Understand

Step back in time and discover the ancient town of Paravur, one of the oldest towns in South India. Its rich history dates back to 52 B.C., when the Cheras, an ancient Tamil tribe, chose Paravur as their capital due to its natural port and strategic location. Explore the streets of Paravur and you'll witness the distinct architectural style of Tamil Brahmin houses, a testament to the community's longstanding presence in the area. This town is a melting pot of various cultures, with Konkani, Udupi, Thulu, Tamil, Andhra, Bengali, Saraswat, Iyengar, and Konkanstha Brahmins coexisting with other communities. Embrace the diverse culinary traditions of Paravur, with many vegetarian restaurants run by these communities, including the renowned Sukh Saagar. The mighty Periyar river flows through this region, creating a landscape dotted with small islands. This fertile land has been a haven for agriculture for centuries, contributing to the region's prosperity. Paravur, once known as Murichipattanam or Muziris, enjoyed international fame as a thriving trading hub. Its extensive trading relations with ancient civilizations like Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome, and China propelled it into the global spotlight. Palaces, temples, and a rich Dravidian cultural heritage adorned the city. However, wars with neighboring Tamil states and the devastating Periyar floods in 1344 led to Muziris' decline. The Cholas successfully raided and set fire to the city, leaving it lost in the annals of history. The Kochi Kingdom took control of Paravur, encouraging farming and granting asylum to a large number of Jews in the 14th century. The town witnessed fierce battles between the Portuguese and the Dutch, ultimately leading to Portuguese defeat. Paravur's complex history also saw it divided into North Paravur and South Paravur, under the rule of Travancore and Kochi respectively. These divisions were later unified, but the name North Paravur (Parur) prevailed. Today, Paravur has transformed from a small countryside hamlet to a bustling suburb of Kochi. Its proximity to the city has made it a sought-after residential area, providing affordable housing options. Improved infrastructure, such as the Gosri bridge and the container terminal road, has shortened the distance to Kochi, enabling an easy commute. So, embark on a journey through time in Paravur, where ancient traditions, historical wonders, and fertile landscapes await you!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish: Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)Butter chicken is a rich and creamy curry made with marinated chicken pieces cooked in a tomato-based sauce. The dish originated in the Indian subcontinent and gained popularity in Canada due to the large population of Indian immigrants. It's typically served with basmati rice and naan bread. Butter chicken contains meat – chicken.

Dish: BiryaniBiryani is a popular rice dish made by cooking Basmati rice with meat (usually chicken, goat, or fish), vegetables, yogurt, and a blend of spices. It originates from the Indian subcontinent and is often considered the national dish of Pakistan. It's known for its flavorful layers and distinct aroma. Biryani contains meat – primarily chicken, goat, or fish.

Dish: SamosasSamosas are deep-fried or baked pastry snacks filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, onions, peas, and sometimes meat. They originate from South Asia and have become a popular street food across India. Often served as an appetizer or a quick snack, samosas can be found at roadside stalls, train stations, and even weddings. Samosas can contain meat – typically potatoes, onions, and peas, but some varieties may include meat such as chicken or lamb.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing