HOME DESTINATIONS Guruvayur
Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple
Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple - the sacred abode of Lord Vishnu, that holds great significance for Hindu devotees.
Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple – the sacred abode of Lord Vishnu, that holds great significance for Hindu devotees. Located 25 km away from the hustle and bustle of the Thrissur city, Guruvayur is popular as the ‘Dwarka of the South’. The legend has it that the temple was established by the Teacher of Gods Brihaspati (Guru) and the Lord of the Wind (Vayu) to worship Sri Krishna when Dwarka drowned in a flood.
Interestingly, the idol of the deity made of ‘Patala Anjanam’ stone (black bismuth) is in the form of Lord Vishnu. Standing with 4 arms holding the Panchajanya conch, the Sudarshana Chakra, the Padma (lotus) and the Koumodaki (mace), the deity is adorned with ear ornaments, garlands, Kasthuri Tilakam and a red Pattukonam (loincloth). This attire is in reminiscence of Krishna’s playful childhood days in Gokulam. Legend has it that during the birth of Krishna, Vishnu revealed his full avatar to Devaki and Vasudeva.
Built-in the typical Kerala architecture style, the temple follows the Kerala Vastuvidya. The Gopuram evokes a feeling of harmony, warmth and belongingness and the side walls exhibit rich mural arts. The temple is built such that on the day of ‘Vishu’, the Kerala New Year, the sun’s rays caress the feet of the deity – Guruvayoorappan.
Ideal for new beginnings, a lot of devotees come to this sacred shrine for Choroonu (first solid meal of a baby), Vidyaarambham (initiation of a child’s learning), birthdays and weddings. It’s considered auspicious to offer a Chuttu Vilakku (lighting of oil lamps around the shrine) or Thulabharam (where a person is weighed against a commodity which is then donated to the temple) to the deity here.
The most beautiful time to visit the temple is 3.00 am in the morning during the Nirmalya puja and Vakachaarthu puja or during the Seeveli at 5.00 pm where caparisoned tuskers elegantly march carrying the idol of Lord Krishna. On special days, a colourful traditional dance-drama on Krishna’s life called the Krishnanattam is performed inside the temple to entertain the devotees.
Palpayasam, butter, sugar and Kadhalippazham (a type of banana) are the popular Prasadhams of this temple. The sandalwood paste (Kalabham) offered to the devotees from Guruvayur is ground by hand and has fresh saffron in it. One must be dressed in ethnic wear (saree/davani/skirt for women and mundu/veshtti for men) to enter the temple.
This historic temple is held together not just by its beautiful architecture, but also by ancient lores, legends, unique rituals and traditions that’ll surprise and inspire any traveller who’s embarking on a spiritual sojourn.
Other Attractions
Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary
1hrsA pachyderm’s paradise, this place will remind you that elephants are a jumbo deal for Malayalis.
Chavakkad Beach: Pristine beach and privacy? Yes, please!
1hrsOne of the picturesque beaches in God's own country, Chavakkad beach, is perfect to bask in the sun's beauty by the Arabian sea. Sterling Guruvayoor arranges vehicles and guided trips to the beach where guests can shop, have a picnic, or even enjoy local cuisine while listening to the waves' pleasant sound. The year-round activity can be booked in advance for a minimum of two people.
Cheraman Juma Masjid
1hrsDiscover India’s first mosque
Devaswom Museum: Want to travel back in time? / Catch a glimpse of the bygone era
1hrsTake a break from Kerala's picturesque beauty to marvel at the collection of historical artifacts at the Devaswom museum. Open for visitors all year round, the museum has preserved valuable antique items gifted to the Guruvayoor temple, some for more than 5000 years! A short drive from Sterling Guruvayoor takes you to explore Kerala's culture, with an opportunity to shop souvenirs from the local shops.
Anakotta Elephant Sanctuary: Hang out with grey, ‘tusked’ friends
1hrsTrue to the name,' land of elephants' houses one of the world's largest elephant sanctuaries. Drive for less than 5 minutes from Sterling Guruvayoor to experience the beauty of one of the heaviest animals on land. The lush green landscape, live elephant packs, makes Anakotta a perfect tourist spot for children and families. At Rs.250/person, we recommend this experience to guests looking for a relaxing day with mother nature.
Harikanyaka Temple: Witness the reign of Lord Vishnu in Ariyannur
1hrsKerala has many historic significance. One of the most famous temples in the Guruvayur region besides the Guruvayur temple is the Harikanyaka temple. Maintained by the Indian Archaeological Department, the temple is known for its architectural carvings. Available at Rs. 300/person, a quick 15-minute drive from Sterling Guruvayur takes you to the land of deities and stories of Lord Vishnu.
Kalluthipara Temple
1hrsAn emerging beauty from ruins
Kudakkallu Parambu: Discover the enigmas of Kerala
1hrsProtected by UNESCO, Kudakkallu is an ancient burial ground that houses 69 'umbrella stones' stacked over the graves of the wealthy buried in earthen urns. Sterling Guruvayoor encourages guests to visit this historical tourist spot to marvel at the bygone era's traditions. This year-round activity is available at Rs.350/person for a minimum of 2 people looking to explore the hidden treasures of Kerala.
Mammiyoor Shiva Temple: Tales from Amar Chitra Katha do come to life
1hrsA visit to Guruvayur is incomplete without a trip to Mammiyoor. A 3-minute walk from the resort leads you to The Mammiyoor Shiva temple. Marveled at beautiful paintings and rich history, Sterling Guruvayur encourages our Hindu guests to visit the temple to soak in the beauty of the architecture and the various poojas performed during the day. Mammiyoor Shiva temple is part of Kerala's 108 Shiva temples.
Muniyara
1hrsArchaeology meets mystery
The Institute of Mural Painting: History, art, and culture for one and all
1hrsFamous for intricate detailing along the walls of prehistoric temples, Kerala is also known for its renowned mural painting institute. Situated at less than a kilometer from Sterling Guruvayoor, The Institue of Mural Painting allows the visitors to explore the various dimensions of the artform through seminars, exhibitions, and training programs. For Rs. 200/person, take a companion with you to admire the sheer brilliance of these mural artists.
Palayoor Church: World’s oldest church - is that right?
1hrsPalayoor church is known for many things - architectural grandeur, Renaissance-style planning, historical significance, and more. According to history, the church was established in 52AD by Saint Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. Over time, the church faced many hardships but continues its reign as one of the country's oldest churches. Sterling Guruvayur arranges a trip to the Palayoor Church at Rs. 250/person.
Vadakkunnathan Temple
1hrsRediscover episodes from the Mahabharata
Vallabhatta Kalari
1hrsDiscover an ancient martial art