Thrissur
HISTORYThe name ‘Thrissur’ is the abbreviated form of ‘Thrissivaperur’ in Malayalam, meaning the town of the “Sacred Siva”.
From the ancient times, Thrissur District has played a significant role in the political history of South India. The early political history is connected with Cheras of the Sangam Age, who then ruled a vast area of Kerala with their capital at Vanchi. At that time, the whole of the present Thrissur District was included in the early Chera Empire.
The District had also played a significant role to foster trade relations between Kerala and outside world during the ancient medieval period. Kodungalloor had the unique distinction of being the “Premium Emporium India” giving shelter to three Communities viz the Christians, the Jews. And the Muslim, who contributed to the prosperity of Malabar’.
The history of Thrissur District from the 9th to 12th Centuries was intermingled with the history of the Kulasekharas. The 12th Century witnessed the dominating power of Perumpadappu Swarupam, who were the unchallengeable rulers of the region for number of years. Perumpadappu Swarupam had established its capital at different places.
The literary works of the period indicate that Perumpadappu Swarupam had its headquarters at Mahodayapuram. Number of Naduvazhies in Southern and central Kerala recognized the supremacy of Perumpadappu Moopil . Even today, Perumpadappu Moopil is referred to as the “Kerala chakravarthi “ in the “Sivavilasam” and some other literary works .
One of the landmark happenings connected with the history of Perumpadappu swarupam is the foundation of the new era called ‘Pudu Vaipu Era’.
This Era is traditionally believed to have commenced from the date Island Vypeen was thrown from the Sea.
The 14th & 15th Centuries witnessed aggressive wars,as a result of which the Samorins of Calicut acquired large part of the present Thrissur Dist.
The succeeding Century witnessed the Portuguese emerge as a dominating force .But in the beginning of the 17th century , the Portuguese power in Kerala came on verge of collapse. About this time, other European powers like the Dutch and the English appeared on the scene and they challenged the Portuguese. Internal dissension in the Perumpadappu Swarupam enabled the Dutch to get a foothold on the Kerala coast. The Dutch were given hearty welcome by the Kerala chiefs. Because they could foresee the impending collapse of the Portuguese before the rising power of the Dutch.
The decadence and consequential need of solidarity opened the floodgates of aggression. It was during this time, Hyder Ali and Tippu Sulthan were prominently figured.
Raja Varma (1790-1805) ,popularly known as Sakthan Thampuran (The Architect of Thrissur Town ), ascended the throne of Cochin .He was already the Administrative Authority of the state since 1769 . The powers of Administrative Authority were delegated to him by the then reigning sovereign at the intiative of the Travancore Raja and the Dutch Governor .Sakthan Thampuran was a strong ruler as his name itself suggests and his reign was characterized by firm and vigorous administration. As a testimony to this, the power of the feudal chieftains was crushed by him in the 18th century and the Royal Authority became Supreme. Another potent force in the public life of Trichur and its suburbs was the Namboodiri community. A large part of the Trichur Taluk was for long under the domination of the Yogiathirippads,the ecclesiastical heads of the Vadakkunnathan and Perumanam Devaswoms. The Yogiathrippads were elected and consecrated by the Namboodiri, Yogams of the respective places. Under the leadership, the Namboodiri families of Trichur and Perumanam were playing an active part against the ruler of Cochin in his wars against the Zamorin of Calicut. Hence after the expulsion of the Zamorin from Thrissur in 1761, drastic action was taken against the families by the Raja of Cochin. The institution of Yogiathirippads was discontinued and the management of Trichur and Perumanam Devaswoms was taken over by the Government. The Namboodiri Yogams were reduced to powerlessness. Thus the antifeudal measures of Saktan Thampuran coupled with the several administrative reforms introduced by him marked the end of the medieval period in the history of Cochin and ushered in the modern epoch of progress.
It is of paramount importance to know about the institution of the Yogiathirippad. The Yogiathirippad of the Vadakkumnathan Devaswom was elected by the Namboothiri illams of Thrissur and its suburbs. The Yogiathirippad was elected for life in the August presence of the ruler of Cochin, local chieftains and prominent Namboothiris from places outside Trichur. An interesting account of the Yogiathiri Avarodham (ceremony connected with the consecration of the Yogiathirippad ) as gathered from the Grandhavari or chronicles of the Trichur Temple is given by K.P.Padmanabha Menon in his History of Kerala Vol IV (p.82086).The Yogiathirippad was a very powerful and fluential dignitary. The last Yogiathirippad was banished from Trichur 1763 for having joining the side of the Zamorin against Cochin. Sakthan Tampuran put an end to the institution of the Yogiathirippad. Since then the numerous Namboothiri illams in Trichur town and its suburbs reminding one of those old days when the Namboothiri Yogam of Trichur along with the Perumanam Yogam exercised jurisdiction over a large portion of the present Trichur Taluk.
