Vadukkumnathan

Vadakumnathan

"Vadakumnathan" / "Vadakkunnathan" temple is one of the oldest in South India according to the archaeologists. According to the legends, it was founded by Lord Parasurama and enshrines Lord Shiva as the principal deity.

Vadakkkunnathan Temple literaly meaning lord of the North; Vadakku = North, Nathan = Lord is one of the largest Shiva temples in Kerala. Vadakkkunnathan temple is located in Thrissur in Kerala and is over 2000 years old This temple is a classic example of the Kerala style of architecture with beautiful murals of the seventeenth century delineating graphically the story of Mahabharata. The shrines and the Koothambalam display exquisite vignettes carved in wood. It is believed that this temple was built by Parasurama.

Legends say that Adi Sankaracharya was born, after his parents, who were childless for many years, prayed at the Vadakkumnathan (vRashAcala) temple.

The sprawling Thekkinkadu maidan, en circling the Vadakumnathan temple, is the main venue of the Thrissur Pooram.