Vadakkumnathan Temple

The Vadakkumnathan Temple is majestic in the heart of the city. The temple is more than 1000 years old.  Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the stunning architecture of the temple is a beautiful example of the temple of the state. 

The Vadakkumnathan Temple has won several prestigious awards for conservation.  The temple has a collection of beautiful murals over 400 years old. The Natraja mural is acknowledged to be the best mural,  is near the main gate.  There are 3 shrines in the inner sanctum.  The shrine of Vadakkumnathan is on the left side. The idol is covered in ghee. The other shrines in the temple are of  Mahavishnu and Shankaranarayan. The temple features a large dance hall, called Koothambalam typical of Kerala architecture. Traditional performances called Nangyar Koothu are performed in the hall. 

There are two temples Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple and Paramekkavu Devi Temple outside Vadakkumnathan Temple. Devotees consider the temples to be the sister temples of Vadakummnathan. Only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple.

There are two festivals at the temple that are celebrated with a lot of devotion and grandeur. The Maha Shivaratri has devotees coming to the temple through the night. The annual festival the  Thrissur Pooram is held in April-May at the Thekkinkaadu Maidanam.  It is most important Pooram.  Sakthan Thampuran started the festival in association with ten other temples.