Settlement of territorial claims
Sakthan Tampuran ascended the throne just before the conclusion of the treaty with the English East India Company according to which Cochin threw off all allegiants to Tipu and become tributary to the company. One of the conditions of the treaty was that if any Raja preferred any claim to any of the place and districts mentioned there in within a period of five years after the date of the treaty it should be entitled to an impartial investigation and be submitted to the final decision of the company’s government. Taking advantage of this provision in this treaty. It may be noted in this connection that the Chettuvai island inclusive of Cranganore and patinettaralayam was leased to Cochin on a rental of Rs.40000/-a few months before the treaty was signed in 1791. The Zamorin also claimed it as his, but his claim was rejected on the ground that it had been taken from him by the Dutch in 1717and from the letter by Haider Ali in 1776and again by the English from Tipu in 1790. The lease to Cochin was renewed for two years from November 1791 and again for 10 years in 1793on the same rent. One of the condition of the lease was that the Cochin Raja should not exercise any civil or criminal jurisdiction over the tract and that if any complaints were to be made by the local inhabitants of oppression by the Raja and his officials and such complaints were proved to be true, the lease would be cancelled. The Raja of Cochin was not willing to submit to such conditions and the lease was therefore cancelled in 1801even before the expiry of the stipulated period. Patinettaralayam had alternatively been in the possession of the Zamorin, the Dutch and Cochin. But in 1761 it was finally made over to Cochin by the Dutch and on the strength of this Cochin’s claim to it was now conceded. Cranganore had more often been under the Zamorin or the Dutch that under Cochin and at the time of Haider’s invasion it was under Tipu. But the Mysore Sulthan treated it as subject to Cochin and levied his tribute from it through Cochin. In view of its historic past and strategic importance the company’s officials wanted to bring Cranganore under their direct rule, if only they could get the concurrence Of the Cranganore Raja. But when questioned by the Malabar Commissioners the Cranganore Raja expressed himself in favor of his being placed under Cochin. After a prolonged correspondence with the Raja and the Dutch Governor of Cochin the English East India Company at last decided to allow Cranganore to remain under the Raja of Cochin until a final decision was taken in the matter. This arrangement was later ratified by the British Government. As Vanneri was under the possession of the Zamorin at the time Haider conquered Malabar, Cochin’s claim to this tract was disallowed by the English East India Company. However, the claim of Cochin to the tract of territory known as Chittilappilly in the Trichur Taluk was upheld by the Company in preference to that of the Zamorin. The formal treaty was signed on 6th January 1791 but negotiations for the treaty took place and the terms were settled several months ago. The formal signing was delayed due to the death of the Raja in August 1790, but the treaty was to have effect from the 25th September.Sakthan Thampuran Palace, Thrissur
This Palace named as Vadakkekara Palace, was reconstructed in Kerala-Dutch Style in 1795 by Sri. Ramavarma Thampuran of the erstwhile princely state of Cochin, well known as Sakthan Thampuran, and is preserved by Archaeological Department.The wave of Nationalism and political consciousness which swept through the country since the early decades of this century has its repercussions in the District as well.
Even as early as 1919, a committee of the Indian National Congress was functioning in Thrissur. In the Civil Disobedience Movement of 1921, several persons in Thrissur Town and other places in the District took active part and courted arrest.
Thrissur District can claim the honor of having been in the forefront of the country-wide movement for Temple entry and abolition of untouchability. The famous Guruvayur Satyagraha is a memorable episode in the history of the national movement.
The Government of Cochin under the guidance of Sri. R.K.Shanmughom Chetti followed a policy of conciliation. By degrees, the public demand for the introduction of responsible Government in the State grew strong. In August 1938 Cochin announced a scheme for reforming the State Legislature and introducing a system as per the Government of India Act 1919 in the British Indian provinces. The administration of certain department was entrusted to an elected member of the Legislature to be nominated by the Maharaja. In the elections to the reformed Legislature, two political parties, viz. the Cochin State Congress and the Cochin Congress won 12 and 13 seats respectively. With the help of a few independents, Ambat Sivarama Menon, who was the leader of the Cochin Congress Party, took up office as Minister under the scheme in June 1938. On his Death in August1938 Dr. A. R. Menon was appointed as Minister. When the State Legislature passed a vote of no-confidence against him, Dr. Menon resigned the office on February 25, 1942 and he was succeeded by Sri. T. K. Nari. Sri. Nair was in office till July 11, 1945.
