Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple

Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, located in the town of Guruvayur in Thrissur district, is one of the most sacred and visited Hindu temples in Kerala. Dedicated to Lord Krishna in his child form, known as Guruvayurappan, the temple is renowned for its deep spiritual significance, centuries-old traditions, and the unwavering devotion of millions of followers across the world.

Guruvayur Temple is often referred to as the “Dwarka of the South” and is believed to be over 5,000 years old. The main deity is Lord Krishna, worshipped in the form of a child (Balakrishna), and is made of a rare stone called Patala Anjanam. Devotees believe that worshipping here is equivalent to visiting the famous Krishna temples of Mathura and Dwarka.

The temple follows strict rituals and dress codes, preserving its heritage and sanctity. Non-Hindus are not permitted entry into the inner sanctum, but can admire the grandeur from the outside. The daily pujas, Udayasthamana pooja, and traditional temple music contribute to the divine ambiance that resonates throughout the premises.

Adjacent to the temple is Punnathur Kotta, the famed elephant sanctuary, where over 50 temple elephants are housed and trained. Elephants play a significant role in temple festivals, especially during the grand Guruvayur Ekadasi and Chembai Sangeetholsavam.

The temple architecture reflects classic Kerala style, with tiled roofs, golden flagposts, and an aura of timeless devotion that draws lakhs of pilgrims yearly.

🚗 How to Reach

By Road: Well connected via NH544, around 29 km from Thrissur town

By Train: Guruvayur Railway Station is just 500 meters from the temple

By Air: Cochin International Airport is approximately 80 km away

🛕 Visitor Information

Temple Timings:
-> Morning: 3:00 AM – 12:30 PM

-> Evening: 4:30 PM – 9:15 PM

Unique Rituals:
- The "Tulabharam" ritual (offering equal weight in goods or money)

- "Thulabharam for children", a popular offering by devotees

- "Udayasthamana Pooja", a special full-day prayer performed from dawn to dusk

🎉 Main Festivals

-> Guruvayur Ekadasi (Nov–Dec): Grand procession, elephant parade, and deep devotion

-> Chembai Sangeetholsavam: Renowned classical music festival in memory of Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar

-> Vishu (April): Traditional Malayali New Year celebrations

-> Ashtami Rohini (Aug–Sep): Celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna

📞 Contact Information

Address: Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple,
East Nada, Guruvayur – 680101,
Thrissur District, Kerala, India

Phone: +91 487 2556335 / +91 487 2556799