Shakthan Thampuran Palace comes under the control of the archaeological department of the state and was converted into a museum in 2005. The museum consists of various unique bronze and granite sculptures, coins, inscription plates, utensils used by the royals and currency used in the Kochi dynasty. Various antiques belonging to the stone age are also on display. Apart from the museum, there is also a shrine for serpent gods called as Sarpakaavu, an archaeological garden and a heritage garden in the palace complex. The enchanting architecture is sure to be a treat for history aficionados and culture buffs.

Experience Time: 1-2 hrs

Distance: 17 kms

Peechi Dam

Peechi Dam lies at a distance of 23 km from Thrissur. The dam is the main irrigation project of this town of Kerala. It is a very famous attraction, and visitors come here now and then for the fantastic picnic spot it serves as and for the boating facilities which are offered at this reservoir. One can also come across Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary here which is a must-visit place for the nature-lovers. The dam is constructed across the Manali River. The dam is spread across an area of 3200 acres. When it was completely built in 1957, it could irrigate up to 17555 Ha of land present in Mukundapuram, Thrissur, Thalappally and Chavakkad Taluk. Peechi Dam also supplies drinking water to the town of Thrissur. Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary situated near the dam is worth paying a visit. It was built in 1958 and covers an area of 125 square km. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Ponmudi with a height of about 923 m is the highest peak in the sanctuary and experiences an average rainfall of about 3000 mm.

Experience Time: 2-3 Hrs

Distance: 1 kms

Thrissur Zoo

Formerly known as the Trichur Zoo, Thrissur Zoo and the State Museum is located in the heart of Thrissur city, Kerala. Started in the year 1885, the attraction covers an area of approximately 13.5 acres. The zoo houses a wide variety of animals, reptiles, and birds. Besides the extensive variety of fauna, the zoo has many other attractions to fascinate you. There is a Zoological Garden, Botanical Garden, a Natural History Museum and an Art Museum, showcasing the socio-cultural heritage of the region. The Art Museum located in Thrissur Zoo has an exquisite collection of wood-carvings, metal sculptures, Kathakali figures, ancient jewellery and a wonderful collection of traditional Kerala lamps. It also has some historical items like swords, jewellery, rocks, stuffed butterflies, etc. Some of the animals found here are tigers, lions, deer, sloth bears, monkeys, hippopotamus, camels, pink flamingos, mithun of the north-eastern hills, and lion-tailed macaques. There is a special building within the zoo compound which is an abode for snakes alone. It has a reptilian collection of King Cobras, Cobras, Python, Kraits, Vipers and Rat Snakes. Thrissur Zoo provides an opportunity to head out for an educational yet exciting trip with your family. The attraction promises to make your day memorable with the beautiful charm of nature and Kerala’s rich history.

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Distance: 1 kms

Basilica of Our Lady of Dolores

With murals on its walls and ceilings, this 1875-built Roman Catholic Minor Basilica has the largest church interior in South India. It is adorned with 140 ft long steeple, which is visible from anywhere in the town. The chapel has 15 altars and boasts of neo Gothic spires. It is locally famous by the name of Puthen Palli.

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Distance: 22 kms

Chavakad Beach

A sea shore adorned with rare scenic beauty, the Chavakad beach is renowned as being one of the best beaches along the West Coast.

