Vadakumnathan temple One of the Oldest Mahadeva temples is situated in the Centre of the city around which the city is built, is more than a 1000 years old.Vadakkumnath temple, which is also known as the Rishabari which means the Kailash of the south, is a classic instance of the keralian style of the architecture. It is beautified with wall paintings or murals and many classic pieces of art. World famous “pooram” festival celebrated annually in April-may in this temple. Except pooram non hindu's are not permitted to enter inside the temple premises.



The city holds annual eight day festival called Thrissur Pooram during which brilliantly caparisoned elephants lead processions. Followers representing the Thiruvambadi temple on one hand and the Paramekkavu temple on the other hand celebrate the Pooram. Elaborate processions from both these temples start off amidst much fanfare through the streets of Thrissur. The elephants belonging to these temples lead the processions. Each elephant participating in this festival is richly caparisoned, adorned with ornaments and topped with an equally well-decorated parasol. There are 15 elephants from each group. Each side tries to outdo the other in the decoration of elephants, as the side putting up a better display than its rival is adjudged as the winner for that particular year.Though the breathtaking spectacle of the procession is over by dusk, the night sky over Thrissur is lit up with an equally breathtaking display of fireworks.