kerala tourism guruvayoor

How it works

• 1 Tell us details of your holiday plan.
• 2 Our Tour Experts will customize the plan based upon your requirements & will email the tour quote with 2-3 different hotel options.
• 3 Select & book best deal.

+91 9350-098-600

Kerala enquiry form, why travel with us.

Best Price Guaranteed

Package Customization

24X7 Trip Assistance

Guruvayur– kerala travel guide.

Guruvayur is a pious pilgrimage town in the Thrissur district of God’s Own Country. Also known as the ‘Dwarka of South’, this scenic town is the home to the sacred Guruvayur Shri Krishna Temple. Revered as the fourth largest temple in the country, this temple has a unique trait. Unlike most of the temples in Kerala, it is built in the form of a typical Malabar-styled house. Even the architecture is not at all grand, but follows the simple layout.

Legends have it that Vayu Deva and Brhaspathi brought the stature of Lord Krishna from Dwarka on the Lord’s wish, and installed it in Guruvayur. Since then, this town has become a prominent pilgrimage centre for the followers of Lord Krishna. The temple is also believed to be a pious destination to tie the nuptial bonds; every year, thousands of couple reach out to Guruvayur Shri Krishna Temple to tie the eternal bond!

How to Reach Guruvayur

Guruvayur has a well-sorted network of roads that connects it to all the corners of Kerala. If you are planning to reach Guruvayur by road, you can take the state-run buses from all the major cities in God’s Own Country or opt for private transportations. Also, since the local bus stand is only a stone’s throw away from the temple, you would not find any difficulty in reaching the destination.

2 By Train:

Guruvayur has its own railway station which is linked with the Madras-Mangalore train line. To reach Guruvayur by train, visitors can also board local trains plying in and outward from Kochi, Trivandrum, and other popular cities in Kerala.

Kochi International Airport is the nearest airport to reach Guruvayur by air. The airport is around 90km away from the temple town, and has enough of road transport options to reach Guruvayur by road.

Best Time to Visit Guruvayur:

Winter (October – February) – Best Time:  October to February is considered as the best time to visit Guruvayur. During this period the region experiences a lower moderate temperature and proves to be an ideal time for various tourist activities.

Summer (March – May) – Good Time:  This may not the best time to visit Guruvayur, but it is the peak time for the devotees to visit the Guruvayur Shri Krishna Temple and seek blessings from the Lord. Since the town gets crowded, hotel prices and other tourism cost spikes up during the summer making it a good-to-go time to visit Guruvayur.

Monsoon (June – September) – Good Time:  Kerala is much known for its colourful cultures and festivals; especially Onam. Monsoon is the time when the entire state unites as one, and celebrates this holy festival with high spirit and vigour. Even though the region receives adequate amount of rainfall, monsoon still can be called as a good time to visit Guruvayur.

Places to Visit aroundGuruvayur:

Guruvayur Shri Krishna Temple:  If you are planning to visit Guruvayur, you simply cannot miss this pious temple. The most prominent landmark of the temple town it is among the most devout pilgrimage in the country.

Punnathurkotta Elephant Palace:  A palace for the giant elephants, this complex has around 65 elephants that are assigned to the Guruvayur Shri Krishna Temple. Mainly an elephant-care centre, this is the place where the inhabitants are taken care, fed, and trained to take out processions during the temple ceremonies.

Mammiyoor Shiva Temple:  With Lord Shiva as the presiding deity, this sacred temple is at a close hand to the Guruvayur Shri Krishna Temple. A visit to this temple is compulsory to complete any pilgrimage in Guruvayur.

Institute of Mural Painting:  This is the in fact the best place to learn more about the colourful cultures of Kerala through mural paintings. Initiated in 1989, it offers various courses in mural painting, sculpture, arts, and aesthetics.

Parthasarthy Temple:  On a visit to this holy establishment, visitors can witness Lord Krishna depicting Bhagwat Gita to Arjuna while seated on a chariot. Parthasarthy Temple is located around 1km from the much acclaimed Guruvayur Shri Krishna Temple.

ThiruVenkatachalapathy Temple:  Lord Balaji, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is worshipped here as the main deity. It also has other Gods within the main complex.

Harikanyaka Temple: A temple preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India, Harikanyaka Temple worships Lord Vishnu in a virgin form. Built by Perumthachan, it is a must visit religious spot in Guruvayur.

VallabhattaKalari: In addition to the natural beauty and appeal, Kerala is also known for its varied martial arts form. On a visit to VallabhattaKalari, visitors can have a lively glimpse of how these art forms are practised.

Devaswom Museum:  Unlike other museums, Devaswom Museum houses a wide collection of temple antiques, sacred materials, folk musical instruments, mural paintings, valuable temple jewelleries, and other such belongings. Unique and different, it also has collections of folk arts and forms.

Festivals in Guruvayur:

Guruvayur Ekadasi:  This holy festival is celebrated on the eleventh day of ‘VrishchikaEkadasi’ (or SuklaPaksha). Following the many different rituals, the temple also conducts a magnificent elephant procession to the Parthasarathi Temple from the complex of Shri Krishna Temple. The festival concludes with an enthralling elephant competition.

ChembaiSangeetholsavam: With a history of around 60 years, this music festival has become a synonym to Guruvayur now. During the eve, around 2000-3000 musicians throng this place to participate in the 12-15 days’ long Carnatic music fest.

Hotels around Guruvayur:

Though a quaint and tiny temple town, Guruvayur is dotted with a striking range of hotels and other stay options. Visitors here, would find hotels from within different budget groups and offering a sorted list of amenities and facilities.

OUR BEST SELLING PACKAGES

4 Night / 5 Days

5 Night / 6 Days

6 Night / 7 Days

7 Night / 8 Days

8 Night / 9 Days

WhatsApp us

Get Free Quotes Call Now

Temples Of Kerala

Lattitude: 10.5945568,  Longitude: 76.03717

Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Swamy Temple

Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Swamy Temple is one of the most renowned pilgrim centres in South India. It is considered the holy abode of Lord Krishna and is situated in the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala architectural style. One of the most popular offerings at Guruvayoor temple is Thulabharam , where devotees are weighed against bananas, sugar, jaggery and coconuts equivalent to their weight, on a giant pair of scales.

Structures like Nalambalam (temple structure surrounding sanctum sanctorum), Balikkal (sacrificial stone) and Deepastambam (Pillar of lights) are situated in the temple premises. The wall of the sanctum sanctorum is decked with ancient 17th-century murals.

Besides a 10-day festival in Feb -March, the temple has several other festivals – Guruvayoor Ekadashi, Vaishakam and Ashtami Rohini are some among them. Guruvayoor Aanayottam (elephant race) is another famous event that happens here.

Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, Park View, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India - 695 033 Phone: +91 471 2321132, Fax: +91 471 2322279, E-mail: [email protected] . All rights reserved © Kerala Tourism 2024. Copyright | Terms of Use | Cookie Policy | Contact Us . Developed & Maintained by Invis . 1-800-425-4747 (within India only) Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, Park View, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India - 695 033 Phone: +91 471 2321132, Fax: +91 471 2322279, E-mail: [email protected] . All rights reserved © Kerala Tourism 2024. Copyright | Terms of Use | Cookie Policy | Contact Us . Developed & Maintained by Invis Multimedia. -->

• Group Enquiry? NEW
• 15 Best Places to Visit in Guruvayur

Here are some of the best places to visit in Guruvayur:

Quick navigation, guruvayur temple.

Considered as one of the most ancient temples in India, Guruvayur Temple is one of the most famous tourist places in Guruvayur . The temple holds a special place in the hearts of Hindus as it is dedicated to the worship of one of the most revered forms of Lord Vishnu. Besides its cultural and religious importance, the temple is also famous among tourists for its magnificent traditional architecture. The holy environs, the sound of bells ringing and the chant of mantras make a visit to this place calming and relaxing. Animal lovers will find themselves right at home too – the temple is home to 56 Asian elephants with whom you can play, bathe and interact in a safe environment. Location - Guruvayur Devaswom, East Nada, Guruvayur Timings - All days of the week 3:00 AM - 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM - 9:30 PM Entry fees - no entry fees.