Experience Time: 2-3 Hrs

Distance: 24 kms

Kerala Kalamandalam

Kerala Kalamandalam, situated in the village of Cheruthuruthy in Chelakkara of Thrissur District on the banks of the Bharathapuzha River is a Deemed University of Arts and Culture in Kerala. Established as a major centre for revival and uplifting of traditional performing art forms, especially those with their roots in South India. Visitors can not only look around the place and take in its ethereal natural and man-made beauty but also converse with the masters and students and take snapshots of all the lovely memories. It is not allowed to strike up a conversation with a practising or performing student as it is considered as an insult to the art form. However, the staff will guide you along every detail of the culture you want to know. The institute is devoted towards the preservation of classical Indian dance forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Kudiyattam, Thullal, Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, and Nangiar Koothu, besides the traditional orchestra called Panchavadyam and instruments like Chenda, Maddalam, Mridangam and Mizhavu. It was established with a vision in mind of the founders that the institution will bring forth and uphold over the time the values these forms of art. Kerala Kalamandalam is a place of education in these art forms and training is imparted to those interested with utmost sincerity and authenticity. Though a very limited number of people is allowed inside this hallowed establishment, those who do visit stay witness to an enriching experience of true, unadulterated Indian classical art forms of music and dance.Kerala Kalamandalam, situated in the village of Cheruthuruthy in Chelakkara of Thrissur District on the banks of the Bharathapuzha River is a Deemed University of Arts and Culture in Kerala. Established as a major centre for revival and uplifting of traditional performing art forms, especially those with their roots in South India. Visitors can not only look around the place and take in its ethereal natural and man-made beauty but also converse with the masters and students and take snapshots of all the lovely memories. It is not allowed to strike up a conversation with a practising or performing student as it is considered as an insult to the art form. However, the staff will guide you along every detail of the culture you want to know. The institute is devoted towards the preservation of classical Indian dance forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Kudiyattam, Thullal, Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, and Nangiar Koothu, besides the traditional orchestra called Panchavadyam and instruments like Chenda, Maddalam, Mridangam and Mizhavu. It was established with a vision in mind of the founders that the institution will bring forth and uphold over the time the values these forms of art. Kerala Kalamandalam is a place of education in these art forms and training is imparted to those interested with utmost sincerity and authenticity. Though a very limited number of people is allowed inside this hallowed establishment, those who do visit stay witness to an enriching experience of true, unadulterated Indian classical art forms of music and dance.

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Distance: 12 Kms

Arattupuzha Temple

Located close to Thrissur city, the popular Arattupuzha temple houses Lord Ayyappa as the presiding deity. Thousands of people throng the temple especially during the annual Arattupuzha Pooram Festival.

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Distance: 1 kms

Archeological & Art Museum

Located in the heart of Thrissur, this Archeological Museum houses a huge and valuable collection of mural and relics from Kerala. Thousands of people throng its exhibits to take a detour into Kerala's rich ancient past.

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Distance: 48 kms

Chalakkudy river

Chalakkudy River in Thrissur is the Fourth longest river in Kerala. It is also one of Kerala??s rare rivers that have naturally preserved riparian vegetation, i.e., plant habitats and communities along the river margins. This vegetation is famous for its evergreen nature.

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Distance: 1 kms

Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple

Various folklores and myths are associated with Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple. This ancient temple is thus serves as an important pilgrimage centre. Lord Krishna is the presiding deity at the Thiruvambady Krishna Temple.

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Distance: 3 kms

Shankara Samadhi

Surrounded by a breath-taking natural panorama, this Samadhi of Saint Adi Shankaracharya is one of the most famous pilgrim destinations of Hindus in Thrissur.

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Distance: 33 kms

Thiruvilvamala

Located to the north of Thrissur, Thiruvilvamala village is famous for its Vilwadrinatha temple and many other ancient temples located there.

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Distance: 3 kms

Appan Thampuran Smarakam

Now a cultural museum, the Appan Thampuran Smarakam was established in the year 1976 by Sri. Ramavarma Appanthampuran. Situated at Ayyanthole, the place is famous for its amazing collection of journals, magazines and books etc. It is mainly a cultural and literary museum set up at the Kumarapuram Palace.

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Distance: 0 kms

Paramekavu Bhagavathy Temple

Paramekavu Bhagavathy Temple is one of the biggest Bhagavathy temples in Kerala and plays a major role in the Thrissur Pooram. The temple is enshrined with the deity of Goddess Durga and is flocked by devotees throughout the year.

