THRISSUR
Are you tired of the same old touristy destinations that everyone and their grandmother visits? Well, fear not, because I've got the perfect place for you - Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala!
Thrissur is a hidden gem that's often overlooked by travelers in favor of more popular destinations like Goa or Jaipur. But let me tell you, this place has got it all - from stunning temples to mouth-watering delicacies.
As soon as you step foot in Thrissur, you'll be greeted with the sound of chenda melam (traditional drumming) and the sight of beautifully adorned elephants. It's like stepping into a different world altogether!
But what makes Thrissur truly special is its people. They're some of the friendliest and most welcoming folks you'll ever meet. Whether it's a street vendor selling vada pav or a local artist showcasing their work, everyone here will greet you with a smile and make you feel right at home.
And let's not forget about the food! If you're a fan of spicy cuisine, then Thrissur is your paradise. From puttu to appam, there's no shortage of delicious dishes to try. And if you're feeling adventurous, give their signature dish - thiruvathira puzhukku - a shot.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head over to Thrissur for an experience unlike any other!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Thrissur
- How to Reach and getting around Thrissur
- Weather of Thrissur
- Places to Visit in Thrissur
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Thrissur
- Best areas for Accommodation in Thrissur
- Shopping in Thrissur
- Nightlife in Thrissur
- Festivals and Events in Thrissur
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Thrissur
- FAQs
History and Culture of Thrissur
Thrissur, also known as the cultural capital of Kerala, has a rich history and vibrant culture that dates back to ancient times. Legend has it that the city was founded by Lord Parasurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who is believed to have thrown his axe into the sea and created a new land that came to be known as Kerala.
Over the centuries, Thrissur has been ruled by various dynasties such as the Zamorins, Tipu Sultan, and the British. The city played a significant role in the Indian freedom struggle and was a hotbed for revolutionary activities.
Today, Thrissur is home to several famous landmarks such as the Vadakkumnathan Temple, which is one of the oldest temples in India. The temple hosts an annual festival called Thrissur Pooram, which is a grand celebration featuring elephants, fireworks, and music.
Apart from religious festivals, Thrissur also celebrates cultural events such as Onam, Vishu, and Christmas with equal fervor. The city is also renowned for its traditional art forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam, and Thullal.
Thrissur's cuisine is a blend of traditional Kerala flavors with its own unique twist. Some popular dishes include Puttu-Kadala curry, Appam-Stew or Egg roast. The city's street food scene is also worth exploring with delicacies like Parotta-Kurma,Vada-Pav etc.
Overall,Thrissur's history and culture are truly fascinating and make it an ideal destination for tourists looking for an authentic Indian experience.
How to Reach and getting around Thrissur
Thrissur is a beautiful city in Kerala, India, known for its rich culture, ancient temples, and vibrant festivals. There are several ways to reach Thrissur that offer an exciting journey and memorable experiences. Here are some options to consider:
By Air: The nearest airport to Thrissur is Cochin International Airport, which is about 58 km away. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to reach Thrissur. It takes around 2 hours by road.
By Train: Thrissur has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. You can take a train from Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, or other cities to reach Thrissur. Some popular trains that run to/from Thrissur are the Guruvayur Express, Mangalore Express, and Venad Express.
By Road: If you prefer traveling by road, there are several options available. You can take a bus or drive your own car from nearby cities like Kochi (75 km), Coimbatore (118 km), or Bangalore (471 km). The roads are well-maintained and offer scenic views of the Western Ghats.
By Bike: For adventure enthusiasts, biking is an excellent option to reach Thrissur. The winding roads through hills and valleys offer a thrilling experience. You can rent a bike from Kochi or any nearby city and ride your way to Thrissur.
By Boat: If you want to explore the backwaters of Kerala while reaching Thrissur, you can take a boat ride from Cochin or Alleppey. The journey takes around 4-5 hours but offers breathtaking views of the lush greenery and tranquil waterways.
In conclusion, reaching Thrissur is easy and exciting with multiple options available for travelers depending on their preferences and budget. Whether you prefer air travel or want to explore the countryside by bike or boat, there's something for everyone in this beautiful city of Kerala!
Weather of Thrissur
Extreme Winters
Mild Winters
Hot + DryHot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantThrissur is a beautiful city situated in the southern state of Kerala, India. The climate of Thrissur is tropical, with hot and humid summers and moderate winters. The monsoon season in Thrissur brings heavy rainfall, which lasts from June to September. During this time, the city experiences frequent showers and thunderstorms, making it difficult for tourists to explore the place.
