Explore Thrissur and Beyond: Top 10 Tourist Destinations for an Unforgettable Trip
When one thinks of Kerala, the lush green landscape, serene backwaters, and ancient temples come to mind. Thrissur, located in central Kerala, embodies all the senses that Kerala brings to life. Known as the Cultural Capital of Kerala, it has an array of temples, museums, wildlife sanctuaries and waterfalls that attract millions of tourists each year.
The top 10 tourist destinations for an unforgettable trip in Thrissur and beyond include:
1. Vadakkumnathan Temple
The iconic Vadakkumnathan Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a 2000-year-old temple located in the heart of Thrissur. The temple’s grandeur and architectural excellence are a testament to the ancient era it was built in.
2. Athirappilly Waterfall
The cascading Athirappilly Waterfall, situated at the Chalakudy River in Thrissur, is one of the largest waterfalls in South India, and it’s a sight to behold.
3. Guruvayur Temple
The Guruvayur Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is one of the most famous temples in India. It’s believed that the temple was consecrated by Lord Krishna himself.
4. Chavakkad Beach
The serene Chavakkad Beach, located 5 km away from Guruvayur, is known for its pristine golden sand and clear waters.
5. Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary
The Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary, located near Guruvayur, houses more than 60 elephants that were gifted by devotees to the temple.
6. Vazhachal Waterfalls
The Vazhachal Waterfalls, a picturesque waterfall located at the Sholayar Forest Range, attracts tourists with its scenic beauty.
7. Shakthan Thampuran Palace
The Shakthan Thampuran Palace, located in the heart of Thrissur, is a beautiful example of Kerela style architecture and houses many antique items and mural paintings.
8. Peechi Dam
The Peechi Dam, located about 20 km from Thrissur, is a beautiful location ideal for picnicking and boating.
9. Chettuva Backwaters
The Chettuva Backwaters, located near the Chettuva Bridge, is a picturesque location, perfect for a peaceful escape.
10. Arattupuzha Pooram
The Arattupuzha Pooram, Kerala’s oldest temple festival, is a yearly celebration that features a grand parade of elephants, caparisoned in colorful decorations, and a plethora of cultural programs.
How to reach there and things to be taken care
Thrissur is easily accessible by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, located about 60 km away from Thrissur. The Thrissur railway station is well connected to major cities of India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.
Where to stay and food specialities nearby
Thrissur offers a wide range of accommodations, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Some of the best hotels near the city center include KTDC Tamarind Thrissur, Joys Palace, and Mayura Residency. Local food specialties include crispy appams, puttu, kadala curry, and pazham pori.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Thrissur is between October to March.
Cultural Customs And Etiquette Guidance
It’s customary to dress conservatively while visiting temples and other religious sites in India. Visitors should also remove their footwear before entering any religious building.
Must-Visit Destinations And Attractions Nearby
Other must-visit destinations near Thrissur include:
– Munnar: famous for its tea plantations, waterfalls, and serene surroundings.
– Cochin: the “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” is known for its rich history, culture, and the beautiful Chinese fishing nets.
– Varkala: a coastal town famous for its beautiful beaches and the Sivagiri Mutt.
Food And Dining Recommendations
Some popular dishes that visitors should not miss include:
– Fish Curry: prepared with freshly caught fish and coconut milk.
– Puttu: a steamed rice cake.
– Idiyappam: rice noodles served with gravy.
Experiences summary of other travelers based on public review of the places
Tourists rate the Athirappilly Waterfall as a must-visit place. They appreciate the water’s force and the sound of falling water. They also admire the lush green environment surrounding the waterfall.
Safety Precautions And Emergency Measures
Tourists should be aware of mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue and Chikungunya. Therefore, it’s recommended to use mosquito repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers, and sleep under a mosquito net.
Language And Communication Tips
The official language in Kerala is Malayalam. However, most locals understand basic English and Hindi.
A list of items as packing and travel essentials
Some essential packing items include:
– Comfortable clothing and shoes
– Sunscreen
– Insect Repellent
– Travel Adaptor
– Cash and Credit Cards
Final summary
Thrissur and its neighboring towns are a perfect place for a vacation that caters to both history enthusiasts and nature lovers, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning waterfalls, backwaters, and beaches.
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