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Distance: 1 kms

Thrissur Puram

Thrissur is also famously known as “the cultural hub of Kerala”. With Raja Ram Verma taking on the mantle as the ruler of the Kochi kingdom in 1790, Thrissur saw a fresh awakening, as it saw some beautiful architectural changes, administrative ones (what with controlling the aggressive rule of powerful chieftains), and also cultural ones. Thrissur Pooram, the biggest Pooram, was his brainchild, in which people of all castes and backgrounds could participate. Thrissur witnesses a number of beautiful festivals like Pooram, Onam and Pulikakkali. The fact that big institutes like Kerala Sangeetha Natak Academy, Kerala Lalithakala Academy, and Kerala Sahitya Academy, are situated in Thrissur, indicates the intellectual kick that this city has. It is also home to big traders of Kerala. And if this does not interest you enough, you have to gorge on to the beautiful delicacies of Thrissur like Puttu (a breakfast dish where rice is grounded into a cylindrical bamboo container), Vellayappam (a dish made out of a batter of rice and coconuts), and Meen Porichathu (a famous fish recipe of this area).

Experience Time: 1-2 hours

Distance: 17 kms

Thriprayar Temple

Triprayar Sri Rama Temple is an ancient temple which is dedicated to Lord Rama and is situated in Triprayar, Thrissur. The prime deity worshipped in the temple is popularly known as Triprayarappan or Triprayar Thevar. The idol of Lord Rama can be seen here holding a conch, a disc, a garland, and a bow with his four arms. As per legends, it is believed that Lord Krishna worshipped the idol of Lord Rama. After the swargarohana of Lord Krishna, this idol was submerged in the sea and was later discovered by some fishermen in the sea near the Chettuva region of Kerala. This idol was then installed in a temple which was constructed at Triprayar by its local ruler - Vakkayil Kaimal. This temple also forms a part of the very famous Nalambala Darshana Yatra. The Thrirayar Temple is very rich in wood carvings and comprises of the Namaskara Mandapam facing the circular sanctum known as srikovil which has 24 panels of wood carvings and numerous ancient murals. There are several representations of the scenes from Ramayana displayed in the circular sanctum in the form of sculptures. The temple is famous for the fact that it frees people from the evil spirits by making offerings to please Thriprayarappan. Festivals are celebrated here with fun and frolic including Pooram and Ekadasi which fall in March-April and November-December respectively every year. Lord Ayyappa is taken out in procession with 21 elephants participating during the Ekadasi Festival in which people from all over the country become a part of the celebration.

Experience Time: Less than 1 hour

Distance: 31 kms

Chimmini Dam

The Chimmony Dam, popularly known as Chimmini Dam, is situated near a village named Echippara in Mukundapuram taluka of the Thrissur district. It is constructed across the River Chimoni which is a tributary of the Karuvannur River. The reservoir along with the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is surrounded by hills of the Southern Western Ghats thereby making the area appear natural and scenic. The dam was started in 1984 but was made fully functional and dedicated to the nation in 1996. The dam is also a very famous tourist spot apart from providing the water for irrigation. People visit this region to enjoy a relaxing picnic since the place offers recreational activities including trekking and boating through the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary. The Chimmony Reservoir, which is an artificial lake is created by the dam, is spread over an area of 10 square kilometres with a depth of 20 meters on an average. There are numerous rubber plantations in the valley which have now been replaced by the tropical rainforests of the region. The primary reason that the dam was constructed was to help in the irrigation of the land in the district of Thrissur. It was also proposed to use the dam to produce a hydroelectric power of 2.5 MW. However, this hydroelectric project is still in progress and does not generate the planned electric power yet. No canals have been constructed as a part of this irrigation project. There is just so much to learn and wonder about this place right from its beauty to the working of the entire system. It is a perfect place for you to unwind and break away from the routine of the city.

