Nelliyampathy Hills

From the town of Nenmara in Palakkad district, the cloud-caressed peaks of the majestic Nelliyampathy Hill ranges are a sight to behold. The height of the hills ranges from approximately 467 m to 1572 m and it has an extremely calming effect on all who view it. To reach Nelliyampathy, one has to take the road starting from Nenmara that proceeds to the Pothundy Dam. There are about 10 hairpin bends that have to be negotiated on the way to Nelliyampathy.

The Pothundy Dam is a beautiful locale with facilities for boating and is a nice option as a picnic place. As the Ghat road winds its way up to Nelliyampathy, at certain places there are viewpoints from where the vast stretches of Palakkad district are visible with its extensive paddy fields forming a verdant carpet. It also offers a splendid view of the Palakkad Gap, which is a geographical phenomenon in the Western Ghats formation in this region, bringing into view, parts of the adjoining State of Tamil Nadu.

On the way up, those interested in bio farming can take a close look at the privately managed farms and also vast expanses of tea estates managed by different plantation companies. The hills of Nelliyampathy are also well known for its orange cultivation.

Privately owned hotels and resorts are located at various points, as one goes up the hills of Nelliyampathy. The bio-farms located here are a major landmark as one proceeds up before reaching the topmost point at Palagapandi Estate. The estate has a quaint bungalow, built during the British rule in India, and has now been converted into a private owned resort. At Kaikatty, a community hall is available, which is usually used as a base by those interested in trekking.

Not far away from Palagapandy is Seetharkundu where one can have a fantastic view of the valley and a 100 m high waterfall providing an added attraction. From Palagapandy, one can trek or go by jeep to reach Mampara; another breathtaking vantage point at Nelliyampathy. The area in and around Palagapandy Estate has tea, cardamom and coffee plantations with adjoining hills allowing one to catch a glimpse of the wildlife in the form of Indian Gaur, elephants, leopards, Giant Squirrel etc. and is also a paradise for birdwatchers. 

Malampuzha Garden

Malampuzha gardens, the only rock-cut gardens in South India made by Nek Chand, winner of the Padmashree award, India's fourth highest civilian award is situated in Palakkad district of Kerala. The entire garden is made from broken pieces of bangles, tiles, used plastic cans, tins and other waste materials. His rock garden in Chandigarh attracts people from all over the world. Also situated in the gardens is the massive Malampuzha Yakshi (female vampire) built in 1969 by Kanayi Kunhiraman, famous sculptor from Kerala. It is a spectacular relic of art that we are lucky to still have with us. The flowering beds, fountains and rose gardens along with an aerial ropeway make it a place that instantly soothes your soul.

In the lower hills of the Western Ghats lies the beautiful Malampuzha township whose lush greenery and plethora of picnic spots make it a must visit spot in these areas. It has really good trekking trails that are available to all with a penchant for the same. Malampuzha gardens and the irrigation dam tend to be the areas that attract the highest number of visitors. Apart from being perfect picnic spots, there is a host of interesting trivia surrounding the place that adds to its appeal.

Visiting Hours: 09:00 hrs to 20:00 hrs

Separate entrance fee for Ropeway, Snake Park (Monday Holiday)  

Contact Details:

Malampuzha Garden, Ph: +91 491 2815295

Website: www.malampuzhagarden.org

Malampuzha Dam

Malampuzha Dam is the largest reservoir in Kerala, located near Palakkad in south India with the scenic hills of the Western Ghats in the background. It is a combination of a masonry dam with a length of 1,849 metres and an earthen dam with a length of 220 metres.[2] The dam is 355 feet high and crosses the Malampuzha River, a tributary of Bharathappuzha, Kerala's second longest river. There is a network of two canal systems that serve the dam's reservoir of 42,090 hectares.

The dam project was begun in 1949 and completed in 1955. It was only after India's independence on 27 March 1949, that the then Public Works Minister, Sri. M. Bhaktavatsalam laid the foundation stone for the project. Palakkad was a part of the Madras Presidency during those times. The dam was constructed in record time, and on October 9, 1955, the then Chief Minister of Madras, Sri. K Kamaraj, inaugurated the dam.The total catchments area is 145 square kilometres, while the reservoir has a capacity of 8000 square meters of water. The canal systems serve to irrigate farm land while the reservoir provides drinking water to Palakkad and surrounding villages.