The introduction of diarchy did not satisfy the political aspirations of the people of Cochin. The idea of full responsible Government on the basis of adult franchise had caught their imagination. On January 26, 1941 a new political organization called the Cochin State Praja Mandal took shape on the initiative of a few young politicians under the leadership of Sri. V. R. Krishnan Ezhuthachan.
The Quit India movement of 1942 had its echoes in the District. After the release of the leaders from jail in 1943, the Cochin State Praja Mandal pursued its organizational activities more vigorously. In the election to the State Legislature in 1945, it won 12 of the 19 seats contested by its candidates. At the annual conference of the Praja Mandal held at Ernakulam in 1946, it was decided to start a state wide movement for the achievement of a responsible Government. The State Legislature was scheduled to meet on July 29, and it was decided that the day should be observed all over the State as Responsible Government Day. In pursuance of this decision, meeting and demonstrations were held all over the State demanding the end of Dewan’s rule and the transfer of full political power to the elected representatives of the people. The Maharaja of Cochin announced in August 1946 decision to transfer all departments of the State Government, Except Law and Order and Finance, to the control of Minister responsible to the State Legislature. In co-operation with other parties in the State Legislature, the Cochin State Praja Mandal decided to accept the offer. Consequently the first popular Cabinet of Cochin consisting of Panampilly Govinda Menon, C.R.Iyyunni, K. Ayyappan and T. K. Nair assumed office.
The first step towards the achievement of the goal of Aikyakerala was taken with the integration of Travancore Cochin States in July 1949. With the linguistic reorganization of States in India in November 1956,the Kerala State came into existence.
The wave of nationalism and political consciousness, which swept through the country since the early decades of this century, had its repercussions in the District as well.
Even as early as 1919, a committee of the Indian National Congress was functioning in Thrissur. In the Civil Disobedience Movement of 1921, several persons in Thrissur Town and other places in the District took active part and courted arrest.
Thrissur District can claim the honor of having been in the forefront of the country-wide movement for Temple entry and abolition of untouchability. The famous Guruvayur Satyagraha is a memorable episode in the history of the national movement.
Athirappilly Waterfalls And Vazhachal Waterfalls
These two waterfalls are situated close to Chalakudy in Thrissur District in Kerala. The enchanting landscape of Athirappilly and Vazhachal waterfalls presents a visual extravagance to visitors coming on vacation. These waterfalls are on the border of Sholayar forest ranges and both are located with a distance of 5 kms. apart by each. The silvery water cascading down from a height of about 80 kms. from the mountain tops of Athirappilly and Vazhachal sites and crashing against the rocky slopes at the bottom, will leave a visitor transfixed. The falling water at the bottom flows in to the Chalakudy River. A visitor can also have a thrilling view from the top of the waterfalls, when he/she walks through the rocky way that leads to waterfall area. Those with a passion for adventure can also have a fantastic view of the waterfalls from bottom, by avoiding the trekking on slippery rocky ground. It will be a thrilling experience to let the spray of the foamy water cascade down on your body with a tickling sensation!
Both these waterfalls can be treacherous during the monsoon season, when the ground becomes slippery.
Most ideal time to visit the Athirappilly and Vazhachal waterfalls is from July to September. Chapra falls (situated 1.5 kms. from Athirappilly) ; Dream World Amusement Parks (24 kms. from Athirappilly) and Silver Storm Amusement Parks (about 30 kms. from Athirappilly) are also other tourist attractions.
Ayyappa Temple/Aarattupuzha Pooram
The Ayyappa Temple at Aarattupuzha, just 14 kms. South of Thrissur Town, is a renowned tourist spot. The Aarattupuzha Pooram celebrated in March every year draws thousands of people. Large number of beautifully caparisoned elephants with glitter of gold and blazing colors and followed by colored umbrellas and parasols make this Pooram festival quite memorable.The Tempo of this Pooram festival is also heightened by the quintessential Kerala music viz. Panchavadhyam, Nadaswaram, Pancharimelam and pandimelam etc. It is believed that on this day of Aarattupuzha Pooram, Hundred and one god and Goddesses of the neighboring villages had visited Sree Ayyappan, the presiding deity of Aarattupuzha Temple.
The aarattu ritual ( holy bath of the idol of the deity) is performed with great pomp and gaiety in the Aarattupuzha River on the following day of the Pooram.
The aarattu ritual ( holy bath of the idol of the deity) is performed with great pomp and gaiety in the Aarattupuzha River on the following day of the Pooram.
Bible Tower
Thrissur can boast of Asia’s tallest Bible Tower towering 260 feet. It was inaugurated on January 7,2007 by his Excellency most Rev. Dr. Pedro Lopez Quintana and dedicated for world peace. This Tower is situated in the famous Shrine Basilica of our Lady of Dolores, foundation stone of which was laid on 21 December 1929 by Mar Francis Vazhappilly, the late Bishop of Thrissur.
