Vadakkunnathan Temple

The second principal temple of the Thrissur Pooram, competing with Paramekkavu Bhagavathy in the grandest elephant procession in Kerala. The Thiruvambady Sri Krishna's elephant procession and the climactic 'Kudamattam' (umbrella exchange between the two groups) is the centrepiece of Thrissur Pooram festival.

One of the two principal temples of the world-famous Thrissur Pooram festival. Goddess Paramekkavu is brought out in procession on 30+ caparisoned elephants on Pooram day (Thrissur Pooram). The 'Kudamattam' (umbrella exchange between the two Pooram groups) is one of the most photographed events in Kerala's culture.

One of only two temples in India dedicated to Bharata — the loyal younger brother of Rama from the Ramayana. Bharat is worshipped here as 'Koodalmanikyam' (Manikyam of the confluence). The temple also has a unique tradition: the deity Bharata is worshipped facing Ayodhya (north), always looking toward his elder brother Rama.

A revered Krishna temple in Kerala, one of the most visited Vaishnava shrines in South India, where the deity is worshipped as Guruvayurappan. Known as 'Bhuloka Vaikunta' (Vaikuntha on earth), the temple's elephants — housed at the nearby Punnathur Kotta sanctuary — are famous throughout Kerala and take part in its major festivals.