Kalpathy Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kalpathy Temple is a famous temple situated just 3 km away from Palakkad. The temple is mainly renowned for its 7-day Rath Yatra held in the month of November which draws devotees from across the country.

Tipu Sultan Fort

The Palakkad Fort is said to have existed from very ancient times, but believed to be constructed in present form in 1766 A.D, but little is known of its early history. The local ruler, Paliyath Achchan, was originally a tributary of the Zamorin, but had become independent before the beginning of the eighteenth century.[1] In 1757 he sent a deputation to Hyder Ali seeking help against an invasion threatened by the Zamorin. Hyder Ali seized upon the opportunity to gain possession of a strategically important location such as Palghat and from that time until 1790 the fort was continually in the hands of the Mysore Sultans or the British. It was first taken by the latter in 1768 when Colonel Wood captured it during his raid on Hyder Ali's fortresses, but it was retaken by Haider a few months later. It was recaptured by Colonel Fullarton in 1783, after a siege that lasted eleven days but was abandoned the following year. It later fell into the hands of the Zamorin’s troops. In 1790 it was finally captured by the British under Colonel Stuart. It was renovated and was used as a base for operations that ended with the storming of Srirangapatnam. The fort continued to be garrisoned until the middle of 19th century. In the early 1900s it was converted into a taluk office.

The fort is also known as Tipu's Fort (after Tipu Sultan, the son of Hyder Ali).

Seethargundu Viewpoint

Seethargundu is located in palakkad district few kilometers away from the nelliyampathy hills. It's one of the beautiful natural attraction in kerala. We can reach there by car after paying the entry fee at a check post few kilometers before the destination. Parking space, refreshment and restrooms are available at the entry. It's one of the rushy places in nelliyampathy especially on weekends and holidays. It's a very deep cliff and the tree which is located in the side of the cliff is an attraction. Beware of the mischievous monkeys which will grab all the food packets you are holding on reaching there. If lucky you can see some wild animals which come near to the cliff. Lots of awesome photo locations are available here and it's a must watch place for all the nature lovers here.

Dhoni Waterfalls

Dhoni Hills in Palakkad is slowly turning into a famous picnic spot. The trek from the base area is a three hour trip to the reserve forest area where the view is extremely beautiful. One can encounter some rare species of flora and fauna on the trek here. The trails are slowly gaining traction with travellers and trekking enthusiasts.

Yakshi Statue

The Yakshi statue is one of the major things to see at the Malampuzha Gardens. This life size statue around 10 to 12 feet high is a master piece from the artist Kanayi. I understood from the local person that there is a dispute going on about placing the statue in the garden as permission of the artist had not been sought. That apart this is a master piece chiseled in stone. Yaksha refers to a celestial being and she seems to be sitting naked in a yogic postures. The face conveys a lot of expressions. The only sad part is that such a great piece of work should be maintained much more than that is being done today. Also a information board will be very useful for visitors.

Parambikkulam Wildlife Sanctuary

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is a well protected ecological portion in the Nelliampathy - Anamalai landscape of the Southern Western Ghats in India. It is located in the Palakkad District of Kerala. It is one of the biodiversity hot spot in the world supports diverse habitat types and endemism. Considering its biological richness, abundance of wildlife and landcape beauty makes Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is one of the most attractive places in the entire stretch of Western Ghats. It was declared as Tiger Reserve during 2009 with total area of 643.66 SqKm, which includes core area of 390.89 and 252.77 Sq Km Buffer area.

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is the most protected ecological piece of Anamalai sub unit of Western Ghats, surrounded on all sides by protected areas and sanctuaries of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the sanctuary is endowed with a peninsular flora and fauna which are excellently conserved due to total protection and minimal human interferences. The sanctuary being a major ecological continuum from Peechhi to Eravikulam through Anamalai aids the large viable populations of wildlife. It is the home ground for different races of indigenous people who are as well an integral part of the prevailing harmonious ecosystem. The thick, opulent habitat of the sanctuary with ample water supplys make it an abode for wildlife and there by for tourist who can have treasured memories of animal sightings and that of being in the lap of mother nature.