The New Bible Tower built on January 7, 2007 has lift services. The lift is capable of taking people up to 48.768 meters (160 feet), where a viewer’s platform also stands made to accommodate up to 250 people. This Bible Tower is also known to be the first Christian gallery of Kerala. If viewed from the top of this Bible Tower, the city can be seen over an area of 18 kilometers. The Tower building has been certified as Earthquake-proof by the Geological Department of India. The wooden door of the Tower has been inscribed with-words from the Bible revealing the whole life of Jesus and history of early Church. The wooden Carvings represent the life of Infant Jesus. The healing of the sick is depicted on stain glass. The Brass etching works show the miracles performed by Jesus. The art works have also an oil painting about the passion of Jesus Christ. Also resurrection of Jesus is depicted in bright canvas, and mural paintings on the life of St. Thomas.
This place is worth visiting by all.
The New Bible Tower built on January 7, 2007 has lift services. The lift is capable of taking people up to 48.768 meters (160 feet), where a viewer’s platform also stands made to accommodate up to 250 people. This Bible Tower is also known to be the first Christian gallery of Kerala. If viewed from the top of this Bible Tower, the city can be seen over an area of 18 kilometers. The Tower building has been certified as Earthquake-proof by the Geological Department of India. The wooden door of the Tower has been inscribed with-words from the Bible revealing the whole life of Jesus and history of early Church. The wooden Carvings represent the life of Infant Jesus. The healing of the sick is depicted on stain glass. The Brass etching works show the miracles performed by Jesus. The art works have also an oil painting about the passion of Jesus Christ. Also resurrection of Jesus is depicted in bright canvas, and mural paintings on the life of St. Thomas.
This place is worth visiting by all.
Chavakkad Beach
Chavakkad beach is known as one of the tourist beaches along the West Coast. It is 5 kms. away from Guruvayur in Thrissur District. It is a unique beach known for its natural wonder making the sea Confluence with a river. The meeting point of Sea with river is known as Azhimokham in Kerala. Like Chavakkad Beach, the beach at Nattika also offers a beautiful view of irresistible landscape.
It is a wonderful experience to enjoy the sunset in the evening. When the sun is about to set in, one can have a beautiful new of the fishing boats approaching sea shore from far, the boats looking tiny and silhouetted against the golden rays of the setting sun and sky lines.
It is a wonderful experience to enjoy the sunset in the evening. When the sun is about to set in, one can have a beautiful new of the fishing boats approaching sea shore from far, the boats looking tiny and silhouetted against the golden rays of the setting sun and sky lines.
Cheraman Juma Masjid
As oldest Mosque in Kerala and as second oldest in the world, Cheraman Juma Masjid is situated at kodungalloor in Kerala. It is believed that in 629 AD, a group of Arabs led by Malik Ben Deenar and Malik Bin Habib arrived in North Kerala and constructed this Mosque at kodungalloor. The dead bodies of some of the original followers of Mohammed are said to be buried here. Unlike other mosques that face westwards, this mosque faces East wards. Cheraman Juma Masjid is built in traditional Hindu architecture. This mosque has an ancient oil lamp which always keeps burning and is believed to be more than a 1000year old. People of all religious faith come to this mosque bringing oil for this lamp as offering. This is one of the few Mosques in Kerala allowing entry to people of all the religious faith.
Chimmony Dam
Chimmony Dam is located in Echippara village in Varantharappilly Town, 42kms. from Thrissur. This is a wildlife sanctuary established in 1984 over an area of about 100 kms. on the Western slopes of Nelliyampathy hills. Wild animals like Elephants, deer, wolves etc. can be seen in this sanctuary. The speciality of this Dam is that the water impounded in the reservoir is made available to the kole land fields through the river /canal by means of regulator. The kole land is known for its unique system of cultivation. This project aims at raising two crops from 13000 Ha (Net) and also generating power of 2.5mw. The water released from this Dam is also utilized for drinking purpose. This was fully commissioned and dedicated to the Nation only in 1996.
Kauthuka Park
Kauthuka park is situated on the way to Athirappally waterfalls at Chalakudy in Thrissur. This park offers a wide range of trees and herbal plants having medicinal values. The park has also a collection of utensils and agricultural appliances of the bygone era.
Koodalmanikyam Sree Bharatha Temple
Koodalmanikyam Sree Bharatha Temple is situated on Kodungallur route, 25kms. away from Thrissur. The distinctive feature of this temple is that there is only a single Prathista here. The ‘Mukkudi Nivedyam’ and Brinjal Nivedyam offered on the day of ‘Avittam’ star in the Malayalam month of ‘Thulam’, is very famous. The lord at koodalmanikyam is Chathurbahu Vishnu with Conch , Chakra, Gada and Japamala.
