Vadakkunnathan Temple is an ancient Hindu shrine in Thrissur (Kerala). This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is said that this temple was founded by the sage Parashuram to expiate his sin of killing the Kshatriyas 21 times. Another version says that Lord Shiva was pleased with the prayers of Parashuram, Lord Shiva granted him a boon. Sage Parashuram was blessed with a Shivalinga that was installed in this shrine.
It Is Known For:-
1) The exemplary Kerala style of architecture
2) The labyrinthine carvings and paintings depicting the scenes from the Hindu epic Mahabharata
3) The huge painting of Natraja, a form of Lord Shiva with 20 arms
4) The celebration of the festivals like Mahashivaratri, Aanayoottu, Thrissur Pooram
5) The stringent rules that devotees have to follow each time. Moreover, the Non-Hindus aren't allowed to enter the temple premises
Best Time To Visit:-
No one has to wait for a specific season to pay a visit here. Vadakkunnathan Temple is a renowned shrine and can be visited throughout the year. However, if you want to witness it festooned beautifully, you should visit in during the annual festival celebration of Aanayoottu and Thrissur Pooram. These festivals are celebrated with a great enthusiasm at Vadakkunnathan Temple.
Not only this, the temple is ornamented exquisitely on the occasion of Mahashivaratri that is another major festival here. Vadakkunnathan Temple is flooded with the followers of the Shaivaites. The zealous devotees perform the mahaabhishek on the Shivalinga.