Kava

Kava is the gateway for the rain clouds to Malampuzha. The tourists come here to see the black clouds spread over the peaks. Through the waiting moments for the rain to come in the Kava.

In ancient time, a huge dragon came to destroy the Earth hiding its full strength in his tail. And a prince, strong as Hercules and courageous as Odysseus, attacked the dragon and slashed its tail in which it hide a huge sword. Observing one of the peaks of the western Ghats, it seems like the piece of the tail had fallen in the Kava of Malampuzha. 

Attapadi Reserve Forest

Attappadi is an extensive mountain valley at the headwaters of the Bhavani River nestled below the Nilgiri Hills of the Western Ghats. It is bordered to the east by Coimbatore district in Tamil Nadu, on the north by the Nilgiris, south by the Palghat taluk and on the west by Karimba-I and II, Pottassery-I and II, and Mannarghat revenue villages of Mannarghat taluk of the Palghat District and Ernad taluk of the Malappuram district.

The 249 km² Attappadi Reserve Forest is an informal buffer zone bordering the Silent Valley National Park to the West.[3] 81 km² of this forest was separated to become most of the new 94 km² Bhavani Forest Range which is part of the 147.22 km² Silent Valley Buffer Zone formally approved by the Kerala Cabinet on 6 June 2007. The Cabinet also sanctioned 35 staff to protect the area and two new forest stations in Bhavani range at Anavai and Thudukki. The zone is aimed at checking the illicit cultivation of ganja, poaching and illicit brewing in areas adjacent to Silent Valley and help long-term sustainability of the protected area.

The elevation of Attappati valley ranges from 750 meters (2,460 ft) to the Malleswaran peak at 11°6′32″N 76°33′8″E which rises to 1,664 meters (5,459 ft) from the center of the valley. The Bhavani River flows from the Northwest around the mountain in a tight bend past Attappadi village and continues to the Southeast.

Kannimara Teak

Fondly known as Kannimara Teak, this tree is the biggest living tree at a height of 47.5 m. Sited at the Parambikulam Wildlife sanctuary in Palghat District, it lies about 80 km from Nilambur.

Palakkad

Palakkad, or Palghat, is a city in Kerala, a state in southwestern India. The 18th-century Palakkad Fort has sturdy battlements, a moat and a Hanuman temple on its grounds. North, on the Kalpathy River, the 15th-century Viswanatha Swamy Temple is the main venue of the famous Ratholsavam chariot festival. Northeast, near Malampuzha Dam, the town of Malampuzha has a rock garden created from recycled materials.

Pandalam

At a distance of 16 Kms from Pathanamthitta & 40 Kms from Sabarimala, Pandalam is a holy town as it is the birth place of Lord Ayappa in human form. Pandalam is famous for Sri Ayyappa Temple, Pandalam Palace & Pattupurukavu Temple.

Sri Ayyappa Temple:

Also known as Valiyakoikal Temple, it was built in the similar lines of Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala. Pilgrims usually stop here to worship before proceeding to Sabarimala. Makaravilaku is the major festival celebrated at this temple in mid January. Three days prior to the Makaravilaku festival, the sacred ornaments of Sree Ayyappa are taken in a procession from Pandalam to Sabarimala.

Pandalam Palace:

This is the place where Lord Ayyappa has grown up during his childhood. It is located adjacent to Ayyappa temple.

Pattupurukavu Devi Temple:

At a distance of about half Km from Ayyappa Temple, it is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. Annual festival is celebrated on Aswathy day in month of Meenam (Mar/Apr), along with Navaratri.

Palaruvi Waterfalls

At a distance of 81 km from Kollam, 29 kms from Tenkasi & 86 km from Trivandrum, Palaruvi Waterfalls are wonderful waterfalls located on Kollam - Tenkasi road, at a distance of 11 Kms from Thenmala Dam on Kerala -Tamil Nadu border.

