Vadakkumnatha Temple, located in the heart of Thrissur city, is one of the oldest temples of Kerala. Built in typical traditional Kerala style of architecture, Vadakkumnatha Kshetram is decorated with murals and sculptures. Situated amidst Tekkinkadu (Forest of Teak trees) ground, atop a hillock, Vadakkumnatha Kshetram overlooks the city of Thrissur. The stone wall which encloses the temple and its premises consists of about 9 acres of land. The principal shrine of this temple has four lofty gopuras and an enclosed complex. This complex has three shrines dedicated to Lord Vadakkumnathan, Lord Sankaranarayana and Lord Rama. Lord Vadakkumnathan (Lord Shiva) is the principal deity of this temple. This temple also features Koothambalam, a theatre hall for staging Koothu, a traditional dramatic form of the temple art of Kerala. Vadakkumnatha Kshetram is popular for being the venue of Pooram festival, which is celebrated annually during April - May.