Tour Kerala; Top 10 Temples in Thrissur

Called ‘God’s own Country’, Kerala is a verdant destination in South India, that dances to the rhythm of devotion and spirituality. Thrissur is the cultural capital of Kerala where time stands still as the fragrance of jasmine and sandalwood fills the air.  The temples in Thrissur are adorned with ancient traditions that take you on a whimsical journey into the past. Renowned for its festivals, Thrissur bursts with vibrant colours, pulsating beats of the drums and grand processions all year round. So if you have a trip to Kerala planned, make a pit stop to explore the allure of the temples in Thrissur.

Not sure where to start? Here is a list of the best temples in Thrissur where timeless celebrations and faith go hand in hand:

Vadakkunnathan Temple

One of the oldest temples in India, the roots of this Thrissur temple date back to 4000 years. According to folklore, this temple in Kerala was established by Parasurama, an avatar of Vishnu for Lord Shiva. As you enter the temple, you will notice smaller shrines within its grounds in honour of gods like Ganesha and Shankaranarayana. The positive energy penetrates from every corner, capturing the rich ambience of the region. A cultural hub, many Khatakali performances take place at the Koothambalam, or temple theatre.

Thiruvambady Krishna Temple

Hailing from the 16th century, Thiruvambady Krishna Temple in Thrissur is located near a quaint village, in memory of Unnikrishna or infant Krishna. Incepted in the traditional Kerala designs, the temple itself is modest in size but is adorned with intricate wooden carvings, drawing pilgrims from all over the country. It is also the abode of Devi Vishnumaya, a goddess who followed her most devoted worshipper. The pooja in Thiruvambady Krishna Temple in Thrissur is not just an offering but also an expression of reverence.

Triprayar Shree Rama Temple

Woven in the tapestry of myth and divine grace, this is one of the few temples in Thrissur that is dedicated to Lord Rama. As you set foot inside the temple, you will be taken back by its architecture which includes the circular sreekovil (sanctum) topped with a copper conical roof. The walls are embedded as murals depicting sequences in the Ramayana. This particular spot in Kerala is famous for celebrating Triprayar Ekadashi on a grand scale, by transforming into a carnival.

Mammiyoor Sri Mahadeva Temple

With a dash of vibrant exteriors, history and age-old rituals, Mammiyoor Sri Mahadeva Temple is an ode to Lord Shiva in his most majestic form, Uma Maheshwara. Every religious seeker needs to visit this temple before they pay homage to the nearby Guruvayoor Temple. Built like a complex, this temple in Kerala provides a sense of community. Ashtami Rohini is one of the most prominent occasions here with grand festivities. Mammiyoor Sri Mahadeva is more than a temple in Thrissur, it is a holy d haven of togetherness.

Guruvayur Temple

Popularly known as the abode of Lord Vishnu on Earth or Bhooloka Vaikunta, this temple is a sacred sanctuary enveloped in lush gardens and a serene ambience. Committed to the teachings of Guru Brihaspati and Vayu, the wind god, this is amongst the temples in Thrissur that pay an ode to Lord Krishna. However this is not just a place of worship, but also an architectural marvel. Here, the festival of Ulhasam is marked with great fanfare.

Poonkunnam Shiva Temple

A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, this sanctum is waiting to be discovered by travellers. The idol of Lord Shiva rests in all its glory with serpents ornamented on his neck and a crescent moon gracing his hair. But this temple is not only about Lord Shiva; deities like Ganesha and Ayyappa are also prayed to here. The aroma of incense lingers as the priests chant mantras and bhajans. One such festival that truly stands out in this temple in Kerala is Maha Shivratri when disciples fast and engage in night-long commemorations.

Chakkamkulangara Sree Dharmasastha Temple

Situated in the upbeat town of Thrissur, Chakkamkulangara Sree Dharmasastha Temple is a religious spot that brings artistry and history together.  As per legends, this temple in Kerala was built by the noble sage Vishwamitra, who conceived a destination for the devotees to connect with a higher power. The literal meaning of Chakkamkulangara means ‘the place where the wheel turns’ signifying the constant change and circle of life. The idol of Dharmasastha is portrayed with a calm expression that indicates harmony.

Arattupuzha Sree Sastha Temple

This temple in Thrissur stays true to Lord Ayyappa and is over 3000 years old, with a rich past. It is said that Lord Ayyappa brought about peace amongst the celestial beings during a moment of conflict and made his way towards Earth for aid. Here the great Lord sought shelter near the river. That very spot became Arattupuzha which translates to the place of bathing. One of the most awaited festivals in Kerala, the annual Arattupuzha Pooram, is extravagantly honoured at this temple. 

Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple

Acting as a portal into Kerala’s soul, Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple was built by Sakthan Thampuran, the king of Cochin. It is said that this temple possesses immense power and blessings from the Goddess Vaishnavi ward off evil and bring in good fortune. This is one of the best Thrissur temples embedded in tall pillars and towering gopurams that shed light on strength and perseverance. This temple carries out many zestful processions throughout the year but Navaratri feels like stepping into a mystical dream. 

Sree Kulasekaranallur Shiva Temple, Nedumpura

A gem in Thrissur’s crown, Sree Kulasekaranallur Shiva Temple is present in the countryside of the region. Serving as a doorway to ancient history, this temple comes alive under the gaze of Lord Shiva. Founded during the Chela Dynasty, Sree Kulasekaranallur Shiva Temple is a beacon of the philosophies of life. The totem of Lord Shiva is chiselled out of smooth Blackstone, watching over the devotees with a meditative gaze. So if you seek spirituality or want to dove deep into history, this Thrissur temple is the place to be.

The temples in Thrissur truly shine bright when it comes to devotion and customs. So embark on a devotional trip to Thrissur and immerse yourself in the diverse mosaic of tradition and solace. So plan your next holiday in Kerala and fulfil your quest with meaning by visiting these Thrissur temples. With StayVista’s homestays in Thrissur like The Beach Life, you can also indulge in the local cuisines as well as enjoy the natural bounty of the region. Let hospitality and faith emerge as one, most delightfully!