The word Palaruvi means stream of milk in Malayalam. Falling from a height of 300 feet, it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala. It is a favourite picnic spot for visitors from all over south India. The water falls into a small pool and this place is ideal for swimming. There are seperate locations for kids and ladies to bath here. 

The falls are close to the main road needs little walk from the road. Best time to visit the place is Jun-Jan.

Thangasseri Beach

At a distance of 4 Kms from Kollam Railway Station, Thangasseri Beach is a beautiful & historical beach on Ariabian Sea. This place was a Portuguese settlement in 15th/16th century and later changed hands between Dutch & British. 

Thangasseri beach is a wonderful place to spend an evening and watch the lovely sunset. The beach is adjacent to Kollam Fort. At north-east corner of the beach, the ruins of Thangasseri Fort built in the 18th century are also interesting to visit. Lighthouse situated close to the beach is worth visiting. Built in 1902, the majestic Lighthouse is 144 feet tall. Lighthouse is open to public between 3:30 PM & 5:30 PM. 

Feb to Nov is the best time to visit Thangasseri Beach.

Thirumullavaram Beach

At a distance of 5.5 Kms from Kollam Railway Station, Thirumullavaram Beach is a beautiful beach with full of coconut palms. 

This beach is excellent for bathing and swimming. Mahavishnu Temple near the beach is a worth visiting place.

Kappil Beach

At a distance of 18 Kms from Kollam and 6 Kms from Varkala, Kappil Beach is a famous weekend gateway from Tivandrum.

Sprawls across 25 acres of land, the thin line of sand beach separates Edava-Nadayara Lake from the Arabian Sea. Swimming, water sports and Sun-bathing are famous activities at this spot. Boating is available in the backwaters of the lake at Priyadarshini Boat Club and Lake Sagar Boat Club near Beach. Dolphins are an added attraction on the Kappil Beach.

Kappil Beach is connected by bus service from Kollam, Varkala & Trivandrum.

Papanasan Beach

At a distance of about 26 km from Kollam & 48 km from Trivandrum, Papanasam Beach is located in Varkala, which is a coastal town on the banks of Arabian Sea. Varkala is the second best beach resort in Kerala after Kovalam. It is a good weekend getaway destination from Trivandrum city.

Papanasan Beach is a quite and clean beach. It is believed that a dip in the water destroys all kind of sin. Hence, people prefer this shore for their offering of VAVUBALI in honour of ancestors and relatives whose souls are in rest. After the offering of VAVUBALI, people visit Janardhana Swamy Temple and perform Thilakahoma pooja performed for the sublimation of the departed souls.

This beach is less commercialized and less crowded. This long sandy beach is getting popularized in recent days. It is very much safe to swim & play in the waters of the beach here. Dolphins are also spotted at this place.

Ashtamudi Lake

At a distance of 2 Kms from Kollam Railway Station, Ashtamudi Lake is a beautiful lake which is also gateway to the backwater cruises of Kollam. This lake is the second largest lake in Kerala, after Vembanad Lake and also among the best places to experience Kerala Backwaters Tourism.

Ashtamudi Lake is famous for its panoramic views. Thick coconut groves and palm trees can be seen all along the banks of the lake. Boating is offered in the lake by The Kollam Boat Club. Backwater cruises are also available in the lake, between Kollam and Alappuzha.

The banks of the lake are also famous for the Chinese fishing nets. There are many resorts along the lake that offer variety of water sports.

Kollam

At a distance of 135 km from Kochi, 69 km from Trivandrum, 83 km from Alleppey, 94 km from Kottayam and 156 km from Kanyakumari, Kollam (also known as Quilon) is an old sea port city in Kerala and headquarters of the Kollam District. The town of Kollam lies between the Ashtamudi Lake and Lakshadweep Sea. Kollam is one of the Kerala backwaters destinations.

Kollam lies on the shores of Ashtamudi Lake. It is the southern gateway to Backwaters of Kerala and is a prominent tourist destination. Thirty percent of this district is covered by Ashtamudi Lake. The eight hour boat trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is the best way to explore the Kerala backwaters. It is also very famous for cashew processing and coir manufacturing.

