¤ About Thrissur
Trichur
or Thrissur as it is called locally, is well known for Vadakkunathan Temple,
the Thrissur Pooram an annual festival held in the city, the Kerala Kala
Mandalam, the Kerala Sahitya Academy and Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy.
The city and the area around it have a number of museums, art schools, and
institutes, which are dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich
cultural traditions of Kerala. The city holds annual eight day festival
called Thrissur Pooram during which brilliantly caparisoned elephants lead
processions. Followers representing the Thiruvambadi temple on one hand and
the Paramekkavu temple on the other hand celebrate the Pooram.
Elaborate
processions from both these temples start off amidst much fanfare through
the streets of Thrissur. The elephants belonging to these temples lead the
processions. Each elephant participating in this festival is richly
caparisoned, adorned with ornaments and topped with an equally
well-decorated parasol. There are 15 elephants from each group. Each side
tries to outdo the other in the decoration of elephants, as the side putting
up a better display than its rival is adjudged as the winner for that
particular year. Though the breathtaking spectacle of the procession is over
by dusk, the night sky over Thrissur is lit up with an equally breathtaking
display of fireworks. In fact, the Thrissur Pooram festival is a culmination
of similar smaller processions that originate in the towns near Thrissur and
wind their way up to the main event being held at the Vadakkunathan Temple.
While in Thrissur, you can experience the rich cultural heritage
that the state of Kerala proudly upholds. The multi-hued past of this city
comes alive at the Archaeological Museum and the Art Museum as also the art
gallery located within the Town Hall. The Vadakkunathan Temple is the
spiritual centre of the city and is famous all over India for its
magnificent annual Pooram festival. The sight of brilliantly caparisoned
elephants during the festival is one that must not be missed.
¤ Major Tourist Attractions
of ThrissurVadakkumnathan Temple - One of the
oldest temples in the state, the Vadakkumnathan Temple is a classical
example of the Kerala style of architecture and has many decorative murals
and works of art. This is the venue of the world famous Pooram festival,
celebrated annually in April- May. The fireworks at the Pooram are a
spectacular sight. Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple.
Peechi
Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary - The Peechi-Vazhani Sanctuary
comprising of the dense, moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forests is
situated in the catchment area of the Peechi and Vazhani dams.
Ariyannoor
Temple - This temple has a carved entrance gable, which has been
compared to the sculptures of American artist, Louise Nevelson. The Sree
Krishna Temple at Thirukulashekharapuram as well as the Siva Temple at
Thiruvanchikulam are believed to belong to the 9th century.
Saint
Thomas Memorial, Kodungalloor - St. Thomas, the apostle, is
believed to have landed in Kodungalloor (formerly called Muziris) in 52 AD.
The St. Thomas Church established by him houses ancient relics.
Thriprayar
Temple - Thriprayar Temple, located south of Thrissur is one of the
important temples dedicated to Lord Rama. The exquisite wood carvings,
sculptures and Mural Paintings are an interesting sight.
¤
ShoppingThrissur is a major city in Kerala and often referred to as
the cultural capital of the state. The rich tradition of art and crafts make
for great shopping in Thrissur. Silk weaving and jewelry making is a major
traditional handicraft in Thrissur. The famous silk saris of Thrissur, made
smooth silk threads and vibrant colors, are nearly a must buy for those who
want to do some shopping in Thrissur. The city also has big shops for
jewelry also. Other traditional handicrafts of Kerala like coir products,
coconut shell crafts, horn carvings, woodcarvings, brass works are also
found in abundance in Thrissur. The ace craftsmen of the region make
fantastic carpets, floor coverings and many other utility items and objets
d'art from coconut fibers and coconut shells. Horn carving is also exquisite
tradition in Kerala. You may choose to pick up these items while shopping in
Thrissur. Lastly, so not forget to take back Kathakali masks while shopping
in Thrissur as souvenirs of your wonderful Kerala tour. There are many
options for shopping in Thrissur. The state government rum emporia and
private shops are galore in the city. You can also buy roadside stalls
erected by the local vendors who offer wide variety and great bargain.
¤
AccomodationThere are many Rest Houses & Hotels where
accommodation is available to suit every budget.
Thrissur
