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The vibrant state of Kerala is home to a variety of temples, and Paramekkavu Temple is one of the most popular ones. It is the largest Bhagavathy temple in the state, not just due to its size but also for its extensive correlation with Thrissur Pooram which is conducted every year. Apart from the stunning architecture, the light settings glow up the exterior of the entire temple in the evenings. The temple holds a significant place in the hearts of devotees and travellers alike. As you plan your trip to Kerala, be sure to include the popular Paramekkavu Temple in Thrissur to witness its grandeur, and traditions too.
Quick Details
Paramekkavu Temple Address: Paramekkavu Devaswom Building, Round East, Thrissur, Kerala
Presiding Deity: Devi Bhagavathy
Paramekkavu Temple Timings: 4 AM – 11 AM, and 4 PM – 8 PM
How To Reach: You can board an auto rickshaw, or public bus from Thrissur. It is also close to Thrissur railway station.
Nearest Airport: 60 km from Cochin International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: 2.5 km from Thrissur Railway Station
Best Time To Visit: During Thrissur Pooram festival held annually in May-June
About Paramekkavu Temple Kerala
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons
Apart from Thiruvambady Temple, it is one of the two major Bhagavathy temples participating in the Thrissur Pooram festival. It is regarded as the oldest and the largest Bhagavathy temple in the state as well. Coming to the historical aspects, the temple’s history is connected to Kochi’s royal family. It is deeply linked with the Zamorin rulers and the Kochi Kingdom as well, which is reflected in the architectural and cultural beauty of the temple. While it has been a popular site of Hindu pilgrimage for years, one of the most crucial aspects of this temple is its association with Thrissur Pooram, which is held at the Thekkinkadu Maidan every year.
The temple showcases traditional Kerala architecture with its sloping tiled roofs, wooden carvings, and intricate mural paintings. Also, the Sreekovil, which is the inner sanctum, is home to the idol of Goddess Bhagavathy and there is copper-plated roofing, which adds to the beauty of the temple. Like most of the other temples across Kerala, even Paramekkavu temple has a towering gopuram right at the entrance of the temple, which adds to its exquisiteness.
During evenings, the entire area around the entrance is lit up with lighting, adding to the beauty of the temple. Beyond Thrissur Pooram, which is the main festival, some of the other significant festivals that are celebrated in the temple are Navaratri, Mandala Pooja, and Maha Shivaratri, attracting thousands of devotees to the temple.
Things To Do At Paramekkavu Temple
Beyond learning about the rich history of the Paramekkavu Temple, you can take the time to explore a variety of other activities in the temple.
1. Witness The Daily Pujas
Photo: Sandiz / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
The most important aspect of visiting the Paramekkavu temple is immersing yourself in the daily pujas that are conducted every day by the priests. To reach the inner sanctum where Goddess Bhagavathy resides, you’d have to bear a long queue. The rhythmic chanting of the mantras and the smell of the incense wafting through the temple complex truly add to the experience of exploring the temple and its pristine surroundings.
2. Join The Thrissur Pooram Celebrations
Photo: Manojk / Wikimedia Commons
If your visit to the Paramekkavu temple coincides with the celebrations of Thrissur Pooram, you must definitely stop to witness its grandeur. The grand procession of elephants, the traditional percussion ensembles, and the vibrant fireworks display occur in the nearby Thekkinkadu Maidan annually. Another important experience that you must stop to witness is the one-of-a-kind Ilanjithara Melam, which is conducted under a banyan tree in the temple’s courtyard.
3. Take Part In Navratri And Mandala Pooja
Photo: Arun Oorath / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
Beyond Thrissur Pooram, which is the main festival celebrated at the temple, some of the other festivals that you can witness in the temple are Navratri and Mandala Pooja. During Navratri, the temple is beautifully decorated, and special poojas and cultural programs are conducted. On the other hand, Mandala pooja marks the beginning of the pilgrimage season to Sabarimala, making it an auspicious time to visit the Bhagavathy temple.
4. Visit The Sub-Shrines In The Temple
Photo: AjayTvm / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
While the main attraction of this temple lies in the main shrine of Goddess Bhagavathy, there are a few other sub-shrines dedicated to other Hindu deities that you must visit and explore. You get to see the rituals and poojas that are conducted in these additional shrines and even offer your prayers to the deities there.
