Thrissur, also known to many by its anglicized name Trichur, is known as the cultural capital of Kerala – although it’s fast becoming known as the business hub of Kerala too. With its rich cultural heritage and economic growth, flats in Thrissur have become highly sought after, offering residents a chance to live amidst this scenic and historic city. Thrissur is located centrally in the southern state of Kerala and is built around a 65-acre hillock, which also tells you this is a scenic area.
It is home to many thrilling monuments that have culturally-minded people flocking here in their thousands every year. It is among the oldest sites of settlements with megaliths and dolmans from the Neolithic era being increasingly discovered here. Some of the best places you can visit in and around the city are mentioned below:
Cheraman Juma Masjid
Believed to be the first and oldest mosque built in India, it dates back to 629 AD. Built by a Chera ruler, it’s interestingly designed in the typical Dutch-Kerala and Hindu architectural design.
Vadakkunnathan Temple
Interestingly, this temple finds mention in the ancient Hindu texts called the ‘Puranas’. Being one of the oldest Shiva temples, it’s built-in classic Kerala-style architecture with beautiful murals and depictions of the Mahabharata. Unfortunately, non-Hindus cannot gain entrance.
Our Lady of Dolours Basilica
This is the third tallest church in Asia and the tallest in India, standing at 79 meters, covering an area of 2,300 sq meters. This Indo-Gothic monument with its inspiring statues and paintings and its 11 altars leaves you spell-bound in its exhilarating beauty.
Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple
Located 30km from Thrissur, this is a famous pilgrimage center that attracts lakhs of devotees every year. There is also an extravagant 33.5meter tall flag-post here which is gold-plated. People often visit here for wedding rituals and for the special feelings of serenity they feel here. However, only Hindus are allowed in.
Thrissur Zoo and Archeological Museum
After touring the sprawling zoo and enjoying its variety of flora and fauna, it’s time for some inspiring time visiting the museum. Dating back to 1938, the museum is located within the zoo complex and contains several ancient artifacts, manuscripts, and jewelry as well as some exciting archeological remains from the Stone Age era.
Athirappilly Waterfall
Located in nearby Challakudy, its cascading waters create an awesome sight and its cool waters invite the tourists in for a splash. The best time to visit this famous spot is after the rainy season when the waters have stopped roaring.
There are numerous other interesting places too including beaches, backwaters, elephant sanctuaries, and palaces to enthrall you here.
