Guruvayur Temple, also called Bhooloka Vaikunta (Heaven on Earth), is one of the most famous temples in Kerala, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Guruvayurappan, a form of Lord Krishna. It is believed that the idol here was worshipped by Lord Vishnu himself, making it one of the most sacred temples for Hindus. Pilgrims from all over India and abroad visit the temple to seek blessings and perform offerings. The temple is also known for its strict customs, traditions, and discipline.
The temple architecture is traditional Kerala style with beautiful murals and carvings. Inside, the sanctum holds the idol of Lord Krishna in a standing posture with four arms carrying a conch, discus, mace, and lotus. Devotees believe that offering prayers here removes obstacles and brings peace, happiness, and prosperity in life. The temple is especially crowded during festivals like Ekadasi, Vishu, and Janmashtami. Daily rituals start early in the morning and continue till late at night.
Apart from darshan, devotees can also perform various sevas and offerings such as Palpayasam, Udayasthamana Pooja, Thulabharam, and Annadanam. The temple is also famous for elephant offerings and is home to Guruvayur Devaswom Elephant Sanctuary. With its deep spiritual significance and unique traditions, Guruvayur Temple is not just a place of worship but a divine experience for every devotee.
Guruvayur Temple Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple |
| Location | Guruvayur, Thrissur District, Kerala |
| Main Deity | Lord Guruvayurappan (Lord Krishna) |
| Architecture Style | Kerala Temple Architecture |
| Famous For | Krishna Darshan, Elephant Sanctuary, Palpayasam Offering |
| Opening Hours | 3:00 AM – 10:00 PM (daily rituals in between) |
| Special Festivals | Janmashtami, Vishu, Ekadasi, Udayasthamana Pooja |
| Dress Code | Men – Mundu/Dhoti; Women – Saree, Churidar with Dupatta |
| Booking Options | Online & Offline |
| Nearby Attractions | Mammiyoor Temple, Punnathur Kotta, Chavakkad Beach |
Guruvayur Temple Timings
The temple timings are unique and follow traditional Kerala rituals. Below is a detailed table of darshan and pooja timings:
| Activity / Darshan | Timings |
|---|---|
| Nada Opening (Morning) | 3:00 AM |
| Nirmalyam | 3:00 AM – 3:30 AM |
| Oil Abhishekam | 3:20 AM – 3:30 AM |
| Usha Pooja | 3:30 AM – 4:15 AM |
| Seeveli | 4:15 AM – 4:45 AM |
| Alankaram | 7:15 AM – 7:30 AM |
| Ucha Pooja | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM |
| Temple Closed (Afternoon) | 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM |
| Nada Opening (Evening) | 4:30 PM |
| Deeparadhana | 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM |
| Athazha Pooja | 7:30 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Night Seeveli | 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Temple Closing | 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
Sevas and Darshan at Guruvayur Temple
Devotees can offer different sevas and poojas to seek blessings. Below is a table of popular offerings, timings, and prices:
| Seva / Offering | Timing | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Palpayasam | Morning / Noon | ₹200 onwards |
| Udayasthamana Pooja | Full Day Ritual | ₹6,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Thulabharam | Morning & Evening | Depends on item (sugar, banana, jaggery) |
| Nirmalyam | 3:00 AM | ₹50 |
| Annadanam | Daily | ₹500 – ₹5,000 |
| Ganapathi Homam | Early Morning | ₹150 – ₹500 |
| Deepalankaram | Evening | ₹250 |
| Elephant Feeding | Daytime | ₹100 – ₹500 |
How to Reach Guruvayur Temple
Guruvayur is well connected by road, rail, and air, making it accessible for pilgrims from all parts of India.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (80 km). From the airport, taxis and buses are available.
- By Train: Guruvayur Railway Station is just 1 km away from the temple. Major trains connect Thrissur and Guruvayur.
- By Road: KSRTC buses and private vehicles connect Guruvayur with Thrissur, Kochi, Kozhikode, and Palakkad.
- By Taxi / Auto: Local taxis and autos are easily available for temple commute.
The temple is located in the center of Guruvayur town, making it easy for devotees to walk or use autos from nearby hotels.
How to Book Darshan Tickets
Booking for Guruvayur Temple darshan and offerings can be done both online and offline.
Online Booking Steps:
- Visit the official Guruvayur Devaswom website.
