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Anakotta Elephant Sanctuary: Hang out with grey, ‘tusked’ friends
True 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.
Kerala, often referred to as 'Land of elephants,' is the home to one of the world's largest elephant sanctuaries. Retaining the former residence of Punnathur raja, Punnathurkotta was a palace that is now renamed Anakotta, meaning 'Elephant Fort.' The sanctuary once was the home for the legendary elephant 'Guruvayur Kesavan.' Spread across 11.5 acres of coconut grove, the sanctuary houses close to 60 elephants who can be seen enjoying the land and training for poojas at Guruvayoor temple. Guests are welcome to participate in different rituals like Gaja pooja, which is about worshipping elephants, and Anayoottu, where the elephants are fed as an offering to Lord Ganesha.
Anakotta is located at a walking distance of 2kms from Sterling Guruvayoor. The year-round experience is open for booking at Rs. 250/person. We recommend our guests spend an hour at the sanctuary admiring the playfulness of baby elephants. Enjoy the marvel of these four-legged creatures with your family and children.
Things to remember
Availability: All through the year
Clothing: Casual
Shoes: Allowed
Water Bottles: plastic bottles will not be allowed
Cap/Hat: Recommended
Sunglasses: Recommended
Sunscreen: Recommended
Walking Stick: Not required
Umbrella/Rain Gear: Seasonal
Booking recommended
Kindly note that the minimum required number of participants is 2.
Priced: INR 250 per person including guide and vehicle charges
Taxes extra as applicable
Other Attractions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.