From ancient times, the district of Thrissur has played a significant role in the political history of south India. The early history of the district is interlinked with that of the
Cheras of the Sangam age, who ruled over vast portions of
Kerala with their capital at Vanchi. The whole of the present Thrissur District was included in the early Chera empire. The name 'Thrissur,' (earlier name, Trichur) is the abbreviated anglicized form of the
Malayalam word Thrissivaperur, meaning 'the town of sacred
Shiva'. The town is built on an elevated ground, at the apex of which is the famous
Vadakkunnathan Temple.
Thrissur is bounded by Malappuram District in the north, Idukki District and Ernakulam District in the south, Palakkad District in the east and the Arabian Sea in the west. The district covers an area of 3,032 sq km. Two of the longest rivers of the state,
Bharathapuzha and
Periyar, run through Thrissur District. Thrissur has a tropical humid climate with intermittent dry seasons and plentiful rainfall. The population is about 3 million. The total area under forests is over 1,000 sq km.
The cultural tradition can be traced back to very early days. There were great centers of learning and culture in the ancient and early medieval periods. The most colourful temple festival of Kerala, the
Thrissur Pooram, attracts large masses of devotees and spectators from all parts of the state and even from outside. Athirappilly Waterfalls, an 80 ft high waterfall situated at the threshold of the Sholayar ranges, is a popular picnic spot. Thrissur is linked to many major towns inside and outside Kerala by rail and road.
Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, 78 km away from the town of Thrissur.
