Welcome to Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala and one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. If you’re looking for a place that’s steeped in history and culture, with plenty of tourist attractions to explore, then look no further than Thrissur.
From the stunning Vadakkumnathan Temple to the majestic Athirapally waterfalls, Thrissur is packed with beautiful and iconic tourist places that are sure to leave you mesmerized. Whether you’re interested in architecture, art, or nature, you’ll find something to suit your tastes in Thrissur.
Tourism is a major industry in Thrissur, and for good reason. The city is home to some of the most beautiful temples and churches in India, including the iconic St. Thomas Church and the Guruvayur Temple, which is one of the most visited temples in the country.
But that’s not all – Thrissur is also known for its lush green forests, pristine beaches, and scenic backwaters. Take a boat ride along the backwaters of Chettuva or visit the famous Kauthuka Park, where you can admire exotic plants and flowers from all over the world.
So why wait? Book your trip to Thrissur today and discover all the amazing tourist places that this beautiful city has to offer. With its rich history, cultural heritage, and breathtaking scenery, Thrissur is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience something truly special.
About Thrissur
Thrissur, also known as Trichur, is a city located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is the fourth largest urban agglomeration in Kerala and serves as the administrative headquarters of the Thrissur District.
The history of Thrissur dates back to the ancient times when it was ruled by the Chera Dynasty. Later on, it was ruled by the Zamorins of Calicut and then the Dutch and the British. During the British era, Thrissur became an important center for trading in spices and coir products. It was also an important hub for the Indian independence movement, with many prominent leaders like K. Kelappan and K. Madhavan Nair hailing from the city.
Thrissur is known for its rich cultural heritage and is often referred to as the cultural capital of Kerala. The city is famous for its numerous temples, churches, and festivals. The Thrissur Pooram, which is held annually in the Vadakkumnathan Temple, is one of the most famous festivals in Kerala and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Apart from its cultural and historical significance, Thrissur is also an important center for education, with several universities and institutions located in the city. It is also home to several industries, including textiles, coir, and manufacturing.
In recent years, Thrissur has emerged as a popular tourist destination, thanks to its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore a variety of tourist places in the city, including temples, museums, and natural attractions like waterfalls and backwaters.
Overall, Thrissur is a city with a rich history and culture, and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the beauty and diversity of India.
Architecture of Thrissur
The architecture of Thrissur reflects its rich cultural heritage and history. The city is known for its beautiful temples, churches, and other historical buildings that showcase a blend of traditional Kerala and colonial architectural styles.
One of the most iconic architectural landmarks in Thrissur is the Vadakkumnathan Temple. This ancient temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an excellent example of traditional Kerala architecture. The temple features a stunning collection of wood carvings, murals, and sculptures that depict various mythological tales.
Another architectural marvel in Thrissur is the St. Thomas Church, which is one of the oldest churches in India. The church, which was built in the 17th century, features a unique blend of European and Indian architectural styles, with intricate wood carvings and beautiful frescoes adorning its walls and ceilings.
The Palakkad Fort, which was built in the 18th century, is another example of colonial architecture in Thrissur. The fort features a unique blend of traditional Indian and European architectural styles and is known for its massive walls and beautiful gateways.
Apart from these historical landmarks, Thrissur is also home to several modern architectural marvels, including the Lulu International Convention Center and the Sobha City Mall.
Overall, the architecture of Thrissur is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage and history. The city’s beautiful temples, churches, and other landmarks showcase a blend of traditional and colonial architectural styles, making it a fascinating destination for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
50 Places to Visit in Thrissur
- Vadakkumnathan Temple: An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning collection of wood carvings, murals, and sculptures.
- Guruvayur Temple: One of the most famous and revered Hindu temples in India, dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- Thrissur Zoo: A popular attraction with a diverse collection of animals and birds, including tigers, lions, and macaws.
- Thrissur Pooram: A vibrant and colorful festival featuring elephants, percussion music, and fireworks.
- Athirapally Waterfalls: A stunning waterfall located in the Sholayar Range, popular for its scenic beauty.
- Shakthan Thampuran Palace: A historical palace built in the traditional Kerala style, known for its exquisite woodwork and mural paintings.
- Kerala Kalamandalam: A renowned institute for classical Indian performing arts, including Kathakali and Mohiniyattam.
- Chavakkad Beach: A serene and picturesque beach with golden sands and clear waters.
- Nattika Beach: A secluded beach known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
- Vazhachal Waterfalls: A beautiful waterfall located on the Chalakudy River, surrounded by lush green forests.
- Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary: A unique sanctuary where visitors can interact with and feed elephants.
- Peechi Dam: A popular picnic spot surrounded by lush green forests and serene waters.
- Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple: A famous temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its stunning architecture.
- Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple: Another popular temple in Thrissur, known for its colorful annual festival.
- Arattupuzha Pooram: A grand festival featuring a procession of decorated elephants and percussion music.
- Vilangan Hills: A beautiful hill station with stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
- Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours: A magnificent church known for its Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
- Puli Kali: A vibrant and colorful folk art form performed during the Onam festival.
- Kauthuka Park: A unique park with a variety of themed gardens and sculptures.
- Snehatheeram Beach: A popular beach with calm waters and beautiful views.
- Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Museum: A museum dedicated to Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine.
- Ooty Park: A beautiful park with a variety of flora and fauna, including peacocks and deer.
- Art Museum: A museum showcasing a collection of traditional Kerala art and artifacts.
- Sree Rama Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Rama, known for its unique architecture.
- Nenmara Vallangi Vela: A grand festival featuring a procession of decorated chariots and percussion music.
- Koodalmanikyam Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its unique architecture.
- Kollengode Palace: A historical palace built in the traditional Kerala style, now converted into a museum.
- Pazhur Padippura: An ancient gateway located at the entrance of the Thrissur Pooram festival ground.
- Irinjalakuda Koodalmanikyam Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Bharatha, known for its unique architecture.
- Thalikulam Snehatheeram Beach: A popular beach known for its tranquil atmosphere and clear waters.
- Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected wildlife sanctuary with a diverse
- Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary: A beautiful wildlife sanctuary known for its diverse flora and fauna.
- Cheraman Juma Masjid: A historic mosque believed to be the first mosque in India.
- Kollengode Hanuman Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its stunning architecture.
- Thiruvilwamala Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Rama, known for its unique architecture.
- Palayur Church: One of the oldest Christian churches in India, believed to have been founded by Saint Thomas.
- Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple: A famous temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, known for its colorful annual festival.
- Padiyur Kavu Temple: A temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, known for its unique architecture.
- Chiramanangad Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its beautiful architecture.
- Karuvannur Kavu Temple: A temple dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, known for its stunning architecture.
- Keralavarma Pazhassiraja Museum & Art Gallery: A museum showcasing a collection of traditional Kerala art and artifacts.
- Kauthuka Park: A unique park with a variety of themed gardens and sculptures.
- Peechi Dam Reservoir: A beautiful reservoir surrounded by lush green forests, popular for boating and fishing.
- Chimmony Dam: A scenic dam located on the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary, popular for its beautiful views.
- Valparai Hill Station: A beautiful hill station located on the Western Ghats, known for its tea plantations and scenic beauty.
- Kadambrayar Boating: A popular boating spot surrounded by serene waters and lush greenery.
- Pathiramanal Island: A small island located on the Vembanad Lake, known for its scenic beauty and birdwatching.
- Puthen Pally: A beautiful church known for its unique architecture and stunning interiors.
- Thrissur Art Gallery: A gallery showcasing a collection of traditional Kerala art and artifacts.
- Vilangankunnu: A beautiful hill station with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and a popular picnic spot.
Weather and Best time to visit Thrissur
Thrissur is a city located in the Indian state of Kerala, known for its rich cultural heritage, festivals, and scenic beauty. The best time to visit Thrissur is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.
During this time, the temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C, and the humidity is low, making it an ideal time for sightseeing, exploring the city’s cultural heritage, and indulging in outdoor activities.
However, if you want to experience the famous Thrissur Pooram festival, which takes place in April or May, you can plan your visit accordingly. The festival is a grand celebration of music, dance, and fireworks and is one of the most significant cultural events in Kerala.
During the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, the city experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity, making it less suitable for outdoor activities.
In summary, the best time to visit Thrissur is during the winter months from November to February, with the added option of experiencing the Thrissur Pooram festival in April or May.
How To Reach Thrissur
Thrissur is a city located in the southwestern state of Kerala, India. Here are the various ways you can reach Thrissur:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Thrissur is the Cochin International Airport, which is located around 55 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to reach Thrissur.
- By Train: Thrissur has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. There are regular trains to Thrissur from cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata, among others.
- By Bus: Thrissur has a well-developed network of buses that connect it to major cities in Kerala and neighboring states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. You can take a bus from cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, Bangalore, and Chennai, among others.
