Guruvayur is a pilgrimage town in the southwest Indian state of Kerala. It’s known for centuries-old, red-roofed Guruvayur Temple, where Hindu devotees make offerings of fruit, spices, or coins, often equivalent to their own weight. Nearby, Mammiyur Mahadeva Temple contains shrines to the deities Vishnu and Shiva. South of town, St. Thomas Church is believed to have been established by the apostle St. Thomas in 52 AD.
Guruvayur – places to visit in Guruvayur
Guruvayur Temple
Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Guruvayurappan, located in the town of Guruvayur, Kerala.
Mammiyoor Temple
Mammiyoor Mahadeva Temple, located in Guruvayur, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees visiting the Guruvayur Temple are also expected to visit Mammiyoor Temple as part of their ritual.
Punnathurkotta Elephant Palace
Once a palace of a local ruler, Punnathurkotta now houses elephants belonging to the Guruvayur temple. The place, known as Anakkotta, is home to around 59 elephants, many of which were offered as rituals by devotees.
Institute of Mural Painting
The Institute of Mural Painting near Guruvayur Temple is where the unique Guruvayur-style murals are taught. Students undergo a five-year residential course to study this traditional form of art.
Statues of Maraprabhu & Guruvayur Kesavan
In the gardens of the Sree Valsam guest house complex, two large statues stand: one of Guruvayur Kesavan, a famous elephant, and another of Mara-Prabhu, which depicts Lord Krishna as the trunk of a banyan tree.
Statue of Garuda
A giant statue of Garuda, the celestial eagle of Lord Vishnu, is a well-known landmark at the entrance of the Guruvayur Temple.
Parthasarthy Temple
This traditional Hindu temple is famous for its festive celebrations, including parades with decorated elephants.
Chamundeswari Temple
Located atop Chamundi Hills, this temple is reached by climbing 1,000 steps. It is known for its intricate carvings and views of the surrounding area.
Thiru Venkatachalapathy Temple
This temple in Thiruvenkidom is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, the same deity worshipped at the renowned Tirumala Temple in Andhra Pradesh.
Harikanyaka Temple
Built in the early 14th century, Harikanyaka Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy and is considered one of the ancient Maha Kshethrams.
Vallabhatta Kalari
Kalaripayattu is an ancient martial art of Kerala with its unique techniques and style, influenced by Kerala’s cultural, geographical, and historical background.
Best Time to Visit Guruvayoor
The ideal time to visit Guruvayoor is from December to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Summer (March to May) is not the best time to visit as temperatures rise and the weather becomes hot and humid. However, if you prefer fewer crowds at the temple, summer might be an option.
Monsoon (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, making it challenging to explore the city, and the humid weather results in fewer tourists during this season.
For the best experience and to attend famous festivals, winter is the best time to visit.
