Thrissur Travel Diary: Where Tradition Meets Tranquility

Thrissur is a city located at the heart of Kerala and is described as “God’s own Country”. It has often been called the “Cultural Capital of Kerala” and hosts a blend of history, religiosity, art, and nature. Along the trip, one would find the reasons why to pick Thrissur as a travel destination.

It is seen that all kinds of tourists are visiting Thrissur. Whether it is about history or nature or those looking for a place where they could find some solace, Thrissur offers everything.

How to Reach Thrissur?

Getting to Thrissur is easy due to the proper transport facilities that are available. Here are the various ways you can travel to this vibrant city:

1. By Air

Cochin International Airport is the nearest major airport to this city and it is about 50 km south of the city. It boasts of good internal and external connection to the other countries of the world. When one reaches the airport, it is also possible to hire both taxis and buses in order to reach Thrissur.

2. By Train

Thrissur also possesses its own Railway station which is “Thrissur Railway Station (TCR)” It is an important railway station at the heart of Kerala. It connects Thrissur with other cities of India and is vibrant for those traveling between or from big cities such as Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi. The station is well placed and commuters can easily locate it from different parts of the city.

3. By Road

Thrissur is well placed on its roadmaps and it is closely connected to all parts of the state by buses. NH544 running through Ernakulam previously known as NH47 connects it to other cities such as Kochi, Palakkad, and Coimbatore among other cities. To get around from one place to another, one can use state buses, private buses, or personal cars for a beautiful trip. Thrissur is about 300 Km away from Bangalore and 80 Km away from Kochi while it is about 135 kilometres from the airport.

Best Time to Visit Thrissur

Thrissur is one of the famous cultural and historical tourism zones of Kerala, famous for its festivals, temples, and scenic beauty. The best time to visit Thrissur greatly depends upon your choice whether you are looking for a casual vacation or an adventurous expedition. Here’s a breakdown:

1. October to March: Cool and Pleasant Weather

It is less hotter and comfortable at this time hence it is preferred by most tourists for different activities. Well suited for visiting areas such as Vadakkunnathan Temple, Athirappilly Waterfalls, and Zoo at Thrissur.

2. April to May: Festival Season

Hot but exciting, as there also are some festivals that are celebrated months ahead of the others. Thrissur Pooram, one of the biggest temple festivals in Kerala is usually celebrated in April or in May. It involves colourful omes, processions, elephants, and fireworks. Tropical and sub-tropical climate, with short period of rain and shine by day which drops at 30 and rises at 38 Celsius.

3. June to September: Monsoon Magic

The region is characterised by thick vegetation and fresh waterfalls because monsoon is a heavy season. Ideal for those people interested in natural sights and bird or wildlife photographers.

Top Places to Visit in Thrissur

Thrissur, the place known as the “Cultural Capital of Kerala” and the “Kalkulam of Kerala” gives tourists a double delight with its fascinating history, spiritual sites, and scenic islands. Here is a list of the most famous tourist attractions which people can visit while in Thrissur.

1. The Vadakkunnathan Temple

The Vadakkunnathan Temple is, in fact, a World Heritage site that performs the role of the spiritual centre of Thrissur. The Krishna Temple, one of the oldest in Kerala, is a fantastic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, aesthetically carved with a serene environment and vista of the green and beautiful architecture of Kerala. The culturally associated paintings and wood carvings make the temple even more popular. The landscapes have attracted many visitors because they provide a rich history whose environment provides serenity that is desired by many.

2. Athirappilly Waterfalls

Athirappilly Waterfalls will surely capture the hearts of all tourists who enjoy the sight of nature’s beauty. Also known as the Niagara of India, this stunning waterfall stands 80 feet high and the water comes down most reassuringly. Sited amidst the lush green Sholayar ranges, it is an ideal place for having outings, taking photographs, and having contact with nature. Adjacent to it, Vazhachal Waterfalls is another sightseeing, which may not be as wild as Athirampally, but as beautiful though.

3. Thrissur Zoo and State Museum

The Thrissur Zoo and State Museum is one of the most visited sites for families and lovers of animals. Established across a vast piece of land, the zoo contains several animals, birds, and reptiles. The museum which is housed together, displays historical items, sculptures of different eras, and a preview of the artistic heritage and traditions of Kerala.

4. Sakthan Thampuran Palace

Sakthan Thampuran Palace is one of the beleaguered palaces of the Cochin Kingdom and carries forward the history and culture of the ancient land of Kerala. The place has been developed into a museum where many articles, royal property, and other shaky remaining parts of the regal history of Thrissur are preserved and showcased. It has beautifully manicured gardens as well as historical buildings thereby becoming a fascinating place for historical and architectural lovers.

5. Attend Cultural Performances

Drop in the Kerala Kalamandalam, the prime institution of Kerala which houses the more powerful conventional types of performing arts like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam Thullal, etc. You can also take workshops, where you get enlightenment on these traditional arts.