- By Car: Thrissur is well-connected by road to major cities in Kerala and neighboring states. You can hire a car or take a taxi from cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, Bangalore, and Chennai, among others, to reach Thrissur.
Overall, the most convenient way to reach Thrissur would be to take a flight to Cochin International Airport and then take a taxi or bus to Thrissur.
Accommodation Options in Thrissur
Thrissur offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury hotels. Here are some popular options:
- Hotels: Thrissur has many hotels ranging from budget to luxury. Some popular options are Joys Palace, Lulu International Convention Center & Garden Hotels, The Garuda Hotel, and Casino Hotels.
- Resorts: Thrissur also has some beautiful resorts like Rainforest Boutique Resort, Sterling Guruvayur, KTDC Tamarind Thrissur, and Joys Resorts and Retreats.
- Homestays: Homestays are a great way to experience the local culture and lifestyle. Some popular homestays in Thrissur are Green Valley Homestay, Vakkom Heritage, and Marari Beach Homestay.
- Guesthouses: Guesthouses are a more affordable option for travelers. Some popular guesthouses in Thrissur are Krishna Inn Guesthouse, New Ramesh Lodge, and Sreekumar Residency.
Overall, Thrissur offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. It’s always a good idea to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to ensure availability and get the best deals.
Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Thrissur As per Users Reviews and Ratings
Here is a brief on the top 10 hotels to stay in Thrissur based on user reviews and ratings:
- Joys Palace – This luxurious hotel is centrally located and offers modern amenities, excellent service, and spacious rooms.
- Lulu International Convention Center & Garden Hotels – This hotel features a convention center and landscaped gardens. It offers comfortable rooms, great service, and delicious food.
- The Garuda Hotel – This hotel is located near the railway station and offers well-furnished rooms, a rooftop pool, and excellent service.
- Casino Hotels – This hotel is located in the heart of Thrissur and offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and friendly service.
- Rainforest Boutique Resort – This resort is situated in the midst of lush greenery and offers eco-friendly accommodation, an outdoor pool, and great service.
- Sterling Guruvayur – This resort is located near the Guruvayur temple and offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and great service.
- KTDC Tamarind Thrissur – This resort is located near the Thrissur Zoo and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and friendly service.
- Green Valley Homestay – This homestay is located in a peaceful area and offers comfortable rooms, a garden, and personalized service.
- Krishna Inn Guesthouse – This guesthouse is located in the heart of Thrissur and offers affordable accommodation, friendly service, and clean rooms.
- New Ramesh Lodge – This guesthouse is located near the railway station and offers clean rooms, friendly service, and affordable rates.
Overall, these hotels and resorts offer great value for money and excellent service, making them popular choices among travelers visiting Thrissur.
Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Thrissur
Here are some travel tips to keep in mind before your trip to Thrissur:
- Climate: Thrissur has a tropical climate, with hot and humid summers and moderate winters. The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is pleasant.
- Clothing: Kerala is a conservative state, so it’s best to dress modestly. Lightweight cotton clothing is ideal for the hot and humid weather. When visiting religious places, make sure to cover your shoulders and legs.
- Language: Malayalam is the official language of Kerala, but most people in Thrissur speak English and Hindi. Learning a few Malayalam phrases can be helpful.
- Food: Thrissur is known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional Kerala dishes like appam, dosa, puttu, and seafood. Street food is also popular, but be careful about the hygiene and cleanliness of the vendors.
- Safety: Thrissur is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions like avoiding unlit areas at night and being aware of pickpockets.
- Transportation: Thrissur has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and taxis. Auto-rickshaws are also available but negotiate the fare before getting in. If you’re driving, be prepared for narrow and crowded roads.
- Festivals: Thrissur is known for its festivals, including the Thrissur Pooram, which is held in April or May. If you’re visiting during a festival, be prepared for crowds and book accommodation in advance.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Thrissur.
Food To Eat in Thrissur
Thrissur is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes a variety of traditional Kerala dishes as well as local specialties. Here are some must-try foods in Thrissur:
- Appam with Stew: Appam is a popular breakfast dish made with fermented rice batter, while stew is a mild and flavorful curry made with vegetables, meat, or seafood. This is a must-try combination when in Thrissur.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Puttu is a steamed rice cake served with kadala curry, which is a spicy and flavorful black chickpea curry. This is a popular breakfast dish in Thrissur.
- Kappa and Fish Curry: Kappa is mashed tapioca served with spicy fish curry. This is a staple food in Thrissur and is loved by locals and tourists alike.