This is the only Temple in India dedicated to Lord Bharataha, the brother of Sree Rama. It is believed that the Lord is Bharatha. When Rama was sent in exile for fourteen years, Bharatha anxiously and devotedly waited till return of Rama from exile. Then he learnt from Hanuman that Rama had reached the outskirts of Ayodhya. Bharatha felt very much relieved and happy on hearing this news. So, Bharatha was worshipped in this Temple. Koodalmanikyam Temple excels in architecture. The impressive gateways to the temple, its round- shaped sanctum Sanctorum, the majestic Koothambalam and the beautiful wooden and stone carvings on the walls etc. stand out as fine examples of rich art and architecture. The murals on the walls on either sides of the Eastern entry to Chuttambalam are also very beautiful and worth watching.
This is the only Temple in India dedicated to Lord Bharataha, the brother of Sree Rama. It is believed that the Lord is Bharatha. When Rama was sent in exile for fourteen years, Bharatha anxiously and devotedly waited till return of Rama from exile. Then he learnt from Hanuman that Rama had reached the outskirts of Ayodhya. Bharatha felt very much relieved and happy on hearing this news. So, Bharatha was worshipped in this Temple. Koodalmanikyam Temple excels in architecture. The impressive gateways to the temple, its round- shaped sanctum Sanctorum, the majestic Koothambalam and the beautiful wooden and stone carvings on the walls etc. stand out as fine examples of rich art and architecture. The murals on the walls on either sides of the Eastern entry to Chuttambalam are also very beautiful and worth watching.
Lourdes Cathedral
When Thrissur District was under the Control of Dutch and British invaders, they had created several beautiful Churches. The Lourdes Cathedral is one of the beautiful Churches built during this period. This Church located in the heart of Thrissur Town in Kerala State, stands dedicated to our Lady of Lourdes. Lourdes Church is very famous and notable for its impressive interior work.
The main attraction of Lourdes Church is an underground shrine said to have been planned and constructed by Fr. John Maliakkal. This underground shrine is a masterpiece of fine architecture designing. The exterior of this Church features an Indo- European façade with pink spires. The Centenary Celebration of this Church was held during the historic visit of Pope John Paul II to Thrissur in 1986.
Thousands of pilgrims throng to visit Lourdes Cathedral every month.
The main attraction of Lourdes Church is an underground shrine said to have been planned and constructed by Fr. John Maliakkal. This underground shrine is a masterpiece of fine architecture designing. The exterior of this Church features an Indo- European façade with pink spires. The Centenary Celebration of this Church was held during the historic visit of Pope John Paul II to Thrissur in 1986.
Thousands of pilgrims throng to visit Lourdes Cathedral every month.
Mammiyur Temple
Mammiyur temple or known as Mammiyur Mahadeva Kshetram is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is situated close to Guruvayoor temple in Thrissur District, Kerala. The beautiful paintings on the wall and exquisite sculpture add to the splendor and grandeur of the Mammiyur Temple. According to the belief in ritual procedures, a devotee going to Guruvayoor temple is also supposed to visit Mammiyur temple. Only Hindus are allowed to enter the temle premises.
This temple is associated with a history. Sri. Krishna built a big temple at Dwaraka and installed his idol.At the time of Swargaarohana, Lord Krishna instructed his devotee Udhava to install the idol at a sacred place with the help of Brihaspathi, the guru of the Devas and Vayu, the Wind God. They (Guru and Vayu) took the idol and came down to a place in South and installed it. Thus the place where the idol was installed came to be called ‘guruvayoor’. ‘Oor’ means ‘desam’ or place. So the name ‘Guruvayoor’ is made up of Guru + Vayu + Oor.it is also believed that on this auspicious occasion, the Lord Shiva and his wifeParvathy were present. But for want of space in the temple premises, Shiva moved to some distance away from there and gave his blessings from the nearby Mammiyoor temple-just ten minutes of walk from Guruvayoor.
This temple is associated with a history. Sri. Krishna built a big temple at Dwaraka and installed his idol.At the time of Swargaarohana, Lord Krishna instructed his devotee Udhava to install the idol at a sacred place with the help of Brihaspathi, the guru of the Devas and Vayu, the Wind God. They (Guru and Vayu) took the idol and came down to a place in South and installed it. Thus the place where the idol was installed came to be called ‘guruvayoor’. ‘Oor’ means ‘desam’ or place. So the name ‘Guruvayoor’ is made up of Guru + Vayu + Oor.it is also believed that on this auspicious occasion, the Lord Shiva and his wifeParvathy were present. But for want of space in the temple premises, Shiva moved to some distance away from there and gave his blessings from the nearby Mammiyoor temple-just ten minutes of walk from Guruvayoor.
