Vadakkumnathan Temple – Famous Lord Shiva Temple in Thrissur
The Vadakkumnathan Temple, located in Thrissur, Kerala, is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. It stands as a classical example of Kerala's architectural style, featuring a monumental tower on each of its four sides and a koothambalam. According to belief, it is the first Shiva temple established by Lord Parasurama, the mythical sage and sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. The main deity, Lord Shiva, is worshipped as Vadakkunathan.
Vadakkumnathan Temple - Kerala
Exemplifying traditional Kerala-style architecture, Vadakkunnathan Temple is a timeless marvel crafted in wood and stone. Spread across 9 acres, the temple boasts four massive gateways facing the cardinal directions – East, West, North, and South. Inside the temple, mural paintings portraying scenes from the Mahabharata adorn the walls. Adorned with stunning wood carvings, idols, and captivating murals, the temple received the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2015. It is also recognized as a National Monument under the AMASR Act. In 2012, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) recommended including Vadakkumnathan Temple and other sites in Kerala on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.
Vadakkunathan Temple takes pride in hosting the world-renowned Thrissur Pooram, a grand cultural and religious festival that attracts devotees and spectators from across the globe. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment or wish to explore Kerala's cultural and architectural heritage, Vadakkunathan Temple extends a warm welcome to all.
Entry/Darshan Time
4 AM to 11 AM
5 PM to 8:20 PM
Specialty
Unlike the usual clockwise direction of worship in temples, Vadakkunathan Temple follows an anti-clockwise direction.
The Shiva Linga at Vadakkunathan Temple is adorned with a mound of ghee towering at 9 feet.
While murals are typically not objects of worship, the mural depicting Vasuki Sayana (Lord Shiva in a reclining pose) in Vadakkunathan Temple is venerated daily.
Dress Code
Devotees are encouraged to don traditional attire while visiting Vadakkunathan Temple. Women should wear either a Saree or Salwar Kameez (Churidar), and men should opt for either a Dhoti or trousers. Also, it is important to note that men are not allowed to wear shirts when entering the temple premises. Modern dresses like jeans, shorts, short skirts, etc. are strictly prohibited inside the temple premises.
Festivals
Maha Shivaratri
Thrissur Pooram
Aanayoottu
Best Time to Visit
Throughout the year
How to reach
By Air : Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, 53 Km away from Vadakkunathan Temple. From the airport, you can avail of public transport or get a cab/ taxi to reach the temple.
By Train :The nearest railway station is Thrissur Railway Station, just 3.7 Km away from the Vadakkunathan Temple. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Road :Vadakkunathan Temple is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.