The town is built an a rising ground on the apex of which is the oldest and largest temple complex in the state, the Vadakunnathan temple complex, famous since the 8th century AD. Its boundaries are defined by a thick and lofty masonry wall with massive pagoda shaped gateways on all the four sides that provide a marvelous backdrop of the pageantry of the famous Trichur Pooram festival, held in April-May every year. Outside the wall is an open ground which was once a dense teak forest and hence it is known as Tekkinkadu
(teak forest). The temple and the surrounding open area measuring about 3.6 hectares are encircled by a wide circular road called the Swara Round.
Highways radiate from this focal point in all directions.
The temple has three sanctum sanctorum, dedicated to Lord Shiva as Vadakunathan, Sri Sankaranarayanan and Sri Rama, installed by Parasurama according to the legend. Exquisite adorn, paintings and sculptures adorn the walls of the temple.
Monday, 07/05/2012, 6.30 pm
Bharatham, "NAVARAMAYANAM" - Thematic Presentation in Kuchipudy style "NAVARAMAYANAM" is a path-breaking imagination based on our epic Ramayana and reveals the crookedness of our modern rulers who are still exploiting their "Prajas” [people].
Here “Balakanda" Is not having an enthusiastic festival mood as in “Ayodhya” but depicts the pathetic conditions of the childhood scattered In the street .
"Ayodhya Kanda" picturises the hidden agenda of "Mandharas·& "Kaikeyees”· whose selfish motives causes various calamities .
”Aranya Kanda" reveals the pity condition of "Bhoomikanya”·who is still In the street without a shelter and yet to be recovered.
“Sundara Kanda" shows the illegal political bonds between “Nara & Vanara” showcasing the darker side of the society.
"Yudha Kanda" still remains so but with o difference that the war continues with Rama & Ravana on one side and Seetha ( Praja) on the other side .