Peechi Dam
Peechi Dam is the main irrigation project and situated 23 kms. away from Thrissur. Once started as an irrigation project, Peechi has now become a popular picnic spot attracting large number of visitors every day. There are boating facilities available at the Reservoir. This Dam built across the Manali River has a huge catchment area stretching up to nearly 3200 acres of land. 17555 Ha land in Mukundapuram, Thalappally, Thrissur and Chavakkad taluk comes under irrigation with the use of water from Peechi Dam through the left and right bank’s main canal and its branch canals. Apart from using the water from its reservoir for irrigation purposes, its water is also supplied by the Thrissur municipal Corporation as drinking water to the people living in the city limits and in eight Panchayats.
The beautifully maintained botanical gardens and colorful fountains add a splendid look to the place. The Peechi wildlife sanctuary, located just 15kms. away from Thrissur, is also a big attraction to the tourists. Also there are number of small and beautifully landscaped places around Peechi and the town, which require to be sight-seen.
The beautifully maintained botanical gardens and colorful fountains add a splendid look to the place. The Peechi wildlife sanctuary, located just 15kms. away from Thrissur, is also a big attraction to the tourists. Also there are number of small and beautifully landscaped places around Peechi and the town, which require to be sight-seen.
Basilica Of Our Lady Of Dolours (OR KNOWN AS PUTHEN PALLY)
Basilica of our lady of Dolours (Puthen Pally) is known as the biggest and tallest Church in Asia. It is situated in the heart of the city of Thrissur in Kerala. This Church built in Gothic style of architecture over an area of25, 000 sq. ft. (2,300 m2) is also considered to be the largest Church in India. It has soaring belfries at the entrance, double storied aisles all along the nave and transepts and eleven altars, five on either side of the main one. Its interior decoration is superb and includes five specimens of murals, images of saints and various scenes from the Holy Scriptures. It has an array of 15 altars and musical church bells imported from Germany. The ceiling is decorated with marvelous mural paintings of the holy trinity. The Church has kept for view the pulpit and the throne used by John Paul II during his visit in 1986.
The construction of Basilica of our Lady of Dolours was done in different phases and the first phase was started in the year1929. The two front towers of this Church are of 146’ (45 m.) height each and the central tower of 260’ (79 m.) height. Thus this Church is known as the tallest Church in India. Completion of these towers was itself an architectural challenge.
The Architect of this Church was Ambrose Gounder.
The construction of Basilica of our Lady of Dolours was done in different phases and the first phase was started in the year1929. The two front towers of this Church are of 146’ (45 m.) height each and the central tower of 260’ (79 m.) height. Thus this Church is known as the tallest Church in India. Completion of these towers was itself an architectural challenge.
The Architect of this Church was Ambrose Gounder.
Punnathur Kota
Punnathur Kota was once known as the Palace of a local ruler, but later it became an Elephant park belonging to the Guruvayoor Temple. This elephant park, renamed as Anakkotta (meaning “Elephant Fort”) is situated 34 kms. away from Thrissur and close to Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple. There are currently 86 elephants housed in Anakkotta and these elephants are given to the temple as ritual offerings by various devotees of Lord Guruvayurappa.
At the Elephant Fort (Anakkotta),elephants are trained to participate in many Temple festivals that occur throughout the year. There are elephants of all ages, including very small ones to old ones. The visiting hours to come to Anakkotta are from 9.30 to 17.30
At the Elephant Fort (Anakkotta),elephants are trained to participate in many Temple festivals that occur throughout the year. There are elephants of all ages, including very small ones to old ones. The visiting hours to come to Anakkotta are from 9.30 to 17.30
Shakthan Thampuran Palace
Shakthan Thampuran Palace is a blend of traditional Kerala and Dutch architectural style. This Palace was once known as Vadakkechira Kovilakam and later renamed as Sakthan Thampuran Palace after king Rama Varma Shakthan Thampuran-the founder of Thrissur Town.
Shakthan Thampuran Palace is one of the most important cultural, architectural and historic palaces of the Erstwhile Maharaja of Cochin and spread over an area of six acres.
There are three tombs here including the tomb of Shakthan Tampuran. A flagpole dating back to 1827, and a royal insignia of two elephants, a conch and a lamp in the porch herald welcome to a visitor. The Palace has been well preserved with materials and galleries relating to the erstwhile rulers of Kochi. Inside the complex, one can see a shake Temple. The Museum here has the largest collection of excavated megalithic materials in Kerala. One can also find a collection of ancient coins. In addition, the galleries display the treasury, the Royal bedroom and the Royal kitchen utensils apart from bronzes, weapons and stamps. This Palace is now under the care and control of the Archeological Department.