- Nadan Kozhi Curry: Nadan Kozhi Curry is a spicy chicken curry made with local spices and coconut milk. This is a must-try dish for meat lovers.
- Malabar Biriyani: Malabar Biriyani is a flavorful rice dish made with spices, meat, or vegetables, and is a popular lunch option in Thrissur.
- Pazham Pori: Pazham Pori is a popular snack in Thrissur made with ripe plantains coated in flour and deep-fried until crispy. It’s a great snack to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Unniyappam: Unniyappam is a sweet snack made with rice flour, jaggery, banana, and coconut, and is a must-try dessert in Thrissur.
These are just a few of the delicious foods to try in Thrissur. Be sure to explore the local food scene and discover new flavors and dishes while you’re there.
Best Places for Shopping in Thrissur
Thrissur is a shopper’s paradise, offering a range of options for shopping enthusiasts. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Thrissur:
- Chalai Bazaar: Chalai Bazaar is a popular shopping destination in Thrissur, offering a variety of goods ranging from clothing to household items and handicrafts. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and traditional Kerala products.
- Kalyan Silks: Kalyan Silks is a popular clothing store in Thrissur that offers a wide range of traditional and contemporary clothing options. It’s a great place to shop for silk sarees, wedding attire, and other traditional outfits.
- MG Road: MG Road is the main shopping street in Thrissur, offering a variety of stores selling clothing, accessories, electronics, and more. It’s a great place to shop for everyday essentials.
- Focus Mall: Focus Mall is a modern shopping complex in Thrissur that houses a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a great place to shop for branded clothing and accessories, electronics, and more.
- Nakshatra Mall: Nakshatra Mall is another modern shopping complex in Thrissur that offers a range of stores selling clothing, electronics, home appliances, and more. It’s a great place to shop for luxury brands and high-end products.
- Thrissur Zoo: Thrissur Zoo is a great place to shop for souvenirs and handicrafts. It offers a variety of shops selling traditional Kerala products and handcrafted items.
These are just a few of the best places for shopping in Thrissur. Be sure to explore the local markets and shopping streets to discover more hidden gems.
Things you Can Buy as a Tourist From Thrissur
Thrissur is known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional arts and crafts, and delicious cuisine. Here are some things you should consider buying as a tourist from Thrissur:
- Kasavu Sarees: Kasavu sarees are traditional Kerala sarees made with cotton or silk and adorned with gold borders. These sarees are a popular souvenir item and are perfect for gifting.
- Nettipattam: Nettipattam is a traditional headdress worn by elephants during festivals in Kerala. These ornate headpieces make great home decor items and are available in various sizes and designs.
- Traditional Jewelry: Thrissur is known for its exquisite gold and silver jewelry, which is often studded with precious and semi-precious stones. You can buy traditional jewelry pieces like necklaces, earrings, bangles, and more from local jewelers in Thrissur.
- Handicrafts: Thrissur is home to several traditional arts and crafts, including wood carving, coconut shell crafts, and pottery. You can buy beautiful handicraft items like lamps, vases, and figurines from local artisans.
- Spices: Kerala is known for its aromatic spices like pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon. You can buy freshly ground spices and spice mixes from local markets in Thrissur.
- Banana Chips: Banana chips are a popular snack in Kerala and make a great souvenir item. You can buy freshly fried banana chips from local vendors in Thrissur.
- Ayurvedic Products: Kerala is known for its Ayurvedic treatments and products. You can buy natural Ayurvedic products like herbal oils, massage powders, and skincare products from local stores.
These are just a few things you can buy as a tourist from Thrissur. Be sure to explore the local markets and shops to discover more unique and traditional items.
Nightlife in Thrissur
Thrissur is a cultural and traditional city in Kerala, and the nightlife scene is relatively subdued. However, there are still some options for those looking for some night-time entertainment. Here are some things you can do for nightlife in Thrissur:
- Visit the local bars and restaurants: Thrissur has a variety of bars and restaurants that serve alcoholic beverages. Some popular options include the Club 7 bar, Caravan Resto Bar, and Tinku’s bar. These places offer a relaxed atmosphere and good music to enjoy your drinks.
- Attend a Kathakali performance: Kathakali is a traditional dance form of Kerala and is performed regularly in Thrissur. Several venues, including Kerala Kalamandalam and the Guruvayur temple, host Kathakali performances in the evenings.
- Enjoy a boat ride: Thrissur has several water bodies like the Peechi Dam and Vazhani Dam, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride in the evening.