Best of Kerala

Elephant Camp Sanctuary

Just a meagre 3 km from Guruvayur temple, the Elephant Camp Sanctuary is one of the most fun Guruvayur tourist places . A brilliant place to visit both for adults and children, the complex houses over 60 majestic Asian elephants roaming around casually in the lush green surroundings and deep forests of Guruvayur. If you are wildlife enthusiast, have a great time watching the elephants playing amongst themselves and enjoying their surroundings. Or get up close and participate in the rituals of elephant worship and elephant feeding. Or take your kids along and let them have fun with the animals. The elephants are an essential part of daily temple rituals which are a treat to watch. Location -   Kottapadi Road, Trishul, Iringaprom Timings - 9 AM to 5 PM every day Entry fees - INR10

Best of Munnar

Chamundeshwari Temple

Over a century old, the Chamundeshwari temple is one of the most spiritual Guruvayur tourist places . Hindu devotees consider the place a holy shrine to calm your senses and find some spiritual guidance. The temple is dedicated to Chamundeshwari Devi, one of the fiercest forms of Maa Durga. The temple complex is beautifully designed and the statue of the Devi is made of five metals - gold, lead, copper, iron and silver. Every year, thousands of tourists visit the place to get blessings of the Devi, as well as for meditation and achieving serenity and tranquility. The beautiful exteriors of the place are an added bonus. Location -   Inner Ring Road, North Nada, Mammiyoor, Guruvayur Timings - 5 AM to 8 PM, every day Entry fees - no entry fees

Best of Wayanad

Chavakkad Beach

Famous among nature lovers and weary travelers looking for a place to relax, the Chavakkad Beach is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Guruvayur . The beach is a famous tourist hotbed for a unique phenomenon – the confluence of river and sea. The tangerine sun setting over the turquoise sea are a surreal site and provide a romantic setting that is to die for. Take your partner along for an evening stroll and make memories that you will cherish for a lifetime. You can also find a quiet spot on the beach to celebrate picnic with your family. Location - Thrissur Timings - 6 AM to 6.30 PM, every day Entry fees - no entry fee

Best of Alleppey

Palayur Church

One of the most magnificent Guruvayur tourist places, the Church at Palayur is unique in both its history and present state. History buffs will find it fascinating that the church was established in 52 CE, that is almost 2 millennia ago. It is now considered that it one of the seven churches constructed by one of Jesus’ apostles. That’s why, the church holds a special in the hearts of Christian population. But there is another reason to go and visit this majestic building – every year a festival is held for two days that features colourful fireworks, beautiful pageants and moving orchesta performances. Location - Palayoor Road, Palayoor, Trichur District, Chavakkad Timings - 7 AM to 6 PM, every day Entry fees - no entry fee

Best of Kochi

Mammiyur Mahadeva Temple

The locals around Guruvayur believe that the visit to Guruvayur temple is incomplete without also visiting the Mammiyur mahadeva temple. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva along with shrines of Lord Mahavishnu, Ganapathi, Muruga, Darma Sastha, and Brahmmarakshas, Serpent Gods, and Mother Bhagavati Amman. Besides being a spiritual center, the place is famous for the gorgeous wall paintings and exquisitely crafted sculptures. Visit the Mahadeva temple, one of the most holy  tourist places in Guruvayur . Shivratri and Thiruvathira are celebrated with zeal and excitement at the temple and it is the ideal time to visit the place. Location -  Mammiyur Devaswom, Guruvayur Timings -  4 AM to 12.30 PM and from 4.45 PM to 8 PM. Entry fees - no entry fee