5. Explore The Temple’s Architecture
Photo: Arun Oorath / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
Featuring the staple Kerala style architecture with Dravidian influence, the insides of this temple look astounding. Take your time to admire the intricate woodwork and the copper roofing which the interiors are made of. You must explore the different parts of the temple too, including Sreekovil, Namaskara Mandapam and the Gopuram. The murals that are drawn on the temple depict mythological stories and provide insights into Kerala’s cultural heritage as well.
Places To Visit Around Paramekkavu Temple
With the slightly offbeat location of the Paramekkavu temple in Kerala, you can plan the rest of your time exploring the surrounding sightseeing spots.
1. Vadakkunnathan Temple
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons
Another important temple in Thrissur that deserves to be explored is the Vadakkunnathan Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and stands out for its stunning architecture, which is made entirely out of wood and stone. One of the highlights of this particular temple lies in the nine-acre walled patch of green, which adds to the grandeur of the temple. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features a vast temple complex with stunning murals on the walls.
Distance From Paramekkavu Temple: 450 Metres
Timings: 4 AM – 11 AM and 5 PM – 8 PM
2. Thrissur Zoo And Museum
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons
For wildlife enthusiasts, you wouldn’t regret spending your time at the Thrissur Zoo and Museum. With its rich wildlife diversity, it is one of the oldest zoos in the state and is spread across an area of 5 hectares. There are a variety of wildlife in the zoo, including exotic species of wildlife like Lion-Tailed Macaque, Deer, and Sloth Bear, and there is a separate section dedicated to birds as well.
Distance From Paramekkavu Temple: 1.3 Km
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
3. Shakthan Thampuran Palace
Photo: Abhijith Sheheer / Wikimedia Commons
Shakthan Thampuran Palace, also known as Vadakkekara Palace, is a historical site that offers insight into the royal history of Thrissur. If you are interested in learning more about the historical significance of a state, visiting this palace is a must. The palace features Kerala-Dutch-style architecture and was the former administrative site of the rulers of the Kochi dynasty.
Distance From Paramekkavu Temple: 1.4 Km
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM (Closed on Mondays)
4. Bible Tower
Photo: Joby.kj007 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located right beside Dollar’s Church in Thrissur, Bible Tower is another one of the must-visit spots in Thrissur. It is the tallest church tower in Asia, enabling you to witness panoramic views of Thrissur city from the top of the tower. Also, the tower features a variety of unique paintings and sculptures, which add to the architectural significance of the place.
Distance From Paramekkavu Temple: 1.1 Km
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Where To Stay
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Thrissur offers a good selection of hotels to suit different budgets and preferences. If you prefer a more authentic experience, consider staying at a homestay in a nearby village. Beyond that, some of the popular hotels and accommodations around the temple include Lemon Residency, Hotel Palace Tower, Green Plaza Tourist Home, Hotel Mangala Towers, Ashoka Inn, Joy’s Palace Hotel, etc.
Where To Eat
Photo: Pablo Merchán Montes / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Thrissur, the city where Paramekkavu Temple is located, offers a diverse culinary scene. The area around the temple itself is home to several small eateries serving local delicacies. For a more upscale dining experience, venture into the heart of Thrissur where you can find a variety of popular restaurants like Hotel Bharath, Ming Palace Restaurant, Akshaya Hotel, Copamocha, Restaurant Highway Palace, etc.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Shankar S. / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
When planning your visit to Paramekkavu Temple, it’s important to consider a few important factors.
- Both men and women are expected to wear modest clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Additionally, be mindful of the temple’s rituals and customs.
- Observing these will help you respect the religious significance of the place.
- If you are visiting during popular festivals, remain mindful of the surrounding crowds, which can get overwhelming at times.
Featuring history, tradition, and cultural exuberance, a visit to the Paramekkavu Temple is a must on your next visit to Thrissur in Kerala. Ideal for spiritual solace, cultural immersion, or a glimpse into Kerala’s rich heritage, visiting this temple will enable you to embrace the rich traditions of the city. Ensure that you book your trip to Kerala with TripXL and visit the Paramekkavu temple especially during the Thrissur Pooram.
Cover Photo: Arun Oorath / Shutterstock
