Thrissur lies on the west end of Palakkad gap through the low pass between the Nilgiris and the Palani hills. It is the beautiful cultural capital of Kerala and a land of colourful festivals. Thrissur, an abbreviation of 'Tiru-Siva-Perur' or the town with the name of Lord Siva, is appropriately named. The central and the most important feature of this city is the Vadakkunath Kshetram (temple) where the reigning deity is Lord Siva. It is particularly famous for its annual Pooram festival (April-May).Tourist attractions in Thrissur lie in its old temples, cultural centers for paintings, dances and literature and splendid festivals.

One of the oldest temple in the state, The Vadakumnatha temple is a classical example of the Kerala style of architecture and has many decorative murals and pieces of art. The temple sits atop a hill in the center of Thrissur. This is the venue of the world famous Pooram festival celebrated annually in April -May every year. Non-Hindus are not permitted inside the temple except during the pooram festival. In addition to its religious function, the temple was the center of an extensive administration with legal and tax raising powers. The temple is also known as the Rishabhari or Thenkailasam ( the Kailash of the south). It open from 4 to 10.30 in the morning and 5 to 8.30 in the evening.

It is situated near the Art Museum. The zoo contains 13.5 acres of land with cool green, flowered area and there resides a variety of fauna such as the endangered lion, tailed macaque, tiger, lion, sloth bear, several species of deer and many birds. It is reputed to have one of the best snake collections in India. The snake park has the reptilian collection of the King cobra, pythons, kraits, vipers, rat snakes, etc. It will be open from 3pm to 5.15pm. Small entry and camera fee. There is an aquarium near Nehru Park which is open daily from 3pm to 8pm.

This is the largest elephant park in the world. Elephant races and feasts for elephant are unique features here.