Sree Vadakkumnathan temple - venue of the world famous pooram

Vadakkumnathan temple in Thrissur is one of the ancient temples of Kerala built in the Kerala style of architecture. Dedicated to Vadakkumnatha (Lord Shiva), the temple contains a rich collection of fine murals.

Other deities include Sankaranarayana, Lord Ganapati, Lord Rama and Vettekkaran. Neyyabhishekam or bathing the idol in ghee is the main offering to Lord Vadakkumnatha. This centuries old ritual has left the idol almost completely covered a heap of ghee.

A mighty Koothambalam, the traditional temple theatre is also situated in the temple premises. Every year Koothu is held here for 41 days ending on the day of Vidyarambham followed by Kutiyattam. The exquisitely carved Koothambalam is one of the biggest of its kind in the state.

The famed Thrissur Pooram is held in the grounds of this temple. Interestingly, the Vadakkumnathan temple is not a participant of the Pooram.

Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple.