Thrissur, with its rich history, cultural heritage and archaeological wealth is called the cultural capital of Kerala. From ancient times, this district has played a significant role in the political history of South India. Many rulers and dynasties beginning with the Zamorins of Kozhikode,Tipu Sulthan of Mysore and Europeans including the Dutch and the British have had a hand in moulding the destiny of this region. Raja Rama Varma popularly known as Sakthan Thampuran was the architect of the present Thrissur town. Today Thrissur is the world famous for its Pooram Festival.

Guruvayoor (29 km west of Thrissur): Guruvayoor is one of the most sacred and important pilgrim centers of Kerala. Its main attraction is the Sree Krishna Temple. This historic Temple is shrouded in mystery. According to belief, the temple is the creation of Guru, the preceptor of the Gods, and Vayu, the God of winds. The eastern nada is the main entrance to the shrine. In the Chuttambalam (Outer venclsure) is the tall 33.5 m high Dipastambham (Pillar of Lamps), whose thirteen circular receptacles provide a truly gorgeous spectacle when lit. The square Sreekovili is the sacred sanctum sanctorum of the temple, housing the main deity. Within the temple there are also the images of Ganapathy, Lord Ayyappa and Edathedattu Kavil Bhagavathy. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple.

Accessing Guruvayoor
Air: The nearest international airport: Nedumbassery (87 km)
Road: Guruvayoor is connected by road with several important cities of India.
Rail: Guruvayoor is connected by rail with several important cities.

Punnathoorkotta (2 km from Guruvayoor): This home of 50 temple elephants offers unusual spectacles of the gentle pachyderm.

Irinjakuda Koodal Manikyam Temple (21 km from Thrissur): situated 10 km away from Irinjalakuda railway station, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Bharatha, the brother of Sri. Rama. It is perhaps the only temple in India with Bharatha as the deity. The colorful eleven day annual festival with a pageant of thirteen caparisoned elephants in held in Apr/May. The festival in this temple marks the end of the Hindu Temple festival season in Kerala.lawns and the cool mountain air make Vagamon a perfect holiday retreat. A curious blend of religious mysticism and European legacies, this hillside village is a haven of tranquility. The chain of three hills - Thangal Hill, Murugan Hill and Kurisumala - is a mark of religious harmony. The dairy farm managed by the Kurisumala monks is worth a visit.

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