The Palace has also a botanical garden close to it. There is also one another garden here, where medicinal plants are grown.
Shakthan Thampuran Palace is one of the most important cultural, architectural and historic palaces of the Erstwhile Maharaja of Cochin and spread over an area of six acres.
There are three tombs here including the tomb of Shakthan Tampuran. A flagpole dating back to 1827, and a royal insignia of two elephants, a conch and a lamp in the porch herald welcome to a visitor. The Palace has been well preserved with materials and galleries relating to the erstwhile rulers of Kochi. Inside the complex, one can see a shake Temple. The Museum here has the largest collection of excavated megalithic materials in Kerala. One can also find a collection of ancient coins. In addition, the galleries display the treasury, the Royal bedroom and the Royal kitchen utensils apart from bronzes, weapons and stamps. This Palace is now under the care and control of the Archeological Department.
The Palace has also a botanical garden close to it. There is also one another garden here, where medicinal plants are grown.
Sree Rama Temple
This Temple is situated at Thriprayar about 24 kms. away from Thrissur. It is believed that once a river had skirted the temple on three sides and hence they place came to be called as Thirupuriyar or most popularly called as Triprayar. This Temple has exquisite wood carvings, sculptures and mural paintings. The Thriprayar temple was originally under the domain of the Zamorin rulers of Kerala. During the Onam festival in the months of August/September, snake boat race is conducted here. The Eakadashi festival is also observed in the months of November-December
There is a local legend associated with this Temple. According to the legend, this Temple was originally believed to be worshipped by Sri Krishna at Dwaraka on saurashtra coast in Gujarat. When Dwaraka was sub-merged in water, the idol of Sri Rama was lying in the sea bed along with idols of Lakshmana, Bharatha and Shatrughna. After many centuries, when some fishermen were fishing in the sea, the idol of Rama got entangled in the fishing net along with other idols. The fishermen brought the idols ashore and handed over same to the local chieftain Vikkal Kaimal. He consulted the astrologers and found out the past history of these idols. At that time there was a devine ‘asari’ and according to this, the idol of Sri Rama was commanded to be installed at the place, where a peacock would be visible in the sky. Soon all preparations were made for installation of the idol, but for several days no peacock could be sighted over the place in the sky. Lastly, a devotee pilgrim came to the spot carrying a bunch of peacock feathers, followed by a live peacock also. The idol of Sri Rama was installed at that very spot where the peacock feathers and the live peacock were found.
There is a local legend associated with this Temple. According to the legend, this Temple was originally believed to be worshipped by Sri Krishna at Dwaraka on saurashtra coast in Gujarat. When Dwaraka was sub-merged in water, the idol of Sri Rama was lying in the sea bed along with idols of Lakshmana, Bharatha and Shatrughna. After many centuries, when some fishermen were fishing in the sea, the idol of Rama got entangled in the fishing net along with other idols. The fishermen brought the idols ashore and handed over same to the local chieftain Vikkal Kaimal. He consulted the astrologers and found out the past history of these idols. At that time there was a devine ‘asari’ and according to this, the idol of Sri Rama was commanded to be installed at the place, where a peacock would be visible in the sky. Soon all preparations were made for installation of the idol, but for several days no peacock could be sighted over the place in the sky. Lastly, a devotee pilgrim came to the spot carrying a bunch of peacock feathers, followed by a live peacock also. The idol of Sri Rama was installed at that very spot where the peacock feathers and the live peacock were found.
Vadakkumnathan Temple
Vadakkumnathan temple (also known as Thenkailasam and Vrishabhachalam) is known as one of the largest and most ancient Shiva Temples of Kerala. This temple is surrounded by a massive stone wall enclosing an area of 9 acres (36,000 m2). It is a fine specimen of classic Kerala style of architecture.
Inside the fortification, four Gopurams are situated each facing North. The temple theatre is called as koothambalam, which is one of its only kind having no parallel to it anywhere else in the world. Similarly, the four magnificent gateways known as Gopurams and the lofty masonry wall around the Temple quadrangle etc. are the imposing pieces of amazing craftsmanship and skill.
The deities installed in the sacred shrine are Lord Paramashiva, Parvathy, Sankaranarayana, Ganapathy, Sri Rama and Sri Krishna. The Vadakkumnathan Temple is also very renowned for its beautiful mural paintings and carvings. The central shrines and Koothambalam bear testimony to the finest example of design and sculpture work in wood. According to myth, this temple was constructed by Parasurama. The vast area in and around the temple is the location of ‘Thrissur Pooram’-the famous temple or cultural festival of Kerala held in every year during the months April-May. ‘Thrissur Pooram’ is a festival of Gods, caparisoned elephants, glitter of gold and blazing colors. Throbbing percussion beats followed by quintessential Kerala music and spectacular display of fireworks etc. also add to the splendor of this greatest show on the Earth!
