Thrissur (Trichur), with its rich history, cultural heritage and archaeological wealth, is rich in cultural activities.

From ancient times, this district has played a significant role in the political history of south India. Trichur (Thrissur), the name derived from 'Tiru-Shiva-Perur' (the town with the name of Lord Shiva) is the cultural capital of Kerala.

Its most prominent feature is the Vadakkumnathan Kshetram or temple, which has Shiva as its presiding deity. Many rulers and dynasties beginning with the Zamorins of Kozhikode, Tipu Sultan of Mysore and Europeans including the Dutch and the British have had a hand in moulding the destiny of this region. Raja Rama Varma, popularly known as Sakthan Thampuran was the architect of the present Trichur town.

Today, Thrissur is world famous for its Pooram Festival, which is one of the biggest festivals of Kerala. Built around a hillock top, Trichur (Thrissur) houses the Kerala Kala Mandalam, the Kerala Sahitya Academy and Kerala Nataka Academy.