Kollam was a flourishing port during the Chera dynasty and later became the capital of the independent Venad or Kingdom of Quilon. Kollam had a strong commercial reputation since the days of the Phoenicians and Romans. Desinganadu Rajas exchanged embassies with Chinese rulers while there was a flourishing Chinese settlement at Kollam. It was considered as one of the five main ports dealing with Chinese trade in 14th century. In 1502, the first trading centre was established in Kollam by the Portuguese. The Portuguese were followed by the Dutch and then the British in 1795.

Kollam attracts travelers all-round the year with its wide variety of sightseeing options. Kollam is also famous for lovely beaches & lakes like Kollam Beach, Thirumullavaram Beach, Thangasseri Beach, Munroe Island, Ashtamudi Lake, Sasthamkotta Lake, Neendakara Port and Alumkadavu Boat Building Yard. Rameshwara Temple, Achencoil and Mayyanad, Amritapuri Ashram, Aryankavu, Chavara, Kottarakkara, Oachira and Karunagappally are the prominent cultural as well as religious centers of the region. There are numerous churches and mosques in Kollam including Pullichira Church built in 1700 AD and Chinnakkada Palli.

Kallada Boat race is one among the famous festival events of Kollam. This boat race attracts a large number of tourists and is usually held on the 19th of January along with the great elephant march simultaneously.

Kollam is well connected by bus, train and air. Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport (66 km from Kollam). Kollam Railway Station is well connected to the major cities like Chennai, Hubli, Hyderabad, Trivandrum, Mumbai, Mangalore, Nagarcoil, Madurai, New Delhi, Kolkata, Kanyakumari and Kochi. KSRTC bus service connects Kollam to all cities in Kerala. Private buses are also available to Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Pondicherry and Thrissur.

Best time to visit Kollam is from October to March, while the peak seasons are from November to January. It usually takes 1-2 full days to explore this area.

Kollam Beach

At a distance of 2 Kms from Kollam Railway Station, Kollam Beach, also known as Kochupilamodu Beach is located in Kochupilamodu. It is also known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach.

The Mahatma Gandhi Park situated at the southern end of the beach is an added attraction. The beach offers beautiful views of sunset and it is ideal for swimming.

Vadakkunathan Temple

At a distance of 1 Km from Thrissur Railway Station, Vadakkumnathan Temple (also known as Thenkailasam or Vrishabhachalam) is one of the largest and ancient Lord Shiva temples in Kerala. This temple is the venue for world famous Thrissur Pooram festival celebrated annually in April / May.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the oldest temples in South India. It is believed that this temple was founded by Parasurama. It is a classic example of the Kerala style of architecture with beautiful murals depicting the scenes from Mahabharata and wonderful wood carvings. The idol of Shiva is covered by ghee offered as daily abhishekam. The temple is surrounded by a massive stone wall enclosing the wonderful temple complex. There are four gopurams each facing north, south, east and west. Shankaranarayana and Rama are also worshipped along with the main deity,

Only Hindus are allowed into this temple (all are allowed during Pooram festival). 

Timings: 4 -10.30 AM & 5 - 8.30 PM

Guruvayoor

At a distance of 27 Kms from Thrissur & 81 km from Kochi, Guruvayoor is well known for the most famous Sri Krishna Temple in South India. This is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in Kerala & an ideal getaway from kochi.

Lord Sri Krishna can be seen in standing posture with four hands carrying Sankhu, Sudarshana Chakram, Lotus and Mace. A 33 meter tall gold-plated Dwajastambham is a special attraction. There is a 7 meter high 'Deepastambham' with thirteen circular containers, provides a wonderful site when lit. 

The walls of the sanctum sanctorum are adorned with beautiful mural paintings and carvings. The temple is built in a typical Kerala temple architecture. Vishwakarma, the divine architect is said to have built the first temple here. On Malayalam New Year day, the first rays of Sun fall directly at the feet of Lord Krishna. The temple has a collection of 65 elephants, preserved at Anakotta, 3 Kms from the temple. 

Only Hindus are allowed into temple. Guruvayoor Ekadasi is the main festival celebrated in Mar / Apr.

