Thrissur – a culturally rich city with some amazing festivals
Thrissur is the third largest city in Kerala. It is one of the cities where you can see a perfect culmination between age-old traditions and the prosperous modern world. The city was originally called “Tiru-Shiva-Peru”, which means “the great city of Lord Shiva”. During the British era, the town was called Trichur, which is the English version of the original name. Furthermore, the city was also called “Vrishabhadri Puram” and “Then Kailasam”, both related to Lord Shiva. Today, the city is one of the important commercial centers of the state and is a modern city that is full of all the parameters of modernization. The city is also home to the Thrissur District Headquarters which was formed upon the country’s independence in 1949. This makes the city politically important. In addition, the city is also a main center of religious learning, which is a long tradition in the city since its origin.
The city shares excellent connectivity. Therefore, accessing it is an easy matter. Thrissur railway station is a major line header in the South Indian Railways rail section and connects the city with all major cities in India. The good thing is that there are certain hotels near Thrissur railway station that are best known for offering a satisfying stay at a reasonable price.
The city is popularly known as the ‘Cultural Capital of Kerala’. There is a large number of temples, churches, spiritual learning centers, mosques, shrines, and dance and literature academies. It is one of the most colorful and festival-rich cities, where every festival is celebrated with more fervor, regardless of religion. Thrissur Pooram, also called “the Pooram of all Poorams”, is the most celebrated festival in the city, taking place between mid-April and mid-May. Kavakli or Puri Kali is the other biggest festival in the city. It is celebrated during Onam and is a major attraction shooter. Trained artists perform different types of art forms and entertain pilgrims and tourists. If it is all about exploring and experiencing the culture, the above-mentioned festivals are the best time for Thrissur tourism.
The literal lineage of the city dates back centuries. It did not take long for the city to acquire religious significance and a center of learning from its origin. The city has one of the oldest and most important temples of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. These are the Vadakkunnathan temple and the Guruvayur temple. In addition to being the main places of worship, the temples were also the main centers of religious learning. It can be said that the city is a melting pot of different religions and cultures. The region was the main entry point from where Christianity, Judaism and Islam entered the Indian subcontinent. The city also came to house the first mosque in India, the Cheraman Juma Masjid in AD 629.
Contemporary Thrissur leans more towards modernization. However, it still places immense importance on its past, tradition and cultural heritage. The city is a nursery for many entrepreneurs. It is one of the most developed cities in Kerala and a proof of the progress of the state. It is a shopper’s paradise. With a series of ultra-modern malls, the city offers rewarding opportunities to shop for everything. Furthermore, these malls are also equipped with some of the best restaurants and places to eat. Some of the major attractions of the city include: Chavakkad Beach, Athirapally Waterfalls, Kerala Kalamandalam, Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary, Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, Vadakkumnathan Temple, State Museum Complex, Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, Bible Tower, Chavakkad Beach, Vazhachal Falls and Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica.
Just visit the city for a memorable vacation. It is advisable to book plane tickets and hotels in Thrissur in advance because during the peak season there are crowds of people eager to book their tickets and hotels.