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Guruvayur Temple Kerala

Guruvayur temple in Kerala is often referred to as Bhuloka Vaikunta, the Holy Abode of Lord Vishnu on Earth. The temple is dedicated to Lord Guruvayurappan. The central vigraha (image) is a four-armed standing Vishnu carrying the conch Panchajanya, the discus Sudarshana, the mace Kaumodaki, and a lotus with a tulasi garland. The idol is adorned with jewels and ornaments. Guruvayur Sree Krishna temple is one of the most revered and popular Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and is known for its rich cultural heritage, religious significance, and architectural beauty.

Guruvayur temple Kerala is located in Guruvayur Town of Thrissur District of Kerala, which is 25 kms away from the Thrissur Railway station.

Guruvayur temple has been a significant site of devotion for centuries, and its current central shrine was rebuilt in 1638 CE. According to legends, the shrine of Lord Vishnu was worshipped by Mahavishnu himself in Vaikunta and later after several years it came to Lord Krishna's hand. He had worshipped it in his palace Dwaraka, and after his death it was taken by the sea in the flood. It was floating in the sea, and as per Lord Krishna's prior instruction, it was saved from the sea by his cousin Udhav. He took it to Bruhuspathi (preceptor of Gods) and with Vayu (God of winds) and a temple was built in Guruvayur as per Lord Shiva's advice. Today Guruvayur is a thriving township in the southern part of India, its scenic beauty and serenity are breath taking.

The eastern nada is the main entrance. The outer enclosure of the temple called Chuttambalam has a height of 33.5 m and the gold plated flag-post is called Dwajasthambam. There is also a pillar of lamps called Deepashambam (7 meter). The thirteen circular receptacles provide a truly gorgeous spectacle when lit. The sacred sanctum sanctorum of the temple is called Sreekovil where the deity is housed. The walls are adorned with traditional mural paintings depicting scenes from the epics.

The temple has a pond called Rudratheertham, on the northern side of the temple. It is believed that Lord Shiva, also known by the name Rudra, used to bathe in the southern bank of this pond, and since then it is known as Rudratheertham.

The idol is made of an extremely sacred stone known as Patala Anjana. Guruvayurappan is worshipped here as Balakrishna, the full avatar (Purnaavatara) of Mahavishnu. His eyes stream forth the milk of compassion and kindness.

The temple is always flooded with devotees because of their strong faith in the deity. They see him as their own. Some see him as a trustworthy fiend, for some he is own child and call as Kannan, for some he is a brother, for some others he is a lover etc. It is believed that whatever form you give him he will bless you in the same form. Adorned with the holy tulasi (Basil) garland, and pearl necklace, Guruvayurappan appears in all radiance to bless the devotees. He showers his blessings on his devotees with the glorious vision of His various charming forms. There are hundreds of life experiences of his devotees shared in various places.

Getting married in the temple kalyana mandapa, the first rice feed of a baby called choroonnu, which is usually in the 6th month, and Thulabharam are some of the major offerings done here. There is a big brass vessel filled with red manjadi seeds/kunnikuru which is usually used by small children for their welfare.

The temple has an auditorium where Krishnattam, Dances, Kathakali etc are played every night.

Dress code: The temple authorities follow strict dress code for both men and women. Women are allowed to wear sari and salwar kameez (churidar pyjamas). Men are required to remove their shirts and are allowed to cover the chest region with a small piece of cloth (veshtti). They are not allowed to wear pant, instead they can use mundu.

Mobile and camera are not allowed inside, and photography is also not allowed inside.

Devotees often wait here for hours together in a general queue to have the darshan of their favourite God which will be usually for a few seconds only. For senior citizens, they need not wait this long. There is a special line and entrance for them, both in the morning and in the evening.

Morning Timings: 5:30 AM to 8:00 AM
Evening Timings: 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM

Entry is free, but ID proof needs to be shown for age verification.

Another easy way to have darshan is booking ghee lamp darshan, costing Rs,1000/- per person.

Timings -

The temple opens at 3 a.m. The first darshan is called Nirmalya Darshan, from 3 a,m to 3.10 a.m. only, which is very famous.

3.10 to 3.45 a,m- Vakacharthu.

3.45 to 4.10 a.m. Alankaram

4.30 to 4.50 a.m. Usha Naivedhyam

4.50 to 6.15 a.m. Darshanam and Ushapooja

6.15a.m. to 7.15 a.m. Seeveli on the elephant

7.15 a.m. to 9.00 a.m. - Palabhishekam, Pantheeradi, Nivedhyam.

9.00 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. Darshanam

11.30 a,m to 12.30 p.m - Nivedhyam, Ucha pooja

1.00 - 4.30 p.m. - Nada closes and opens at 4.30 p.m.

4.30 to 6.15 p.m. - Seeveli, Darshanam

6.15 p.m to 6.45 p.m. Deeparadhana

6.45 p.m to 8.15 p.m. - Darsanam, Athazhapooja

8.30 to 9 p,m. - Athazha Seeveli

9.15 p.m. - Nada closes

Online bookings are also available at the Devaswom website for various services such as accommodation, pujas, prasadams, darshan, marriage booking etc.