Inside the fortification, four Gopurams are situated each facing North. The temple theatre is called as koothambalam, which is one of its only kind having no parallel to it anywhere else in the world. Similarly, the four magnificent gateways known as Gopurams and the lofty masonry wall around the Temple quadrangle etc. are the imposing pieces of amazing craftsmanship and skill.
The deities installed in the sacred shrine are Lord Paramashiva, Parvathy, Sankaranarayana, Ganapathy, Sri Rama and Sri Krishna. The Vadakkumnathan Temple is also very renowned for its beautiful mural paintings and carvings. The central shrines and Koothambalam bear testimony to the finest example of design and sculpture work in wood. According to myth, this temple was constructed by Parasurama. The vast area in and around the temple is the location of ‘Thrissur Pooram’-the famous temple or cultural festival of Kerala held in every year during the months April-May. ‘Thrissur Pooram’ is a festival of Gods, caparisoned elephants, glitter of gold and blazing colors. Throbbing percussion beats followed by quintessential Kerala music and spectacular display of fireworks etc. also add to the splendor of this greatest show on the Earth!
Vadanapilly Beach
Vadanapilly beach is known as one of the most preferred and beautiful beaches on the costal belt of Thrissur District-about 20kms. Away from the town.
The serene ambience and lush coconut palms bordering the shorelines and its golden sand glistening on the beach make it more impressive and majestic in look!
It will be an unforgettable experience to spend the evening by sitting on the beach and listening to the rusting sound of the coconut palms while swaying in the wind. It will also be very pleasant to watch the big fishing boats appear so small while approaching the shore from a distance in the sea and also to watch the waves swell and raise in the sea and finally strike against the shore lines with its splashing sound.
The serene ambience and lush coconut palms bordering the shorelines and its golden sand glistening on the beach make it more impressive and majestic in look!
It will be an unforgettable experience to spend the evening by sitting on the beach and listening to the rusting sound of the coconut palms while swaying in the wind. It will also be very pleasant to watch the big fishing boats appear so small while approaching the shore from a distance in the sea and also to watch the waves swell and raise in the sea and finally strike against the shore lines with its splashing sound.
Vazhani Dam
Vazhani is one of the biggest clay dams in Kerala with a length of 792.48 metres. It is situated 23 kms. away from Thrissur District. The water from this dam is mainly used for drinking and irrigation purposes. Vazhani Dam and its garden present a spectacular view. This place is one of the main tourist attractions of Thrissur District.
Poomala Dam
This dam is situated 15 kms . away from Thrissur town . Poomala is one of the most popular tourist hill stations in India. The dam is called as Poomala dam because of its location in the Poomala hill. From the top of this hill, one can view Thrissur town.
The specialty of this dam is that it was constructed with mud and stone. The waters of this dam are used for irrigational purposes.
The specialty of this dam is that it was constructed with mud and stone. The waters of this dam are used for irrigational purposes.
Vilangan Kunnu
Vilangan kunnu, the hillock, is situated 7 kms. away from Thrissur. This hillock stands converted as an amusement park by the Tourism Department and is known as a popular picnic spot. There is a beautiful children’s park on this hill slope and it offers amusement rides to the children and also serves as a playground .From the hill top ,one can relish the scenic beauty and kole wetlands of Thrissur.
This hill top is also a vantage point to view the setting sun take its plunge in the western horizon ,making the sky lines glow with redness as if the sea was set on fire .
The visitors coming via Thrissur- Kunnamkulam route can reach here by travelling just 5 kms by road.
This hill top is also a vantage point to view the setting sun take its plunge in the western horizon ,making the sky lines glow with redness as if the sea was set on fire .
The visitors coming via Thrissur- Kunnamkulam route can reach here by travelling just 5 kms by road.
State Museum And Zoo
Thrissur’s Zoo and museum are very old and were set up in 1885. Located in the heart of Thrissur on an area of 13.5 areas of land and 2 kms away from the town, it has a good collection of fauna like the Lion, tailed macaque , sloth bear , deer and species of birds . The snake park has also a good collection of some of the major varieties of reptiles like king cobras , cobras , python , kraits , vipers , and rat snake etc. Both the zoo and museum offer many things for the students to see. There is a small art museum within the zoo premises showing fine wood carvings , metal sculptures, Kathakali figures , ancient jewellery and a rare collection of traditional Kerala lamps. It also houses a large number of historic items such as swords , jewellery , rocks and stuffed butterflies etc.