Timings: 3 AM - 12:30 PM & 4.30 PM - 10 PM.

Athirappally Waterfalls

At a distance of 32 km from Chalakudy, 73 km from Kochi, 59 km from Thrissur, 100 km from Munnar, 122 km from Kottayam, 170 km from Kozhikode, 174 km from Coimbatore & 269 km from Trivandrum, Athirapally Waterfalls are one of the best waterfalls in India and one of the most famous tourist places in kerala & one of the popular weekend getaways from Kochi, Coimbatore & Munnar. These are magnificent waterfalls on Chalakudy River located at the entrance to Sholayar hill range in Thrissur district.

This waterfall drops from a height of 80 feet through several parallel streams offering a great scenic beauty. In monsoon season, the water gets strength and all the streams join together and appear like Niagara Falls. This is the biggest waterfalls in Kerala and well known for its scenic beauty.

One can reach top of Athirapally falls with about 15 minutes walk from the falls entrance. It offers spectacular views of the Sholayar hills and a unique view of the waterfalls from this spot. About 10-15 minutes trek down from top of the falls will take you to bottom of the falls where the greatest beauty of the waterfalls can be experienced. Swimming is possible in the stream at bottom of the Athirapally falls.

Down from the waterfall, the stream continues as Chalakudy River which ultimately drains into Arabian Sea. This river is a bio diversity hotspot with 85 species of fresh water fish living in it. The Athirapally Forest is also the natural habitat of different species like the great hornbill, Malabar pied hornbill, Malabar grey hornbill, Indian grey hornbill, Asiatic elephant, tiger, leopard, bison, sambar and lion-tailed macaque.

The Vazhachal Waterfalls, Charpa Falls, Anakkayam, Sholayar Dam, Valparai and Malayattur Wildlife Sanctuary are the nearby places to visit in Athirapally. It also offers adventure activities like river rafting, trekking, etc.

Chalakudy (32 km) is the nearest junction to Athirapally and it is connected by bus with Thrissur (55 km), Kochi (73 km) and Palakkad (110 km). One can take public/private vehicle from Chalakudy to reach Athirapally. Cochin Airport is the nearest airport to Athirapally which is 40 km away. Kochi and Thrissur are two major railways junctions nearby. The nearest railway station is Chalakudy Railway Station at 32 km from Athirapally.

Munnar is about 100 km from Athirapally. If you are travelling from Kochi to Munnar, you can visit Athirapally if you can dedicate 3 extra hours (Kochi - Munnar is 120 km and Kochi- Athirapally-Munnar is 170 km).

Athirapally falls never dries out and can be visited anytime during the year. Though the waterfall appears in its full glory during monsoons, heavy rains can cause great inconvenience. So, the best time to visit is from September to January. It usually takes 2-3 hours to explore Athirappally falls.

Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple

At a distance of 2 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station, Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple is one of the largest Krishna Temples in Kerala. The architecture of the temple is very impressive. Thiruvambadi is one of the two groups participating in Thrissur Pooram (other participant being Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple).

Lord Krishna is worshipped along with Devi Vishnumaya at this temple. Though the original temple was constructed in 16th century, the current structure was ordered by Raja Rama Varma (also known as Sakthan Thampuran), the rules of Kochi in 18th century.

The temple conducts a colorful ceremonious procession called Madathilvaravu to the Vadakkumnathan temple during Thrissur Pooram celebrated in April / May. The procession is characterized by caparisoned elephants, drum performers and Panchavadyam.

Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple

At a distance of 2 Km from Thrissur Railway Station, Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple is one of the largest Bagavathi temples in Kerala. Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple is one of the two groups participating in Thrissur Pooram (other participant being Thiruvambadi Temple).

With wonderful temple structure, this temple is considered to be more than 1000 years old. Dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy (an incarnation of Goddess Durga), this temple is very close to Vadakkumnathan Temple.

This temple is very popular for its traditional panchavadyam 'Palachottil Melom'.

Dolours Basilica

At a distance of 1 Km from Thrissur Railway Station, Dolours Basilica (or Basilica of our Lady of Dolours) is believed to be the biggest and tallest Church in Asia.

