Discovering fascinating places is made easy in Kerala’s cultural centre, Thrissur. If you’re planning a trip, there are several amazing places to visit near Thrissur which will make you feel awestruck in the laps of nature. Not far away are the breathtaking Athirappilly Falls and the peaceful Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary. Discover the lovely hill station of Nelliyampathy or the calm backwaters of Kumarakom, two natural world treasures. With so many attractions, Thrissur is a great place to start exploring Kerala’s rich historical legacy and stunning scenery.
10 Places To Visit Near Thrissur
Here are the 10 fantastic places to visit near Thrissur that perfectly capture the unique charm, cultural tradition, and natural beauty of Kerala.
1. Athirapally Falls
Photo: Jayakrishnan.B / Wikimedia Commons
One of the best places to visit near Thrissur is Athirapally Falls. Foamy streams coming from the Anamudi mountains in the Western Ghats create this magnificent waterfall. Also known as Bahubali Waterfall, this natural marvel is the largest waterfall in the state of Kerala, with a height of 80 feet and spans 330 feet. From this point, the Athirapally Falls provide an amazing sight of glittering water, vivid woods, and bright blue sky as they flow into the Arabian Sea via the Vazhachal Forest.
Location: 57.8 km from Thrissur bus stand
Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Cost / Person: ₹15
Suggested Read: Beaches In Thrissur District
2. Our Lady Of Dolours Basilica
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Known as the ‘Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours’, the Dolours Basilica is a unique church situated in Thrissur. This church is easily identifiable from its white exterior. Tucked down in a lush valley, it is well-known for telling many stories of love and devotion. With double-story aisles, Dolours Basilica, at over 25,000 square feet, is the tallest church in the country and the third-tallest in Asia. Two-story aisles and other complex architectural elements that combine many styles are hallmarks of the basilica, including the magnificent stained glass windows, and sacred artworks.
Location: 1.4 km from Thrissur bus stand
Timings: 6:00 AM onwards
Cost / Person: Free entry
3. Shakthan Thampuran Palace
Photo: KannanVM / Wikimedia Commons
The Shakthan Thampuran Palace, located in Thrissur, serves as the official palace of the Cochin monarch and is renowned as a popular tourist destination due to its significant historical significance. It was built in 1795 during the reign of Rama Varma Shakthan Thampuran, the King of Cochin. The monarch exhibited great generosity in his governance, and his reign was often called the ‘Golden Era of Kochi.’ The exquisite palace, showcasing a fusion of Kerala and Dutch architectural styles, is a sight that can’t be overlooked on a visit to Thrissur.
Location: 2.5 km from Thrissur bus stand
Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Cost / Person: ₹20 for adults, ₹5 for kids, ₹50 for cameras
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Thrissur For Couples
4. Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple
Photo: Manojk / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple is an important religious monument of historical and cultural significance located near Thrissur. With a history spanning over 1000 years, this temple is the largest in Kerala, specifically devoted to worshipping Goddess Vaishnavi. The temple showcases intricate wooden carvings and mural paintings that epitomise the architectural style of Kerala. Visitors are welcome to explore the temple and experience the peace of this significant place of prayer, as well as witness traditional rituals.
Location: 1.6 km from Thrissur bus stand
Timings: 4:30 AM – 11:30 AM & 4 PM – 9 PM
Cost / Person: Free
5. Vilangan Kunnu
Photo: Binoyjsdk / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
From the highest point, visitors may enjoy a splendid panoramic view of Thrissur City and the Thrissur Kole Wetlands, which makes this location a very popular destination for picnics in the area. The experience from the 5-acre hilltop is made even more extraordinary by the presence of an amusement park. This serves as one of the best tourist attractions near Thrissur, with several rides that you can enjoy while taking in the breathtaking view below.
Location: 9.2 km from Thrissur bus stand
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹10 for adults, and ₹5 for kids
Suggested Read: State Museum And Zoo Thrissur
6. Punnathur Kotta
Photo: Marketing Emb / Wikimedia Commons
Known as the “Land of Elephants,” Punnathur Kotta is among the most unique tourist destinations close to Thrissur. Elephants are the focus of this vast 11.5-acre sanctuary. Comprising over sixty elephants, it provides guests with a unique chance to see these magnificent animals up close in a semi-natural environment. Seeing elephants, especially the playful babies, amid the lush greenery creates a mystical ambience. As you go around the grounds, you can see the mahouts tending to the elephants’ needs, including feeding and bathing.
Location: 28.5 km from Thrissur bus stand
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹10 per person and ₹25 for the camera
7. Kerala Kalamandalam
Photo: Arayilpdas / Wikimedia Commons
Kerala Kalamandalam stands as a cultural gem among the places to visit near Thrissur, embodying Kerala’s rich artistic heritage. Preserving and advancing South Indian traditional performing arts is the mission of this Deemed University of Arts & Culture. Perched on the banks of the Bharathapuzha River, the campus is a piece of art in which traditional Kerala architecture blends in well with the surrounding landscape. The institution provides a rare window into the demanding training regimen of these age-old artistic disciplines.
Location: 30.9 km from Thrissur bus stand
Timings: 9 AM – 5 AM
Entry Fees: ₹1000 for Indians and ₹1292 for Foreigners
Suggested Read: Thrissur Museum
8. Thrissur Zoo And State Museum
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons
The Thrissur Zoo and State Museum complex is an educational and enjoyable destination with various activities for guests of all ages. The zoo covers 13.5 acres and has realistic ecosystems for many animals, birds, and reptiles. Both exotic creatures from all over the globe and those indigenous to Kerala are seen by visitors. A well-kept Botanical Garden with various rare and native plant species is also part of the property. The State Museum, next door to the zoo, offers a fascinating trip through Kerala’s rich past and culture.
Location: 2.7 km from Thrissur bus stand
Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹5 for adults, ₹3 for children, ₹5 for a camera, and ₹500 for the video camera
9. Charpa Falls
Photo: Jan J George / Wikimedia Commons
Charpa Falls, a quieter alternative to Athirappilly Falls in Thrissur, is a hidden treasure. This 70-foot cascade is situated in a beautiful tropical jungle, providing a timeless scene. The waterfall plunges over moss-covered rocks into a beautiful, cold pool, great for a hot day swim. Birdwatchers and environment enthusiasts admire the area’s richness. A short trek through the forest leads visitors to the base of the falls, where they can feel the mist on their faces and hear the thunderous roar of the water.
Location: 61.0 km from Thrissur bus stand
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fees: Free
Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Thrissur
10. Chavakkad Beach
Photo: Fameleaf / Wikimedia Commons
Chavakkad Beach is a tranquil coastal retreat among the places to visit near Thrissur, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and local culture. This lengthy swath of golden beach is surrounded by a lovely tropical landscape made of casuarina and coconut palms. A vibrant fishing community is one of Chavakkad Beach’s special qualities. Local fishermen may be seen by visitors going about their daily business, gathering their catches, and repairing their nets. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxation opportunities, Chavakkad Beach provides one of the best attractions near Thrissur.
Location: 28.3 km from Thrissur bus stand
Timings: 6 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fees: Free
Natural marvels, cultural legacy, and spiritual experiences combine in a fascinating way in Thrissur and its surroundings. From majestic waterfalls to ancient temples, there’s no shortage of places to visit near Thrissur. This area offers plenty to satisfy everyone’s needs, whether they are adventure, leisure, or cultural immersion. Plan your next journey with TripXL and discover the rich traditions of Thrissur to create unforgettable memories.
Cover Photo: Krishd423 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only