The best time to visit Thrissur is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing. The temperature during this time ranges from 20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as visiting temples, museums, and other tourist attractions. This period also coincides with the festival season of Kerala when the city comes alive with celebrations.
The winter months of December and January are the peak tourist season in Thrissur due to Christmas and New Year celebrations. The cool breeze and clear skies make it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as trekking and camping.
In conclusion, if you want to enjoy the best of what Thrissur has to offer, plan your trip between October and March when the weather is pleasant, and you can partake in various cultural festivities. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this beautiful city!
Places to Visit in Thrissur
Vadakkumnathan Temple - This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Kerala. It features a stunning architecture with a tall gopuram (temple tower), murals, and intricate carvings.
Athirapally Waterfalls - Located about 63 km from Thrissur, the Athirapally Waterfalls is a breathtaking sight to behold. The falls cascade down from a height of 80 feet and are surrounded by lush green forests.
Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary - This sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, langurs, and different bird species. Visitors can take a safari tour to explore the sanctuary's diverse wildlife.
Thrissur Zoo - Also known as the State Museum and Zoo Complex, this place offers an impressive collection of animals like lions, tigers, leopards, crocodiles, snakes, birds and butterflies.
Guruvayur Temple - One of the most famous temples in Kerala dedicated to Lord Krishna. It has a massive temple complex with beautiful architecture and houses several other temples within its premises.
Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary - Situated close to Guruvayoor Temple , this sanctuary is home to more than 60 elephants that are well taken care of under the supervision of mahouts.
Shakthan Thampuran Palace - This palace was once the residence of King Rama Varma Shakthan Thampuran and now serves as a museum showcasing various artifacts like murals , manuscripts , weapons , statues etc from ancient times.
Vilangan Hills - A popular trekking destination located about 5 km from Thrissur town . The hill offers breathtaking views of Thrissur town along with lush green surroundings.
Peechi Dam - Located about 23 km from Thrissur town , Peechi dam is an ideal picnic spot for tourists . It offers scenic views along with boating facilities on its reservoir .
Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple – One among the two temples which are part of world-renowned Thrissur Pooram festival which attracts lakhs of devotees every year . The temple has beautiful architecture and houses several shrines within its premises .
Religious Shrines
Heritage Places
Relaxing Retreats
Beaches
Nearby Forests
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Thrissur
Best areas for accommodation in Thrissur
Thrissur, also known as the cultural capital of Kerala, is a beautiful city that attracts tourists from all over the world. It is home to numerous temples, museums, and art galleries that showcase the rich culture of Kerala. When it comes to accommodation in Thrissur, there are several areas that offer comfortable and convenient stays for visitors.
1. Swaraj Round
Swaraj Round is one of the most popular areas for accommodation in Thrissur. It is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions. The area is well-connected by public transport and offers a range of accommodation options for all budgets.
2. Poothole
Poothole is another great area for accommodation in Thrissur. It is located on the outskirts of the city and offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors. The area is known for its greenery and natural beauty, making it a great place to stay if you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
3. Punkunnam
Punkunnam is a residential area located close to Swaraj Round. It offers a range of affordable accommodation options for budget travelers. The area has several budget hotels and guesthouses that offer basic amenities at reasonable prices.
If you're looking for luxury accommodation in Thrissur, here are three properties that you might want to consider:
- The Garuda Hotel: This five-star hotel is located in Swaraj Round and offers luxurious rooms with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, and free Wi-Fi.
- Joys Palace: This four-star hotel is located in Thrissur town and features spacious rooms with elegant decor, air conditioning, minibars, and free Wi-Fi.
- KTDC Tamarind Thrissur: This three-star hotel is located near Punkunnam and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities such as air conditioning, TV, minibars, and free Wi-Fi.
For budget travelers who are looking for affordable accommodation options in Thrissur, here are three properties that might interest you:
- Sree Gokulam Residency: This budget hotel is located near Swaraj Round and offers clean rooms with basic amenities such as air conditioning, TV, and free Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Trichur Towers: This budget hotel is also located near Swaraj Round and features simple rooms with air conditioning, TV, minibars, and free Wi-Fi.
- Mannapuram Hotels Pvt Ltd: This budget hotel is located near Punkunnam and offers clean rooms with basic amenities such as air conditioning, TV, minibars,and free Wi-Fi.
Overall,Tthrissur has plenty to offer when it comes to accommodation options. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels or budget guesthouses,you're sure to find something that suits your needs in this beautiful city!
