Wanna be on a vehement South Indian Tour? Let’s give you a reason, why you should. Onam, the harvest festival of Kerala, is celebrated with great gusto every year. On the fourth day of Onam, dancers dress up as tigers and leopards and dance down the streets, creating a stunning spectacle of colors and movement. Interactive and engaging, the Tiger Dance is a treat for the eyes. Get involved in the festivities and join in the fun! If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to visit Thrissur this Onam!

By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to Thrissur. One can hire a taxi to reach the destination which is located at a distance of 52 km from the airport.By Rail: Thrissur Railway Station is one of the well-connected stations in India. Buses and autos are available from the station to the destination which is located at a 1.9 km distance.By Road: Many public and private buses are seen running through the city which makes it easier to reach the destination.

The Puli Kali festival is a unique and vibrant celebration that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. From its traditional roots to its lively performances, Puli Kali is sure to enliven your senses and leave you in awe. It is a fun and colourful event that brings joy and entertainment to people of all ages. Whether you're looking for an interactive experience or just to witness a vibrant display of art and culture, Pulikali is the perfect event for you! So join in the festivities and enjoy the colourful display of art, music, and dance.

<h2>History</h2> In Onam celebrations, the traditional art form of Puli Kali is one of the most vibrant and captivating events. People of all ages, from men to women and children, come together to transform themselves into tigers and tigresses. Shaving off body hair and then painting the body with specially-made paint—this art form takes a whole day to complete. Today, performers use accessories like fake teeth, mustaches, masks, and tongues to complete the look. Celebrated for over 200 years, Puli Kali is a must-see event during Onam!

<h2>Main Attractions</h2> Do you want to witness the vibrant and colorful celebration of Puli Kali? Every year, hundreds of men, painted as tigers, perform their peculiar dance steps across Swaraj Round during the Onam festival. The troupe with the best body paintings, dance, and overall performance is awarded a cash prize. So, are you ready to experience the festive spirit of Kerala?

<h2 class="ql-align-justify">01. Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Museum</h2> Planning a trip to Thrissur? Don't miss out on the unique and captivating Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Museum! It is situated in Thaikkattussery near Ollur and offers a journey through the ages of Ayurveda. From the Vedic era, when Ayurveda was discovered, to the contemporary period, the museum showcases it all through sculptures, pictures, and dioramas. There is a digital theatre for audio-visual shows, a library with old manuscripts, and a collection of 300 medicinal plants. There are four knowledgeable guides to help you around, so be sure to visit this one-of-a-kind museum and explore the evolution of Ayurveda!Traveler's Information:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Location: Thaikkattussery Road, Opp. Vaidyaratnam Post Office, Thaikkattussery, Thrissur</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Timings: 9:00 AM - 6.00 PM</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Distance from Thrissur: 9.6 KM</li></ul>

<h2 class="ql-align-justify">02. Vadakkumnathan Temple</h2> Have you ever heard of the 1000-year-old Vadakkumnathan Temple? Located in Thrissur, it is famous for its collection of 400-year-old mural paintings and the Nataraja Mural near the main gate. It also hosts the shrine of Vadakkumnathan, which has been covered completely with ghee for centuries without melting. Don't forget to check out the Koothambalam, the largest Dance Hall in the temple, which displays unique Keralan architecture. It is home to traditional performances called Nangyar Koothu. Are you ready to explore this majestic temple?Traveler's Information:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Location: Near G6F7+QRR Sri Vadakkumnathan Temple, Swaraj Round N, Kuruppam, Thekkinkadu Maidan, Thrissur</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Timings: 4 AM to 8 PM&nbsp;</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Distance from Thrissur: 550 M</li></ul>

<h2 class="ql-align-justify">03. Bible Tower</h2> Thrissur, India is home to the tallest church tower in Asia, the Bible Tower. Standing at an impressive 260 feet, the tower is dedicated to world peace. It is also certified as an earthquake-proof structure. Climb the Bible Tower, and you'll be mesmerized by the wonderful artwork that adorns it. Stained glass and wood carvings depict the childhood of Jesus Christ, terra cotta paintings of apostles, and brass miracles of Christ. At the top of the tower is a lit red cross, symbolizing the presence of the Roman Catholic Church. Visit this incredible place and discover the beauty of the Bible Tower for yourself.Traveler's Information:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Location: G6C9+CC2, Erinjeri Angadi, Latin Church Road, Erinjeri, Thrissur</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Timings: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (closed on Monday)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Distance from Thrissur: 1.6&nbsp; KM</li></ul>

<h2 class="ql-align-justify">04. Thrissur Zoo</h2> Head out for an exciting and educational trip to the Thrissur Zoo and State Museum! Housing a wide variety of animals, reptiles, birds, and more, the zoo is a great place to explore the beauty of nature and the rich history of Kerala. Visit the Zoological Garden, Botanical Garden, and Natural History Museum to behold a unique collection of wood carvings, metal sculptures, Kathakali figures, and traditional lamps. Don't miss out on the special building that's home to King Cobras, Cobras, Pythons, Kraits, Vipers, and Rat Snakes. With something for everyone, the zoo is sure to make your day memorable!Traveler's Information:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Location: Town Hall Road, Udaya Nagar, Chembukkav, Thrissur&nbsp;</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:15 PM</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Distance from Thrissur: 1.6 KM</li></ul>

<h2 class="ql-align-justify">05. Peechi Dam</h2> Are you looking for an exciting picnic spot near Thrissur? Then Peechi Dam is the perfect place for you! Located at a distance of 23 km from the town, this dam is spread across an area of 3200 acres and supplies drinking water to Thrissur. Peechi Dam also offers amazing boating facilities for visitors. Moreover, the nearby Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. So, don’t wait anymore and plan a visit to this fantastic spot with your family and friends!Traveler's Information:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Location: Peechi, Thrissur</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:30 PM</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Distance from Thrissur: 22 KM</li></ul>

Puli Kali: The Tiger's Dance in Kerala

India > Kerala

Khushi Agarwal 9 May 2026

Explore in Kerala

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