Just 30 km from Thrissur, on the banks of Bharatapuzha River.
Vazhalikkavu Bhagavathy Temple is around 30 kilometres from the Thrissur town centre, but the journey is well worth it and is one of the best things to do in Thrissur. The temple is situated right on the banks of the Bharatapuzha River. Location - https://goo.gl/maps/mDe1NKpdCujaoX7PA
Suggested time for visit - Early morning 7-8 AM and evening from 5.30 PM.
This is one of the few temples in Kerala that has Koothumadam and the place is known to host the famous Pavakoothu performance.
I visited in mid-April, during the summer months, and was expecting the place to be hot and dry, but the water level of the river was adequate enough for kids to play around in. So easily you can leave your kids in the water and you can chill nearby.
The best time to visit is in the evening. Or else, you should visit early morning like 7ish. Else, the chances of you getting fried are more. Packing some tea/coffee snacks is recommended if you like to chill while enjoying the sunset with Bharatapuzha as the backdrop.
The place has also been the location for movies such as Narasimham, Odiyan, Chandrotsavam, etc. Ref. https://m3db.com/location/112544 .
On the other side, even though I really liked the place, the temple doesn't have that old-school charm that I am fond of. Inside, it is OK. But outside, I didn't feel that old-school beauty. But, that's the case with most of the Bhagavathy temples I guess. But the place compensates for it all and can be listed as one of the best places to see in Thrissur.