- Register with your details (name, email, mobile number).
- Choose Darshan or Offering/Seva option.
- Select the date and time of visit.
- Pay online using net banking, UPI, or card.
- Download and print the ticket.
Offline Booking Steps:
- Tickets are available at counters near the temple.
- Devotees can directly book sevas by paying at the temple office.
It is recommended to book online during peak festival seasons to avoid long queues.
Nearby Attractions
Along with Guruvayur Temple, pilgrims can also explore nearby attractions:
- Mammiyoor Temple – A famous Lord Shiva temple just 1 km away.
- Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary – Home to more than 60 elephants, located 3 km away.
- Chavakkad Beach – A beautiful sunset point, 5 km from the temple.
- Institute of Mural Painting – Offers traditional Kerala mural art, located near the temple.
- Palayur Church – One of the oldest churches in India, 4 km from Guruvayur.
These places make the trip not only spiritual but also culturally enriching.
Important Instructions for Visitors
- Follow the dress code: Men must wear dhoti (no shirts allowed inside sanctum); women should wear saree or traditional dresses.
- Footwear is not allowed inside temple premises.
- Photography and mobile phones are strictly prohibited inside the temple.
- Offerings must be booked in advance to avoid rush.
- Avoid carrying leather items inside the temple.
- Pregnant women and senior citizens can take assistance at special counters.
- Temple entry is restricted for non-Hindus.
Accommodation Options near Guruvayur Temple
Many accommodations are available ranging from budget to luxury. Temple Devaswom also provides rooms.
| Accommodation Type | Price Range (Approx.) | Distance from Temple |
|---|---|---|
| Devaswom Guest Houses | ₹200 – ₹1,000 | 0.5 km |
| Budget Hotels | ₹500 – ₹1,500 | Within 1 km |
| Mid-range Hotels | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 | Within 2 km |
| Luxury Hotels | ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 | Within 2-3 km |
| Dormitory Options | ₹100 – ₹300 per bed | 1 km |
Dos and Don’ts at Guruvayur Temple
Dos
- Wear traditional dress.
- Take a holy dip before entering the temple.
- Stand in line with patience during darshan.
- Respect temple customs and staff instructions.
- Book offerings and sevas in advance.
Don’ts
- Do not wear shirts, jeans, or western outfits.
- Do not use mobile phones inside.
- Do not consume alcohol or smoke near temple premises.
- Do not bring pets inside the temple.
- Do not push or rush during darshan.
FAQs about Guruvayur Temple
Q1. What is Guruvayur Temple famous for?
A1. It is famous for Lord Krishna darshan and offerings like Palpayasam, Udayasthamana Pooja, and Thulabharam.
Q2. Is online booking available for darshan?
A2. Yes, online booking is available through the official website.
Q3. What is the dress code at the temple?
A3. Men should wear dhoti without shirt, women should wear saree or churidar with dupatta.
Q4. What is the best time to visit Guruvayur Temple?
A4. Early morning (3 AM – 6 AM) is best for peaceful darshan. Festivals like Janmashtami and Vishu are very special.
Q5. Can non-Hindus enter the temple?
A5. No, only Hindus are allowed entry into the temple.
Q6. What are the nearest transport options?
A6. The nearest airport is Cochin (80 km), railway station is Guruvayur (1 km).
Q7. Are accommodations available near the temple?
A7. Yes, Devaswom guest houses and hotels are available at different budgets.
Q8. Can we book offerings like Palpayasam online?
A8. Yes, offerings and sevas can be booked both online and offline.
Q9. Is photography allowed inside the temple?
A9. No, photography and videography are strictly prohibited.
Q10. What are the temple opening hours?
A10. The temple opens at 3 AM and closes around 10 PM with poojas in between.
1. I propose to book special dharshan (Rs. 1000/- per head ) for 6 persons as a group.
a) How many tickets I have to purchase ?
b) I presume that no ticket for two kids below 2 years old.
c) Can I offer thulabaaram for my grand children at the time of Special dharshan
d) For thulabaaram whether coins are available at the koil or I have to bring it
a) You need to purchase 6 tickets (one per adult/person above 2 years).
b) Yes, children below 2 years generally do not require a ticket.
c) Yes, Thulabaaram can be offered during Special Darshan with prior request.
d) Coins/items for Thulabaaram are usually available at the temple counter, but you may also bring your own.