Best of Thekkady

Statues of Maraprabhu and Guruyaur Kesavan

In the complex of Sree Valsam guest house, there stand the magnificent and towering statues of Mahaprabhu and Guruyaur Kesavan. The place is one of the most popular tourist places in Guruvayaur because of the presence of these statues. The Mahaprabhu statue is a creative representation of Lord Krishna in the form of a giant banyan tree. The interpretation arises from traditional folk stories and tales. The statue of Guruvayur Kesavan is dedicated to the deceased Elephant King, one of the most celebrated elephants in the Lord’s stables and was crowned Gajaraja several times during its life. The place is thronged by people every year to witness these pieces of art. Location - Sree Valsam Guest House Complex, South Nada, Guruvayur, Thrissur Timings - no timing restrictions Entry fees - no entry fees Click Here to Book Now:  Places To Visit In Florence

Best of Varkala

Thiru Venkatachalapathy Temple

Home to one of the most revered forms of Lord Vishnu, that is, Lord Balaji – the Thiru Venkatachalapathy Temple is one of the most serene places to visit in Guruvayur . The temple is just a kilometer away from the famous Sree Krishna temple and you can plan your trip to the two with ease. You will find calmness and serenity like never before at the complex – not to mention the breathtaking architecture of the place that attracts thousands of tourists every year. The temple bells ringing in the distance paired with the holy atmosphere make for an ideal place to return to religion and God. Location -  Thiruvenkidom,Thiruvenkidom P O, Guruvayur Timings -  All days of the week, 2:30 AM - 11:00 PM Entry fees – no entry fee You Can Also Book:  Museums In Florence

Best of Idukki

Sree Parthasarathy Temple

One of the most important places to visit in Guruvayur, the Sree Parthasarathy temple is a delight for religious enthusiasts as well as architecture aficionados. It is dedicated to the charioteer form of Lord Krishana – that is, when he accompanied Arjuna as a companion into the battle of Mahabharata. That is why, the entire temple is constructed in the form of a chariot, with an array of horses pulling the same. The entire structure is awe inspiring and is decorated with intricate and graceful images that add to the beauty of the place. Location -  Railway Station Road, Kuppaayil, Guruvayur Timings -  All days of the week 4:30 AM - 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM Entry fees - no entry fees. Also Checkout:   Rome Nightlife

Punnathur Kotta

Sprawling over an impressive 11.5 acres, the Punnathur Kotta is one of the most enjoyable places to visit in Guruvayur . The entire complex is surrounded by lush green foliage and offers an eye pleasing environment to the tourists. The place houses over 60 jumbo elephants and it is truly a delight to watch them play with each other, eat and just stroll around casually. Wildlife enthusiasts and ature lovers will have a great time here. Besides, if you are traveling with family, bring your little ones here and watch them getting awed at the elephants’ activities. The cute baby elephants splashing water at each other are truly fun to watch. Location -  Kottapadi Road, Trishul, Iringaprom, Kerala Timings - 8.30 AM to 6 PM, every day Entry fees - INR 10 per person You Can Checkout Great Discounts On:  Bali instagram Tour

Chowalloor Shiva Temple

Located just 3 kms from the most popular temple in Guruvayur, the Sri Krishna temple, the Chowalloor Shiva temple is a gorgeous complex dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. Considered as one of the most beautiful tourist places in Guruvayur , the temple is over 1000 years old and is known among locals as one of the 108 abodes of Lord Shiva. Hence it holds a special place in the hearts of Shiva devotees and followers of the Hindu religion. The temple is a must visit during 12-day festival of Shivratri when the whole complex is full of vibrant colours and the chant of holy mantras. Location - P O Kandanassery, Guruvayur, Thrissur Timings - All days of the week, 4:30 AM - 8:30 PM Entry fees - INR 5 per person Also Checkout & Book:  Sea Life Sydney Tickets

Parthasarathy Temple

The Parthasarathy Temple has an icon of Lord Krishna in the structure the charioteer of Arjuna, which is likewise called Parthasarathy. As indicated by a legend, this symbol is accepted to have been put in this sanctuary by Adi Shankaracharya. This sanctuary has another acclaimed holy place that is devoted to Adi Shankaracharya. The gigantic strongholds of the sanctuary are enhanced with different pictures. Location: Railway Station Road, Kuppaayil, Guruvayur, Kerala 680101 Timings: 4:30 AM - 12:30 PM  & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM Entry fees: No entry fees