Built in 1875, this Roman Catholic Church is also called Puthen Palli (New Church). This church was built with the support of Raja Rama Varma, Maharaja of Kochi. However, most of the current structure is the result of major renovation held in the 19th century. With built up area of 25,000 Sq. Ft, this Church has three towers, two at the front side and one at the rear (called as Bible Tower). The towers at the front are 146 feet tall and the rear tower is 260 feet in height. 

This church is dedicated to Mother Mary. Eight music bells imported from Germany are special attractions of this church. The chapel has 15 altars. The church is famous for its Gothic style of architecture.

The church celebrates two festivals. Basilica Feast - last Sunday of November & Feast of Our Lady of Dolours - 15th September.

Thrissur Zoo

At a distance of 3 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station, Zoo is a major attraction in the city of Thrissur.

The zoo provides shelter for many endangered species like the Asiatic Lion, Tiger and the extremely rare lion-tailed macaque, etc. It has an impressive reptile house with King Kobra, Indian python, krait, etc. The reptile house is on of the best in South India. 

The Zoo complex also has an impressive museum complex, which has a good collection of wood carvings, metal sculptures, Kathakali figures and ancient jewellery. There are wonderful figures and good paintings in the museum. It also has a great collection of traditional Kerala lamps.

Zoo Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Monday

Museum Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Monday

Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary

At a distance of 23 Kms from Thrissur, Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Peechi village. The sanctuary is spread between Peechi Dam and Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary.

Spread across 125 Sq. Kms, the sanctuary was established in 1958. There are more than 50 species of orchids and medicinal plants in this sanctuary. There are 60 types of birds, 25 types of mammals and 10 types of snakes in the sanctuary. The sanctuary provides shelter for Leopards, Tigers, Sambhar Deer, Elks, Barking Deer, Spotted Deer, Wild Dogs, Fox, Langurs, etc. 

Peechi village is the entry point to the sanctuary. Forest department arranges trekking into the sanctuary. The trekking is recommended only for the experienced trekkers. October to March is the best time to visit. Bookings can be made at Wildlife Warden at Peechi (Ph: 0487-2699017). Forest department does not arrange Jeep Safaris at this sanctuary.

Thrissur Pooram

At a distance of 1 Km from Thrissur Railway Station, Thrissur Pooram is celebrated on the Pooram day in the month of Medom (April/May) in the premises of the Vadakkunnathan Temple (Thekkinkadu maidan). It is the most colorful temple festival in entire Kerala.

The festival was initiated in 18th century by Raja Rama Varma (also known as Sakthan Thampuran), the rules of Kochi. The best elephants of the state from various temples in Kerala are sent to Thrissur to participate in the festival. The festival is a magnificent spectacle with night long fireworks, colorful 'Kudamattom' and a grand elephant procession. 

On the early hours of final day of festival, a procession of 15 beautifully decorated elephants marching from Thiruvambadi Temple carries the idol of Lord Krishna. Another group of 15 magnificent elephants start from Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple carrying the idol of the goddess. The celebration will be continued with fireworks and several competitions throughout the night.

Archaeological Museum

At a distance of 2.5 Km from Thrissur Railway Station, Archaeological Museum is housed in Sakthan Thampuran Palace built by Raja Rama Varma (Sakthan Thampuran).

The palace has been constructed in a unique combination of Dutch and traditional Kerala style of architecture. The palace is marked by high roofs, thick walls, large rooms and Italian marble flooring. The Museum is famous for its collection of murals and relics from different parts of Kerala. It also houses the Royal exhibits of Kochi Kingdom. The museum has big life-size statues of famous and eminent personalities. There are several models of ancient temples, monuments, etc. An interesting collection is a set of manuscripts written on dry palm leaves. There is also a heritage garden within the museum complex. Veerakallu or herostones, the stone engravings and sculptures of figures and weapons recovered from the forests of Wayanad and Thrissur and worth watching.

Timings: 10 AM - 5 PM. Closed on Monday & national holidays

Kerala Kalamandalam

At a distance of 29 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station, Kerala Kalamandalam is located in Cheruthuruthy on the banks of Bharathapuzha River, on SH22 towards Shoranur.

