Trichur Excursions

The rich cultural and religious heritage makes Trichur an important pilgrim center in the state of Kerala. An equally rich collection of temples, like the famous Guruvayoor Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, Koodalmanikyam Temple dedicated to Bharatha, and the ancient Ariyannoor Temple of the 9th century, deem the state an exotic destination with all aspects of a cherished holiday. Particularly recognized for the pooram festival, Trichur has had a wealthy history of rulers and dynasties, right from the Zamorins to Tipu Sultan to the Dutch to the British. Apart from the spellbinding and grandiose tourist attractions and sightseeing spots in Trichur, the neighboring areas too are glorified with some spectacular and attention-grabbing sites. Excursions like the Chavakkad Beach, Nattika Beach, and Athirapilly Waterfalls make for exciting getaway destinations. Read below to know more about these destinations.

Guruvayoor Temple
The famous Sree Krishan Temple, situated at Guruvayoor, is one of the most sacred and important pilgrim centers of Kerala. The historic temple is shrouded in mystery. According to legends, 'Guru' - the preceptor of the gods and 'Vayu' - the God of winds, created the temple. Situated 30 km from Trichur, it is Kerala's largest shrine with a 33.5 m tall gold-plated flagpole in front of it.

Athirapilly & Vazhachal Waterfalls
Athirapilly and Vazhachal are two of the most scenic and popular waters in Kerala and are located just 5 km apart from each other on the outskirts of Sholayar Forests. The mistiness encircling these waterfalls, with lush green forests and rocky terrains in the background, are sure to draw your breath away. No wonder, they are among the most preferred picnic spots in Kerala and are visited by thousands of tourists every year.

Koodalmanikyam Temple
Situated in a small town of Irinjalakuda in Trichur District of Kerala, Koodalmanikyam is an ancient temple and is perhaps the only in India dedicated to Bharata, the brother of Lord Rama. The temple is one of the four temples in Kerala that form a set called Nalambalam, with each temple dedicated to the four brothers of Ramayana - Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata, and Shatrughna. The eleven-day annual festival, featuring a pageant of thirteen caparisoned elephants (held in April/May), marks the end of the festival season in Kerala.

Ariyannoor Temple
Ariyannoor Temple has a carved entrance gable, which is compared to the sculptures of the American artist, Louise Nevelson. The Sri Krishna Temple at Thirukulashekharapuram as well as the Siva Temple at Thiruvanchikulam is believed to be belonging to the 9th century.

Cheruthuruthy
The charming riverside village of Cheruthuruthy is the seat of Kerala Kalamandalam, renowned across the world for its Kathakali Training Center (established by celebrated poet Vallathol Narayana Menon) that imparts training in music, drama, and other dance forms, including the Mohiniyattam. The most famous art form of Kerala, Kathakali, is known to have been originated in this little village of Cheruthuruthy.

Chavakkad Beach
Chavakkad Beach, situated just 5 km from Guruvayoor, is among the finest beaches that Kerala has to offer. It lies on the coast of Arabian Sea and is best known for a spectacle called Azhimokam in Malayalam, meaning a place where river merges with the sea. The sense-pleasing natural beauty of the beach, ornamented by coconut groves, attracts many visitors all year long. Furthermore, it is a perfect place to capture the beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

Nattika Beach
Nattika Beach, located about 30 km from Trichur town, is an ideal place to spend some time drenched in leisure. Green palms, rhythmic waves, and golden sands make this destination a perfect picnic spot. The nearby resorts provide all the modern facilities for visitors coming here. Fishing, elephant rides, and backwater cruises are bound to make the trip worthwhile.

Kodungalloor
With the first Indian mosque, Cheraman Perumal Juma Masjid, and the first Indian church, Mar Thoma Pontifical Shrine that was built to commemorate the arrival of Saint Thomas (apostle of Jesus Christ), Kodungalloor is naturally supposed to be flocked by tourists all round the year. The Bhagavati Temple that attracts tourists from across the state is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Kerala.

Basilica of Our Lady Dolours (Puthan Pally)
The Basilica of Our Lady Dolours is believed to be the biggest (approx 25000 sq ft) and tallest church in Asia. Situated in the heart of Trichur town, the church is famous for its gothic style of architecture. The interiors are portrayed by fine murals, images of saints, and scenes from the scriptures. The church attracts thousands of visitors every year and counts among the must-see places when in Trichur.