Experience Time: 1-2 hours

Distance: 36 kms

Thumboormuzhi Garden

Nestled in the Chalakkudy River glade while going towards the Athirappalli Waterfalls lies the Thumboormuzhi Dam and Garden. Situated in a mystic forest patch, this place is lesser known which makes it a treasure of the Thrissur district. Thumboormuzhi has almost everything to spice up your holidays - the dam, a butterfly garden, hanging bridge, and children's park. This natural habitat of the butterflies is believed to consist of almost all the species of butterflies in the world. If you are looking for time away from the noisy and monotonous schedule of yours to rest in the midst of greenery with serene surroundings, then Thumboormuzhi is the place for you. The park has around 148 species of butterflies which appear even more beautiful if you visit the place early morning. The biggest butterflies visit the park during the monsoon season which is an absolute treat for the eyes. Some of the commonly observed species of butterflies in the park include lemon butterfly, common rose, southern birdwing, dark blue tiger, and light blue tiger. To feed these butterflies, some of the plants grown in the region are Pagoda flower, flame or fire lily, Mexican heather, Heliotropium etc. The park also provides a river view, a view of the virgin forest, a beautiful garden, and a children's park. Some facilities provided to the tourists include a bathing ghat, washrooms, parking spaces, washrooms, and a DTPC restaurant to sit and relax.

Experience Time: 2-3 hours

Distance: 18 kms

Snehatheeram Beach

The Snehatheeram Beach situated in Thrissur is one of the most super-scenic beaches present here, and a trip to Thrissur without coming down here is incomplete with the sun, sand and the Arabian Sea all coming together in perfect harmony and descending upon the beach right in the middle of the coastline. It is when one sets foot on its coast that they realize the reason the beach is known as Snehatheeram (meaning love shore). It is impossible for the person coming here to not fall in love with the music of the sea waves hitting the against the shore softly while watching the sun disappearing in water. Situated at a distance of 3 kilometers from the Thalikulam Taluk of Thrissur and 30 kilometers from the town, it is a perfect setting for everyone who comes to spend time here. Kids can be seen playing in the sand and building sandcastles, couples come here to enjoy a refreshing romantic walk in the breezy atmosphere against the sea in the background, and families come here for a day of fun. The beauty of the beach attracts numerous national as well as international travellers from all over the world throughout the year. Many budding photographers also come here to capture the surreal beauty of the place. It is a place worth going to for offering yourself a break away from the busy and monotonous routine and look around at what beauty nature has to offer to us.

Experience Time: 1-2 hours

Distance: 10 kms

Peruvanam Temple

Located in Peruvanam, Thrissur, the Peruvanam Mahadeva Temple is one of the most famous temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The opulent temple comprises of two shrines namely 'Irattayappan Temple' on the North and 'Maadathilappan Temple' on the South of the main temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The dual Shivalinga is the unique feature of the Irattayappan Temple which is the reason why its prime deity is also known as Irattayappan denoting the duality. Madathilappan Temple's sanctum is considered to be the tallest one in South India. One of the most famous festivals which are celebrated in the temple is the Peruvanam Pooram. The Archaeological Survey of India has been protecting the temple since 1982. As per legends, after Saint Parashurama reclaimed Kerala from the sea, 64 Gramams were set up by him out of which Peruvanam Gramam was the most important one. Pooru Vanam, who was the son of the King of Hasthinapura Yayathy, is believed to have created the temple. It is also thought that while a Shivalinga was being transported after receiving it at a lake near Badrinath, it got stuck on the branch of a tree after which the Madathilappan Temple, which stands today, was built at that spot. The temple which sprawls over 7 acres of land and is surrounded by a compound wall follows the Kerala style of architecture. The sanctum sanctorum follows a square structure which is rarely seen in Indian temples. Also, the inner courtyard can be reached from two sides, i.e. east and west while the main entrance lies on the east. The Irattayappan shrine has been built on a circular base. Also, the Matatthilappan Temple is situated on the south and consists of three stories. Being one of the most prominent temple structures in Kerala, it should be given a visit. One is likely to get awestruck by the beauty of the temple and the peace that the surroundings provide.

