THRISSUR

According to legend, the name "Thrissur" is derived from the words Thiru shiva peroor", (the town of Lord Shiva). Later it was shortened as Thrisivaperoor and then as Thrisur. Thrissur is the land of temple festivals known as Pooram. Owing to its cultual heritage, archaeological welth and significant historical background, Thrissur is also known as the cultural capital of Kerala. The architect of the present day Thrissur was Raja Rama Varma, who ruled the princely state of Kochi during 1790s, popularly known as Sakthan Thampuran. Thrissur was constantly under the threat of attack from Zamorin of Kozhikode, Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan, the Dutch and British for a very long period. 
The Pooram festival of Thrissur is world famous. Thrissur is the headquarters of various cultural institutions like Sahithya Academi, Sangeeth Nataka Academy, Lalithakala Academy etc. The only School of Drama under the Calicut University is functioning at Thrissur. Kerala Kalamandalam, the most revered institution established by famous poet Vallathol for the traditional and cultural art forms of Kerala, and the cradle of Kathakali training in India is in the Thrissur district.

Irinjalakkud Koodal Manikyam Temple, the only temple for Bharatha in India is situated in Thrussur District. Cheraman Juma Masjid at Kodungalloor in Thrissur district is built in 629 AD, which was built in 629 AD, is the first mosque in India and the second in the world.

AT A GLANCE

ACCESSING THRISSUR

Telephone Code: +91- 487

TOURIST DESTINATIONS:

Athirappalli: Athirappalli and Vazhachal are two spectacular waterfalls on the Sholayar forest ranges. The Athirappalli Falls joins the Chalakkudy River after dropping down from a height of about 100 feet. Vazhachal is part of the Chalakkudy River itself. Both the waterfalls provide dazzling experience to the tourists.

Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctury: Located 20 km east of Thrissur, the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctury is having plenty of flora and fauna. Once can go for boating also in the lake. It is one of the best spots for nature lovers. There are different kinds of orchids, rare medicinal plants, teak, rosewood, various types of mammals including carnivores like the leopard, the tiger and deer, bison, elephants, snakes and birds. Ponmudi, highest peak in the sanctuary is at the height of 923 m above sea level.

Festivals: Thrissur Pooram, Ashtami at Guruvayoor, Bharani at Kodungallur, Fete of Koratty Muthy (St.Mary's Forane Church), Machattu Mamangam are some of the festivals.

PHOTO ALBUM