Devaswom Museum

One of the most interesting places to visit in Guruvayur   is the Devaswom Museum, located inside the Shree Guruvayoorappan Temple complex towards the east gate. The museum is a must visit destination among cultural buffs and religious enthusiasts because of its extensive collection of gorgeous and expensive offerings that have been made to the 5000-year old deity of the temple. The collection features antiques, musical instruments, mural paintings and other valuable materials. It also includes some unusual items like elephant teeth, rifle and toys. Location - Near Guruvayur Temple, Guruvayur, Thrissur Timings - All days of the week, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Entry fees - no entry fees

Institute of Mural Paintings

Known as one of the most amazing places to visit in Guruvayur ,  the Institute of Mural paintings falls under the jurisdiction of Devaswom Museum and is located within the  s hree Guruvayoorappan Temple complex. The place is famous for the exquisite art of mural paintings and students travel from all over the world to pursue diploma courses in mural paintings, sculptures, aesthetics and art. The institute follows Gurukula system to ensure an optimum environment for students. Seminars and exhibitions can be attended by art loving tourists to gain an insight into the art of mural paintings. Location - Chumar Chithra Padana Kendram East Nada, Guruvayur, Thrissur Timings - 8 AM to 8 PM, every day. Entry fees - no entry fees.

Harikanyaka Temple

The sanctuary is in Ariyanoor, a neighbouring town of Guruvayur. This structure is maintained by the Archeological Survey of India. The sanctuary is committed to Harikanyaka, a form of Lord Vishnu. This old sanctuary was worked by Perumthachan and brags of a rich history. Actually, the spot Ariyanoor was viewed as the leader of the 32 deshams. The temple draws various devotees and celebrates a 15-day celebration amid the long stretch of March to April, every year. Location:  Ariyannur,  Kerala 680504 Timings:  5:30 AM - 9:30 AM & 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Entry fees: No entry fees.

Thrissur Top Attractions

An ancient temple of Kerala, the Vadakkunnathan Temple is also the oldest temple of the state dedicated to Lord Shiva. Following the architectural style of Kerala, the temple has monumental towers surrounding it.Talking about the inside of the temple, there are several mural paintings that depict various episodes from the Hindu Epic, Mahabharata.Thekkinkadu Maidan, which surrounds the temple from all sides is where the local festival of Thrissur Pooram is organized every year, granting this place an even more of spiritual importance.Location: 2.4 km from Thrissur bus stand.Timings: Every day, from 3 AM to 8:30 PM.Entry fees: None.Must Check: Kerala Tour Packages From Mumbai

The Dolours Basilica, or the Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours (as the full name goes), is a distinct building in the city of Thrissur. You can easily recognize this grand church from its white facade.Smack in the middle of a lush green valley, this basilica is known for narrating quite a number of stories of love and faith. Spread in an area of about 25,000 sq feet, Dolours Basilica is the third tallest church in Asia and the largest church in the country with double storeyed aisles.Location: 1.6 km from Thrissur bus stand.Timings: Everyday, 6:00 AM onwards (mass timings may vary.Checkout & Book: Kerala Tour Package From Kolkata

Built after a rather Dutch style architecture, the Shakthan Thampuran Palace is a sight to behold. Finding its name in almost every list of Thrissur tourist places, the Shakthan Thampuran Palace was rebuilt in the place of Vadakkekara Palace in the year 1795 by the then King Ramavarma Thampuram of Cochin.In the year 2005, the palace was converted into a museum that now showcases a number of relics and really old antiques. A favourite one amongst several art admirers, the two-storeyed complex has high roofs, thicker than usual walls, and Italian Marble on the floor, making it a place right out of a traveller’s dream.Location: 2.5 km from Thrissur bus stand.Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM.Entry fees: INR 10 for adults, INR 5 for kids, INR 30 for cameras.Planning a honeymoon trip, Checkout: Kerala Honeymoon Packages

More Thrissur Attractions

Thrissur travel guides.

Popular Nearby Places Around Thrissur

More on thrissur tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!