Vadakkumnathan Temple, Thrissur

The whole of the Thrissur town is circumambulating around the Vadakkunnathan temple. The most prolific temple festival of South India "Pooram" is showcased in front of Vadakkunnathan temple.

The name Thrissur is derived from 'Thiru-Shiva-Peroor', which literally translates to "The city of the sacred Shiva". Thrissur was also known as Vrishabhadripuram, Vrishachala and Thenkailasam or Dakshina Kailasam(Kailasa of the south) in ancient days.

The temple theatre, known as koothambalam, has no parallel to cite anywhere else in the world. The four magnificent gateways called gopurams and the lofty masonry wall around the temple quadrangle are also imposing pieces of craftsmanship and skill.

The sprawling Thekkinkadu maidan, en circling the Vadakumnathan temple(Thrissur Swaraj Round), is the main venue of the Thrissur Pooram in Medam(April-May). Thrissur Pooram is the most colourful temple festival of Kerala and it attracts large masses of devotees and spectators from all parts of the state and even outside.

Web : http://www.trichur.net/travel/vadakkunnathan.html