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.

Cheruthuruthy (32 km north of Thrissur): Cheruthuruthy is the seat of Kerala Kalamandalam, renowned the world over for its Kathakai training centre. The music and dance academy was founded by the famous poet, Vallathole Narayana Menon. Training in Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Thullal and other art forms of Kerala is imparted here. Cultural programmes are also arranged.

Ariyannoor Temple, Kandanisserry: This temple has a carved entrance gable which has been compared to the wooden sculptures of American artist Louise Nevelson. The Siva temple at Thiruvanchikulam as well as the Sri Krishna temple at Thirukulashekharapuram area believed to be monuments from the 9th century.

The Zoo: 2 kms from Thrissur town, is the zoo, which is a wonderful place for animal enthusiasts. Within the 13.5 acres of compound, a variety of fauna like the lion tailed macaque, Sloth bear, various species of birds, deer etc. The snake park has a reptilian collection of King Cobra, Kraits, Vipers and rat snakes.

Peechi –Vazhani Wildlife: Established in 1958, this 125sq km sanctuary is about 20 km east of Thrissur, in the catchment area of the Peechi and Vazhani dams. The sanctuary is part of the Palapilli – Nelliampathy forests and forms the northern boundary of the Chimmini Sanctuary. Having an abundance of enchanting flora and fauna and a lake where you can go boating, this place is a treat for the nature lover. There are more than 50 different kinds of orchids, innumerable rare medicinal plants, teak, rosewood, and so on. The wildlife population includes over 25 types of mammals including carnivores like the leopard, the tiger and the fox and herbivores like the elk, deer, barking deer, spotted deer, the bison and the elephant. More than 60 types of birds and 10 types of snakes are also found.
 

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