Founded in 1930 by Mahakavi Vallathol Narayana Menon and Manakkulam Mukunda Raja, it is one of the most revered places for the traditional art forms of Kerala. This temple of arts has preserved and propagated Kathakali, the classical dance of Kerala. Many of the internationally renowned artistes of Kerala and India have been trained here. The Koothambalam, the traditional dance theatre at Kalamandalam is the only one in the State which is built outside a temple complex. Constructed according to vikrushtra madhya, one of the three natya grihas specified in sage Bharatha's Natyasasthra, the theatre is 14.62 meter long and 7.31 meter wide. This unique institute has been involved in giving training in Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Kootiyattam, Panchavadyam and Thullal.

Thiruvanikkavu Temple

At a distance of 18 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station, Thiruvanikkavu Temple is located near Vadakkancherry. This temple is dedicated for goddess Bhagavathy (an incarnation of Goddess Durga).

This temple is famous for Machattu Mamangm (or machattuvela) festival celebrated for 5 days in the month of Kumbham - Feb/Mar. On the final day, richly decorated horse themes brought as offerings by devotees and beautifully decorated elephants accompanied by traditional musicians in the temple courtyard offer great joy to the devotees.

Harikanyaka Temple

At a distance of 21 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station & 5 Kms from Guruvayoor Temple, Harikanyaka Temple is located in Ariyannur, between Thrissur and Guruvayoor.

Dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy (an incarnation of Goddess Durga), this temple was built in early 14th century. This temple is one of the ancient Maha Kshethrams. The carved entrance of the temple is a special attraction. People believe that Maha Vishnu has taken the avatharam of Kanyaka here, hence the name 'Hari Kanyaka'. In the past, this temple had a glorious history and it was much wealthier than Guruvayur Temple. This temple was the head of 32 surrounding Deshams. 

Special festival is celebrated for 15 days in the month Meenum (December). One of ancient ritual called Chandrolsavam is celebrated here. 

Timings: 5.30 AM to 9.30 AM & 5.30 Pm to 7.30 PM.

Punnathur Kotta

At a distance of 28 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station & 3 Kms from Guruvayoor Temple, Punnathur Kotta was once the home of Punnathoor Zamorin (ruler), now an Elephant Sanctuary which is home for about 60 Elephants. The elephants housed at this sanctuary are brought for ritual offerings at Guruvayoor Temple.

The elephants offered to the Guruvayoor deity by rich devotees are given shelter at the sanctuary. Elephants are also trained for performing various rituals. These elephants are groomed for various ritualistic performances in festivals like Thrissur Pooram. You can also observe how sick elephants are given treatment with traditional medications. 

Tips: Can be visited along with Guruvayoor.

Chavakkad Beach

At a distance of 32 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station & 4 Kms from Guruvayoor, Chavakkad Beach is a beautiful beach lying on the coast of Arabian Sea.

The beach is full of natural beauty. This beach does not have much commercial activity and less crowded. One can have complete privacy and enjoy the beauty of the beach. Boating is available on country fishing boats.

Chavakkad Beach can be reached by private vehicles from Guruvayoor.

Kodungallur

Kodungallur

At a distance of 38 km from Kochi & 36 Kms from Thrissur, Kodungallur, also known as Cranganore is a historical town located in Thrissur district on NH17 between Kochi and Kozhikode. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Kochi and also an ideal getaway from Kochi for a short trip.

Kodungallur was the capital of Cheraman Perumal, the last Chera Ruler in the 7th century AD. Kodungallur is home for several important historical monuments:

Bhagawati Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kerala with history of above 2000 years and was mentioned in the epics Ramayana and Mahabharatha

Thomas the Apostle of Jesus is believed to have landed in Kodungallur with his followers in the year 52 AD. This place has become the earliest Syrian Christian centre of Malabar. Monuments built in the memory of Thomas still exist here, including St. Thomas Church.

Cheraman Juma Masjid is the first mosque built in India in mid 6th century AD, by Malik Ibn Dinar, the follower of Prophet Muhammad

A fort built by the Portuguese in 1523, which was later captured by Tipu Sultan of Mysore