- Visit the beach: Thrissur has several beaches, including the famous Cherai Beach, where you can take a leisurely stroll or simply relax and enjoy the sound of waves.
- Go for a night trek: Thrissur is surrounded by hills, and some trekking options are available like the Vazhachal Forest Trek, which is beautiful and adventurous.
These are some of the options for nightlife in Thrissur. However, it is important to note that most of these activities usually end by midnight, and there are not many options for late-night entertainment.
Activities and Things to Do in Thrissur
Thrissur is a beautiful city in Kerala with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here are some of the top activities and things to do in Thrissur:
- Visit Vadakkunnathan Temple: Vadakkunnathan Temple is a famous temple in Thrissur dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its magnificent architecture and serene atmosphere.
- Explore the Thrissur Zoo: The Thrissur Zoo is home to several exotic animals and birds, including tigers, lions, and elephants. It is a great place to visit with family and friends.
- Enjoy the Thrissur Pooram festival: Thrissur Pooram is a popular festival in Kerala celebrated in April/May. It is a vibrant festival with colorful processions, fireworks, and traditional music performances.
- Visit Athirapally Waterfalls: Athirapally Waterfalls is a stunning waterfall located on the Chalakudy River. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular picnic spot.
- Visit the Archaeological Museum: The Archaeological Museum in Thrissur houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including sculptures, coins, and pottery.
- Take a heritage walk: Thrissur has several heritage buildings and monuments, and a heritage walk is a great way to explore the city’s rich history and culture.
- Learn traditional arts and crafts: Thrissur is known for its traditional arts and crafts, including wood carving, pottery, and coconut shell crafts. You can attend workshops and classes to learn these skills from local artisans.
- Visit Guruvayur Temple: Guruvayur Temple is a popular pilgrimage site in Kerala and is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is known for its magnificent architecture and is a must-visit for spiritual seekers.
These are some of the top activities and things to do in Thrissur. Be sure to explore the city’s local markets, try the delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the local culture to make the most of your trip.
Lesser Known Facts About Thrissur
Thrissur is a beautiful city in Kerala known for its cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here are some lesser-known facts about Thrissur:
- The city’s name is derived from “Thiru-Shiva-Perur,” which means “the city of the sacred Shiva.”
- Thrissur is home to the oldest mosque in India, the Cheraman Juma Masjid. It is believed to have been built in 629 AD.
- The famous Thrissur Pooram festival is celebrated in memory of a ceasefire agreement between two local temples. The festival was first celebrated in the late 18th century and has since become one of the biggest festivals in Kerala.
- Thrissur is known as the cultural capital of Kerala and is home to several famous art forms, including Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Koodiyattam.
- The city has a long history of political and social activism, and many famous leaders, including C. Kesavan, C. Achutha Menon, and K. Karunakaran, hail from Thrissur.
- Thrissur has a rich tradition of Ayurveda, and several Ayurvedic centers and spas are located in the city.
- The city is surrounded by several hills, including the famous Athirapally and Vazhachal waterfalls, which are popular tourist destinations.
- Thrissur is also known for its delicious cuisine, including the famous Thalassery biryani, fish curry, and kappa (tapioca) dishes.
These are some lesser-known facts about Thrissur that highlight the city’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
FAQ About Thrissur
Sure, here are some frequently asked questions about Thrissur in Q&A format:
Q: What is the best time to visit Thrissur?
A: The best time to visit Thrissur is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Q: What is Thrissur famous for?
A: Thrissur is famous for its cultural heritage, traditional arts and crafts, Ayurveda, and delicious cuisine.
Q: How can I reach Thrissur?
A: Thrissur is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, and the nearest railway station is Thrissur Railway Station.
Q: What are some popular dishes in Thrissur?
A: Some popular dishes in Thrissur are Thalassery biryani, fish curry, kappa (tapioca) dishes, and traditional Kerala vegetarian dishes like sambar, avial, and thoran.
Q: What are some must-visit places in Thrissur?
A: Some must-visit places in Thrissur are Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur Zoo, Athirapally Waterfalls, Archaeological Museum, and Guruvayur Temple.
Q: What are some popular festivals celebrated in Thrissur?
A: Some popular festivals celebrated in Thrissur are Thrissur Pooram, Onam, Vishu, and Navratri.
Q: Is Thrissur a safe place to travel to?
A: Yes, Thrissur is generally a safe place to travel to. However, like any other city, travelers should take normal precautions and be aware of their surroundings, especially at night.