THRISSUR

A gracious and evergreen city spread over seven hills, Thiruvananthapuram, capital of Kerala, is steeped in history and culture. Located in the extreme south of the state, its shores are washed by the warm waters of the Arabian Sea. This is a city where time moves gracefully with the day unfolding according to time honoured rhythms, qualities which make it one of the best cities in the country. Holding fort in the heart of the capital is Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu who reclines on the serpent Anantha and after whom the city is named. Formerly called Trivandrum, the city’s original name was restored in 1991.

As the visitor moves around the city he or she cannot fail to notice many traditional elements of Kerala culture that have been passed down from generations. From temple elephants swaggering down a street to traditionally dressed women and men as well as people eating off banana leaves, the sights are many and often found only in this part of the country.

POPULAR TOURIST SPOTS

Vilangan Kunnu

The oxygen jar of the city of Thrissur, Vilangan Kunnu is a hillock located near the city. From its top, one can get a fine view of the Thrissur city and Thrissur Kole Wetlands. Lying in the heart of Kerala backwaters, the lake is famous for its scenic beauty.

Athirappilly Waterfalls

On the outskirts of the city at a distance of some 60 km, the Athirappilly waterfalls mark one of the best places to visit in Thrissur. Standing 80 ft tall and about 330 ft wide, these falls are the largest in the state of Kerala. It is a perennial picnic spot for people.

Dolours Basilica

Our Lady of Dolours Basilica, known as Puthen Pally, has the distinction of being the biggest church in India with a tower, said to be third tallest in Asia. It has an area of 25,000 sq. ft., and is 261 ft. tall. It is adjacent to the Martha Marian church.

Punnathur Kotta

Not so far away from the Guruvayoor Temple lies one of the best Thrissur tourist places. An Elephant Sanctuary, the Punnathur Kotta was initially a palace belonging to a local ruler. It was then converted to a house of elephants and now has the highest number captive elephant, about 59 of them.

Chettuva Backwater

Starting from the Enamakkal Lake, the backwater runs through until ending in an estuary at the point where it meets the Arabian sea. One of the most important characters in this spot being known the world over are the mangroves here. Prepare yourself to see some of the most amazing water beauties around.

Kerala Kalamandalam

A University of Art and Culture, Kerala Kalamandir is a Government of India recognized institution dedicated to providing learning in the many performing arts native to India. The Kerala Kalamandalam was what gave three main arts of Kerala a new life, namely Kathakali, Kudiyattam, and Mohiniyattam.