Paramekkavu Bagavathi Temple in Thrissur

Nearest railway station: Thrissur Railway Station (2 km)
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (52 km)

A story states that once upon a time, one of the heads of the Nair family used to visit the Devi daily. One day, because of his old age, he decided that he would have to stop his temple visits. On the last day of his visit, he sought Devi’s blessings. On his way back from the temple, he decided to rest. After taking a rest, he was ready to go back home. He lifted his umbrella, but it was stuck to the ground. A sage was passing by there at that time. After knowing the story, he understood everything. He explained that the old man, Devi, is now residing under his umbrella. After this incident, the Paramekavu Bhagavathy temple was built here.

Daru Shilpa or the Wooden Idol

The idol of Goddess Durga is seen in the Paramekavu Bhagavathy temple in the form of Goddess Bhagavathy. In 1997, the Goddess’s original idol was damaged and replaced by another wooden statue of Devi with eight arms in a seated position.

Festivals at Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple

Thrissur Pooram is the most popular festival celebrated here by the locals. On this day, the Goddess from the temple had gone to meet Lord Shiva in the Vadakkunnathan Temple. A friendly rivalry takes place between Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple and Thiruvambady Temple. A procession of 15 temples arrives at the premises of the Vadakkumnathan temple.

The procession of the temple faces each other, competing to showcase themselves as the best one in decorations, lighting, peacock quills, and umbrellas on the decorated elephants. The other important festivals celebrated here are Sivarathri, Makara Chowa, and Navaratri.