Shopping in Thrissur
Thrissur is a bustling city in Kerala, known for its cultural heritage, temples, and vibrant markets. Shopping in Thrissur is a delightful experience as it offers a mix of traditional and modern products. From silk saris to handicrafts, the city has something for everyone.
Things to buy
- Silk Saris: Thrissur is famous for its silk saris that come in various designs and patterns.
- Handicrafts: The city has numerous shops selling beautiful handicrafts made by local artisans.
- Spices: Kerala is known for its spices, and you can find an array of them in the markets of Thrissur.
- Jewelry: If you're looking for some exquisite jewelry pieces, then Thrissur's markets won't disappoint you.
Markets to visit
- Chalai Market: Located in the heart of the city, Chalai Market is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Thrissur. You can find everything from fresh produce to traditional handicrafts here.
- Sreejith Handicrafts Emporium: This store specializes in offering unique handicrafts made by local artisans.
- Kulathupuzha Handicrafts Village: Situated on the outskirts of the city, this village offers an insight into the traditional handicraft making process.
What to avoid
- Buying from unauthorized sellers: Always buy from authorized sellers as they offer genuine products.
- Street food: Avoid eating street food as it may not be hygienic.
- Overpriced items: Bargain before buying anything as some shopkeepers may overprice their goods.
- Crowded areas during peak hours: It's best to avoid crowded areas during peak hours as it may get overwhelming.
Nightlife in Thrissur
Thrissur, also known as the cultural capital of Kerala, offers an exciting and vibrant nightlife experience. The city is filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to all tastes and preferences. From traditional Kerala cuisine to international delicacies, Thrissur has it all. The city's nightlife scene is particularly popular among the young crowd who likes to party and dance the night away.
Here are three places in Thrissur that offer a variety of activities for spending the night:
The Barbeque House: This restaurant-cum-bar is a popular destination for foodies and party-goers alike. It serves mouth-watering grilled dishes and cocktails that are sure to delight your taste buds. The Barbeque House also hosts live music performances on weekends, making it an ideal spot for a fun-filled night out.
Rhapsody: For those who enjoy live music and dancing, Rhapsody is the place to be. This nightclub features some of the best DJs in town playing a mix of local and international tracks. With its energetic atmosphere and lively crowd, Rhapsody promises an unforgettable night out.
Kanayi Palam: If you're looking for something more laid-back, Kanayi Palam is a great option. It's a riverside park that offers stunning views of the city skyline at night. You can take a leisurely stroll along the river or just sit back and relax while enjoying some snacks from nearby street vendors.
In conclusion, Thrissur's nightlife scene has something for everyone – from foodies to party animals to those who prefer a more peaceful setting. So come explore this vibrant city after dark!
Outdoor Activities in Thrissur
If you're looking for some outdoor activities in Thrissur, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're an adventure seeker or just looking to spend some time in nature, there's something for everyone. One of the most popular activities in Thrissur is trekking. There are several trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests. Another great way to explore the outdoors is by going on a wildlife safari. You can spot elephants, tigers, and other exotic animals in their natural habitat.
For those who love water sports, Thrissur has plenty to offer. You can go kayaking or canoeing on the tranquil backwaters of the Periyar river. The river is surrounded by lush greenery and is home to a variety of birds and aquatic creatures. If you're looking for something more thrilling, you can try your hand at white water rafting on the Chalakudy river.
If you prefer something more laid back, there are several parks and gardens in Thrissur where you can enjoy a peaceful walk or a picnic with family and friends. The Athirapally Waterfalls is another popular attraction where you can spend hours admiring the beauty of nature.
- Trekking
- Wildlife Safari
- Kayaking or Canoeing
Festivals and Events in Thrissur
Thrissur, also known as the cultural capital of Kerala, is renowned for its vibrant festivals and events that attract visitors from across the globe. The city is home to several religious festivals and cultural events that showcase its rich heritage and vibrant culture.
Here are some of the most popular festivals and events in Thrissur:
Thrissur Pooram (April/May): This is one of the most famous festivals in Thrissur and is celebrated with great enthusiasm every year. It is a grand temple festival celebrated at Vadakkunnathan Temple, where two groups of 15 elephants each are decorated with ornamental bells, peacock feathers, and bright-colored parasols. The festival concludes with a spectacular display of fireworks.