Experience Time: 1-2 hours

Distance: 35 kms

Thiruvanchikulam Temple

One of the major Shiva Temples situated in Kerala, the Thiruvanchikulam Mahadeva Temple is more than 2000 years old. The capital of Cheru dynasty which ruled the place till the 13th century, this temple is believed to have been constructed by a legendary Chera King known as Cheraman Perumal. The temple is known for the depiction of Lord Shiva (who is the presiding deity) in various forms and also for other minor shrines dedicated to other Gods and Goddesses. The Thiruvanchikulam Mahadeva Temple has been given the oldest reference in the history of the ancient Tamil Sangam literature which clearly shows just how old the temple really is. This temple, due to its exquisite architecture and ancient references, is worth a visit for all the Traveller. Being one of the oldest Shiva Temples in South India, the Thiruvanchikulam Mahadeva Temple is where Lord Shiva is believed to reside with his entire family. It also has a healthy relationship with the Chidambaram Temple in Tamil Nadu. One of the main attractions of the temple is a Namaskara Mandapam with 16 pillars that are constructed in front of the Sreekovil. There are well-stored ancient murals here along with wood carvings and sculptures worth seeing. Various Palliyara Poojas are held in the temple before it closes down on full moon nights which are attended by millions of devotees.

Experience Time: 2-3 hours

Distance: 22 kms

Punnathur Kotta

With its sprawling 11.5 acres of land which is surrounded by green foliage all around, the exquisite Punnathur Kotta is the best example to depict the reason why Kerala is known as the 'Land of Elephants'. The jumbo elephants are the prime attractions of the place with around 60 of them kept here and taken care of. You are likely to come across an excellent and magical picture which is painted by the playing elephant along the scenic beauty around. The sight of the cute baby elephants running around and throwing water on each other is something worth being a part of. The male elephants in the group are trained for numerous religious proceedings that take place throughout the year, and if you are lucky, you might also be able to see them getting trained. The two significant rituals which are celebrated in the sanctuary every year include the Gajapooja which involves worshipping elephants and Anayottu which involves feeding elephants. On all the other usual days, the tourists can observe the elephants simply gazing in the surrounding lush green gardens. There is another eye-catching attraction in the vicinity of this sanctuary which is a 500 years old palace built by the local rulers known as Punnathur Raja's. The palace follows a traditional style of architecture of Kerala known as Nalukettu which is a design that is according to the climatic and geographical factors of the state. The palace comprises of a rectangular building with a sloping roof, a central courtyard which is open from the top and wooden carvings. The serenity of the place is worth visiting, and it is surely going to be your getaway from the din of the city especially for the nature lovers. So, if you are planning a trip to Thrissur, add this place to the must-visit places already!

Experience Time: 1-2 hours

Distance: 8 kms

Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Museum

Situated in Thaikkattussery near Ollur in the district of Thrissur, the Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Museum is one of its kind in Kerala. Showcasing a dioramic representation of the traditional growth that Ayurveda has witnessed over the years and the work that has been put in by the Acharyas towards the evolution of science over the years, the museum is a perfect place for all the people who have interest in this field of study. The museum provides a captivating journey to the tourists beginning from the Vedic era during which Ayurveda was discovered through the development eras of Samhita and Samgraha and then finally to the contemporary period with the help of scriptures, pictures, and sculptures. The museum comprises three blocks namely Acharya Gruham, the main museum complex, and a digital theatre which covers an area of 600 square feet in total. The Acharya Gruham is an ancient heritage structure which is 80 years old and is kept as a consulting room for E T Neelakandan Mooss. Sculptures of the great Acharyas are depicted in the complex along with their contribution to the development of Ayurveda. A diorama of the traditional procedures that are practised in Ayurveda along with a picture gallery and the collection of 300 medicinal plants provide an alluring experience to all the visitors. The huge library is another highlight which shows the old manuscripts of Ashtavaidyas and other literature and scriptures on Ayurveda. For audio-visual shows and presentations on Ayurveda, a digital theatre too has been designed with a collection of CDs related to Ayurveda kept in the digital library. Four guides along with a warden have been employed with the duty of providing an excellent service to the visitors. So, if you are planning a trip to Thrissur, do not miss out on the wonderful experience that this museum has to offer.

