Thrissur Pooram
Thrissur Pooram – The Grand Festival of Festivals in Kerala
When the rhythmic beats of chenda drums echo across the city, and the sky lights up with dazzling fireworks, you know it’s time for the Thrissur Pooram — Kerala’s most spectacular and vibrant temple festival. Held every year at the iconic Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur, this celebration is a dazzling showcase of Kerala’s culture, devotion, and artistic grandeur.
Described as the “Mother of All Poorams,” the festival brings together thousands of devotees, locals, and tourists from around the world to witness a breathtaking spectacle of color, sound, and tradition.
A Celebration of Unity and Culture
The Thrissur Pooram was first organized in the late 18th century by Sakthan Thampuran, the Maharaja of Cochin, as a way to unite temples from the surrounding regions. Today, it continues to symbolize harmony and inclusivity, where multiple temples come together in friendly competition under the divine gaze of Lord Shiva of Vadakkunnathan Temple.
The festival, held during the Malayalam month of Medam (April–May), lasts for 36 hours of continuous celebration, filling the city with music, devotion, and sheer energy.
Highlights of Thrissur Pooram
Parade of Caparisoned Elephants: The most iconic sight — dozens of beautifully decorated elephants line up face-to-face, carrying golden nettipattam (ornaments), umbrellas, and fans in a majestic display.
Melam (Traditional Orchestra): The air reverberates with the powerful beats of Chenda Melam and Panchavadyam, performed by hundreds of skilled artists in perfect rhythm.
Fireworks Extravaganza: The night sky over Thrissur explodes in color during the famous fireworks display, known for its creativity, scale, and sound.
Kudamattam Ceremony: Witness the dazzling spectacle of colorful parasols (umbrellas) being exchanged on elephant-back — a visual treat and the festival’s highlight.
Devotional Processions: The two main temple groups — Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu — lead vibrant processions to the Vadakkunnathan Temple, accompanied by music and devotees.
A Photographer’s Dream
From sunrise to midnight, Thrissur Pooram is a visual feast — elephants adorned with gold, musicians performing in perfect harmony, and the crowd swaying to the rhythm of devotion. Every frame captures the essence of Kerala’s cultural soul.
For photographers and filmmakers, it’s one of the most colorful and dramatic festivals in India, offering endless opportunities for stunning shots.
Best Time to Visit
The Thrissur Pooram is celebrated annually in April or May, based on the Malayalam calendar. To witness the full grandeur, plan your visit two days before the main Pooram day, as pre-festival processions and rituals begin early.
Main Venues: Vadakkunnathan Temple and Thekkinkadu Maidan (Thrissur City Center)
How to Reach
Location: Thrissur City, Central Kerala
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (55 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Thrissur Railway Station (2 km)
By Road: Well-connected via NH544 and state highways from Kochi, Palakkad, and Kozhikode.
Why Attend Thrissur Pooram?
Experience India’s most vibrant temple festival
Witness decorated elephants, orchestras, and fireworks
Explore the cultural and spiritual soul of Kerala
Perfect for festival lovers, photographers, and culture enthusiasts