Thrissur Pooram
Apr–May, in the Malayalam month of Medam (lunar calendar)
The festival was established in the late 18th century by Sakthan Thampuran, the ruler of Kochi, who brought together the temples around Thrissur in a single celebration at the Vadakkunnathan temple. Two main groups, from the Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi temples, take opposite sides and compete in splendour, while several smaller temples send their own processions.
The day's highlights follow a set order. In the afternoon, the Elanjithara Melam, a percussion orchestra of more than a hundred musicians playing chenda, kuzhal, kombu and cymbals, builds over hours under a tree in the temple grounds. In the evening, each side lines up elephants with gold caparisons on Thekkinkadu Maidan for Kudamattam, raising rapidly changing sets of bright parasols in a competition of colour.
Before dawn the next morning, a huge fireworks display lights the sky over the city, and the festival ends with a formal farewell between the deities. The crowds are enormous and the heat intense. We book a room in the city and, where possible, a viewing position, and go with a local guide who knows the timings and safe spots.
How to do it well
- Book Thrissur rooms as soon as the date is announced, often a year ahead.
- Carry water, a hat and light clothing; temperatures are often above 33 °C with high humidity.
- Keep well back from the elephants and follow police and organiser instructions in the crowd.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
When is Thrissur Pooram?
It is held on the Pooram star day in the Malayalam month of Medam, usually in late April or May. The exact date changes every year and is announced in advance by the temple bodies, so check current status before you travel. Main events run for about 36 hours.
What is Kudamattam?
Kudamattam is the exchange of parasols on the elephants. The two rival temple groups line up their caparisoned elephants facing each other on Thekkinkadu Maidan, and riders raise sets of brightly coloured, ornate parasols in quick succession, each side trying to outdo the other. It is the visual highlight of the festival.
Is Thrissur Pooram safe for tourists?
It is generally well organised, but very crowded and hot. Stay with a guide, keep a safe distance from the elephants, avoid the densest parts of the crowd and follow police instructions. Families with young children and those uncomfortable in crowds should watch from a reserved viewpoint.
Can foreigners attend Thrissur Pooram?
Yes. The festival takes place in public spaces around the Vadakkunnathan temple and is open to everyone, though entry into the temple itself is restricted to Hindus. Visitors from across India and abroad attend. A local guide helps you find good viewing spots and understand the rituals.
Festival journeys
Routes built around the calendar
