Explore Places Around Thrissur

Thrissur is the jumping off point for some of the Kerala's most popular destinations. Some of them are as follows :

Irinjalakuda :

Irinjalakuda is small village located at the distance of 20 kms from Thrissur. Although there not much to see in the town, but it is famous for the Koodalmanikyam temple, dedicated to Bharata, the brother of Rama. Only the Hindus are allowed to enter the temple. While making a visit to the temple, men must wear a dhoti. The temple consists of the Kuttambalam theater within its outer courtyard that was built to afford an unimpeded view for the maximum number of spectators. Interiors are decorated with the painted wood carvings of the mythological animals and stories from the various epics. Irinjalakuda
also has two beautiful churches that are worth a visit.

Guruvayur :

33 kms from Thrissur lies, Guruvayur, which is renowned for the Sri Krishna temple, that attracts pilgrims from all over the world. According to the legends, it is created by Guru -the preceptor of the gods, and Vayu, god of wind. The temple was built in the 16th century and is known for the healing powers. There are 28 annual festivals celebrated in the temple, the most important of which are Ekadashi and Ulsavam. The festival of Ekadashi falls in the month of November/December, marked by the caparisoned elephants outside the temple -the exterior of the temple is decorated with the tiny flames of innumerable oil lamps. The festival of Ulsavam is highlighted by the elephant race.

Cheruthuruthy :

The village of Cheruthuruthy , 32 kms from Thrissur is famous as the home Kerala Kalamandalam, which is the training school for Kathakali and other indigenous Keralan performing arts. It was founded in the year 1927 by the revered Keralan poet Vallathol and patronized at first by the Raja of Cochin. Kalamandalam artists perform in the great theaters of the world. It remains open from 9:30 to 1pm.

Natana Kairali Research and Performing Center for Traditional Arts :

Natana Kairali Research and Performing Center for Traditional Arts, LIES 20 Kms from Thrissur near Irinjalakuda. It offers a training in traditional arts including rare forms of puppetry and dance. Even the short appreciation courses are available for the foreigners.