If you have ever watched Bahubali- the highest-grossing film of Indian cinema, then I am sure you might have wondered where its beautiful opening scenes were shot? Thrissur it was! Popularly known as the Cultural Capital of Kerala, Thrissur is one of the most popular tourist attractions. It is an ideal destination to visit with your family or loved ones because the liveliness and the natural beauty of the city will make your stay here worthwhile.
So hop along. Let's go to Thrissur!
Sri Vadakkunnathan Temple
This temple in Thrissur is a must-visit by all travelers for its architecture and religious significance. Local lore has it that this was the first temple built by Parsuram, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. As for the architecture, this temple has authentic Kerala architecture and is famous for its murals depicting various scenes from the Mahabharata and the vignettes carved in woods on the Koothambalam i.e. a temple theater
Athirappilly WaterFalls
If visiting Niagara Falls is on your wishlist but you are finding yourself short on budget then I am here to help you out. Instead, book your ticket to Thrissur and visit the “Niagara Falls of India”- Athirappilly Water Falls. Flowing through the verdant greenery of Vanhachal forest, this magnanimous waterfall creates a spectacular vista for its visitors. If you want to experience the fall in its full glory then trek down to the bottom of the fall and the site you will witness will surely remain embedded in your mind for eternity.
Snehatheeram Beach
The fact that this place has been chosen as the “Most Preferred Tourist Destination” through a survey by the Kerala Government, speaks leaps and bounds for this place. And why not? Its well-kept shores along with the scenic beauty of the sun, the warm sand, and the Arabian Sea create the most picturesque view one can get in Kerala.
Locals come here to break free from the mundane life and refresh themselves while for the travelers this place creates an altogether different experience that they would love to have with their family and people they love. So if you ever set foot in Thrissur, Kerala makes some time and visit this beach. I am sure your camera rolls will be filled with memories you would love to cherish.
Kerala Kalamandalam
All the art and culture lovers, Kerala Kalamandalam is the place you would not want to miss out on. Deemed as the most prestigious Kathakali School in the world, this institution has managed to preserve and promote the artistic excellence of Kerala. The performances fostered in its quaint charms are a treat to watch. The carnatic music of the Panchavadyam(5 instruments played together), is a melody to listen to and feeling the recitals in the hallowed halls of Koothambalam is an ethereal experience.
A feature of this kalamandalam that stands out are the Koothambalam’s granite pillars. They could be seen having all one hundred and eight karanas(dnce-poses) inscribed on them. So dedicate one evening at Thrissur to the artist in you and witness this ancient dance form in its most pure and simple atmosphere.
Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Vaishnavi (an avatar of Goddess Durga), this temple bears evidence to the progressive golden era of Indian culture before it was corrupted by all the invading forces. This temple is known for its architecture and for “ Palachottil Melom”- the temple orchestra that engulfs the entire temple in its calming music. Don’t forget to pay homage to the deity and seek her blessings
Things to Do in Thrissur:
1) Thrissur Pooram Festival– It is a resplendent festival celebrated with a grand display of elephants. An annual festival of Thrissur that best describes it as the cultural capital of India. If you happen to visit Thrissur in the months of April or May do try to catch this festival as it’s a magnificent amalgamation of the spirit and culture of kerala.No words can ever describe the energetic vibe of Thrissur during this festival.
2) Archaeological Museum- All the history buffs, pay attention! I suggest you do pay a visit to this museum because it offers you historical relics you won’t find elsewhere. The palm leaf manuscripts, Veerakallu, or engraved stones depicting warriors and kings that dominated this part of India, sculptures unearthed all through history some even dating back to Indus Valley Civilization and Harappan shards. I am sure that you will travel back in time on visiting this place.
3) Eat its Delicacies- Do get your hands on Puttu(a breakfast dish where rice is grounded into a cylindrical bamboo container), Vellayappam ( a dish made out of a batter of rice and coconuts), and Meen Porichathu ( a famous fish recipe of this area). They will leave you wanting for more.
4) Jungle Safari and Trekking- Jungle Safari is organized by Kerala tourism from the dense forest of the Sholayar Range in the Western Ghats through Chalakudy to Malakkappara. You can experience wildlife and wilderness at their fullest on this safari. So when you are on a vacation at Athirapally waterfall, this is a highly suggested activity.
A trip to Thrissur Kerala can prove to be the most wholesome trip that you can take. It is dynamic in all its aspects as it has thrill, spirituality, and serenity. It can give you an adrenaline rush but at the same time soothe the soul. Winters are the perfect season to visit this beauty of Kerala and fill your camera rolls with memories you would love to cherish forever.
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