Experience Time: Less than 1 hour

Distance: 21 kms

St. Thomas Syro Malabar Church

Established in 52 AD by St. Thomas and situated in Palayur, St Thomas Church is the oldest one in India and one amongst the seven that were founded by St. Thomas the Apostle. Legend has it that after St. Thomas landed at Palayur, he came across some Hindu Brahmins at the Thaliyakulam offering prayers and chanting mantras to God in the form of Tharpanam to the sun god. Smiling at the sight of the Brahmins throwing water, he challenged them that the water that was being thrown by them was falling back into the tank instead of being accepted by the God. He told them that instead if he threw the water to his God, he would accept it and the water won't fall back in the tank. He also told them that if he won, of them would have to convert their religion and embrace Christianity. He performed this miracle after which the Brahmins got converted to Christianity. Some improvements were made to its surroundings during the 17th century without abandoning the originality of the place. However, after the development was completed and the priest gave a proper lecture, the old wooden structure was agreed to be knocked down by the local people. The original altar which was sanctified by St. Thomas is still present at the site. Since the church was built including an ancient Hindu temple which was abandoned, it follows a fusion of the Hindu architectural style and the Persian Church plan with the roof rising above the nave. Its entrance also resembles a Hindu Mandapa. The building was re-established in the 18th century after Tipu Sultan invaded Kerala and the church was wrecked by fire. The architectural significance and the history that the church boasts is enough to make one want to witness the place.

Experience Time: 1-2 hours

Distance: 20 kms

Koodalmanikyam Temple

Lush green trees on one side and beautiful temple ponds on the other, the Koodalmanikyam Temple is one of the most famous temples of Kerala which was built before the 15th century. Dedicated to Lord Bharatha, who was the brother of Sree Rama, this temple is an architectural wonder belonging to the ancient world with fresco paintings on the wall and four massive ponds in the courtyard. The temple consists of an outstanding gateway which depicts the ancient era in which it was built. The unique feature of this temple is that there is only one deity here known as Dhanwanthara Moorthy or Lord Bharatha who is well-known for his ability to cure even the most dangerous diseases of his faithful devotees. Brinhal Nivedyam is provided to the devotees by the temple after every prayer since it is believed to be very useful to cure the stomachache. All the other temples organise around five Poojas and three Seevelis in Kerala. However, in Koodalmanikyam Temple, only three Poojas and Seevelis are conducted during the arattu festival that is held every year. No other flower except the Lotus, Chethi, and Tulasi is offered to the deity inside.

Experience Time: 1-2 hours

Distance: 25 kms

Kauthuka Park

A place where you can discover your peace, be amazed at human persistence and be thankful for the simple gifts that nature has bestowed upon us including animals, birds, fish, and mankind is the Kauthuka Park. The park, which is nothing less than a place of wonders, is situated at Chalakuddy which lies on the way to the Athirappally Waterfalls in the district of Thrissur was founded by a simple farmer named Mr Varkey Veliyath. This serene place is spread over 1.25 acres of land and is developed in a way that visitors can drop by and enjoy the healing power of nature. This exquisite garden has a collection of a variety of plants and trees both medicinal as well as wild and even trees that are related to the zodiac. Another collection present here is that of the utensils and agricultural appliances belonging to the previous era adding to the charm of the place. The surrounding landscape comprises of streams, hills, caves, and varieties of medicinal plants and trees. The environment of this place allows even the sworn predators to peacefully co-exist and behave like obedient children following their master around, living and feeding on what is lovingly provided to them. The park does not resemble the plain and around it but makes one feel as if they have entered in through an isolated habitat of nature's best, with small caves and rivers, old ponds containing crystal clear water in which fish belonging to different sizes and varieties play hide and seek in the dark depths of the sea.

Experience Time: Less than 1 hour

Distance: 1 kms

Bible Tower

Being the tallest church tower in Asia which can be seen from anywhere in the town, the Bible Tower is located in Thrissur, Kerala. With a height of around 260 feet, the structure was inaugurated on 7th January 2007. Dr Pedro Lopez Quintana, reverend dedicated the tower for world peace. One of the most sacred places present in Thrissur, the Bible Tower stands proudly at around 260 feet tower behind two towers with a height of 140 feet each. Not only that, this structure has also been certified as an earthquake-proof structure by the officials of the Geology Department. The building has been adorned with a lit red cross on the top which is proudly symbolic of the presence of the Roman Catholic Church in the Thrissur city. The childhood of Jesus Christ has been exquisitely carved in wood and his healing being displayed in stained glass. Attractive paintings of apostles in terra cotta, special oil paintings which show the sufferings of Jesus Christ and miracles of Christ demonstrated in brass are enough to captivate the visitors.