Onam (August/September): Onam is a harvest festival that marks the homecoming of King Mahabali. It is celebrated for ten days with colorful processions, traditional dances such as Thiruvathira Kali and Pulikali, boat races, and flower decorations.
Pulikkali (August/September): Also known as Kaduvakali or Tiger Dance, Pulikkali is a unique folk art form performed during Onam. Men paint their bodies like tigers and dance on the streets to entertain people.
Navarathri Festival (September/October): Navarathri Festival is a nine-day long festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. People set up beautiful idols of various gods and goddesses in their homes and offer prayers.
Christmas (December): Christmas is widely celebrated in Thrissur with colorful decorations all over the city. Churches hold special masses on Christmas Eve, followed by carol singing.
Apart from these major festivals, there are other events such as the International Film Festival of Kerala held in December every year which attracts film enthusiasts from around the world. The annual Thrissur Pooram Exhibition held during April-May showcases local handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and other products.
Overall, Thrissur's festivals and events provide visitors with an opportunity to experience its unique culture firsthand while enjoying its stunning natural beauty.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Thrissur
- Plan your trip around the festivals: Thrissur is known for its vibrant festivals, so plan your trip accordingly to witness the cultural extravaganza. The Thrissur Pooram festival, held in April or May, is a must-see event that draws huge crowds from all over the world.
- Pack light and comfortable: As a tourist destination, Thrissur can get quite crowded during peak seasons. To ensure a hassle-free experience, pack light and comfortable clothing and shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking and sightseeing, so be prepared!
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions: Kerala has a rich culture and tradition that's deeply rooted in its history. Respect local customs and traditions when visiting temples or attending religious ceremonies. Dress modestly and remove your footwear before entering temples.
- Try local cuisine: Kerala is famous for its delicious cuisine, so don't miss out on trying some of the local delicacies. From spicy seafood curries to delicious vegetarian dishes like appam with stew, there's something for everyone. Make sure you try some of the street food too!
- Explore beyond the city limits: While Thrissur has plenty to offer in terms of sightseeing and cultural experiences, don't forget to explore beyond the city limits too. Visit nearby attractions like Athirapally waterfalls or take a backwater cruise in Alleppey for a unique experience.
Overall, traveling to Thrissur can be an enriching experience with plenty of cultural insights and natural beauty to explore. By following these tips, you'll be able to make the most out of your trip while ensuring a comfortable and respectful stay in this beautiful city.
FAQs
What is Thrissur known for?
Thrissur is known as the cultural capital of Kerala, India. It is famous for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples and churches, and vibrant festivals like Thrissur Pooram. The city also has a thriving art scene and is home to several museums and galleries showcasing traditional as well as contemporary art.
How can I reach Thrissur?
Thrissur is well-connected by road, rail and air. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is about 55 km away from the city. Thrissur Railway Station is a major junction on the Southern Railway network and connects the city to other parts of India by train. Several state-run and private buses also ply between Thrissur and nearby cities.
What are some popular tourist attractions in Thrissur?
Thrissur has several popular tourist attractions, including the Vadakkunnathan Temple, Guruvayoor Temple, Athirapally Waterfalls, Chavakkad Beach, Archaeological Museum, Shakthan Thampuran Palace and Bible Tower. The city is also famous for its colorful festivals like Thrissur Pooram, which attracts thousands of visitors every year.
What are some famous dishes to try in Thrissur?
Thrissur has a rich culinary culture with a wide range of unique dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Some of the must-try dishes include kozhukkatta (rice dumplings stuffed with jaggery or coconut), chatti pathiri (layered pastry filled with chicken or vegetables), nadan kozhi curry (traditional chicken curry), puttu (steamed rice cake) with kadala curry (chickpea gravy) and parotta (layered flatbread).
Is it safe to travel to Thrissur?
Thrissur is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, like any other place in the world, it's important to take precautions while traveling in unfamiliar surroundings. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings at all times and avoid venturing out alone at night or in isolated areas.
What are some shopping destinations in Thrissur?
Thrissur offers a great shopping experience for tourists looking for local handicrafts, textiles and other traditional items. Some popular shopping destinations include MG Road, Kalyan Silks, Selex Mall, Focus Mall and Puthenpally Shopping Complex.
What are some accommodations available in Thrissur?
Thrissur offers a wide range of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. Some popular options include Joys Palace Hotel & Convention Centre, Hotel Pooram International,Thrissur Towers Hotel & Resorts , Lulu International Convention Center & Garden Hotels , Casino Hotel - Cgh Earth Cochin , Niya Regency etc.