Experience Time: 1-2 hours

Distance: 0 kms

Vadakkunnathan Temple

The Vadakkunnathan Temple, which is an architectural wonder in wood and stone, is one of the oldest temples in the state and stands tall in the heart of Thrissur in the middle of a nine-acre walled patch of green. This temple being centuries old beautifully depicts the rich cultural heritage that Kerala has to offer for which it also received the 'Award of Excellence' at the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation. With a collection of beautiful Mural paintings, some of which are more than 400 years old, this gigantic 1000 year old temple and historical structure is famous for the Nataraja Mural near the main gate. Taking a walk in the serene surroundings of the temple is going to treat you to a thrilling mix of the architectural beauty, culture, history, and heritage of the place. The structure to date displays its original colours without much preservation. The shrine of Vadakkumnathan is also situated there, which is covered completely under ghee for centuries, without any incidence of melting. The shrines of Mahavishnu and Shankaranarayan are also located in the temple. It features one of the largest Dance Hall, called Koothambalam which depict unique Keralan architecture. It hosts traditional performances called Nangyar Koothu. Just outside the temple complex are situated the Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple and Paramekkavu Devi Temple, which are considered to be the sister temples of Vadakummnathan. This Temple is strictly open to Hindus. Non-Hindus are not allowed inside, but they can stand outside and look at the photos from there.

Experience Time: Less than 1 hour

Distance: 17 kms

Marottichal Waterfalls

Home to two beautiful waterfalls namely Olakkayam and Ilanjippara, the serene and exquisite Marottichal Waterfalls is a stunning place which is located 22 km away from the town of Thrissur. The Olakkayam and Ilanjippara Waterfalls not being explored so much till date have made them one of the finest spots for spending some time alone surrounded by nature away from the noise and the monotonous routine of the city life. You can swim and bathe in the middle of a green environment and get a refreshing as well as relaxed feeling after an adventurous trek. After walking for about 4 km from Olakkayam Waterfall, one comes across the Ilanjippara Waterfall which still showcases its virgin beauty with the site offering a tranquil escape. The place is full of flora and fauna which also offers some breathtaking views of the dense forest. From both these waterfalls, one gets to witness the beauty of nature around at its best with the waters falling from the cluster of rocks into the gorge below. A herd of elephants comes down to the Ilanjippara Waterfall in the summer season which is why it is advisable to go there in groups to avoid any dangerous mishap. The presence of the waterfall inside the forest gives it a surreal view. Here, one can take a 4-hour trek and reach the top of the hill with numerous streams of water on the way there. At the top end, there is a tall waterfall at about 2 km walking distance from the Marottichal bus stop. A refreshing place, these waterfalls are a must-visit for every nature lover.

Experience Time: 1-2 hours

Distance: 35 kms

Cheraman Juma Mosque

The first and oldest mosque built on the land of India, the Cheraman Juma Masjid is situated in the Methala village of Kodungallur town of Kerala. It is also the second oldest mosque where Jumu'ah prayers are offered and was built in 629 AD by Malik Ibn Dinar. It has a distinctive feature which differentiates it from the rest of the mosques being that it faces westwards while all the other mosques face towards the east. The mosque follows the Hindu architectural style and consists of a lamp which is believed to be a 1000 years old but still burns. Devotees from all over the world bring oil as an offering to the lamp. People belonging to other religions as well are allowed inside to offer prayers. There is white marble inside which is believed to have been brought from Mecca. A lot of festivals are celebrated in the mosque with great fun and frolic including the Hindu festival known as Vijaya Dasmi, Ramadan, and Bakra-Eid. The place offers a lot of peace and helps one break away from the usual routine. The history offered by the place and its exquisite architecture is worth witnessing. So, all those history lovers out there should not miss out the chance to visit this beauty!

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