The Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple in Thrissur district is one of the most important pilgrimage centres in Kerala, often called the “Dwarka of the South”. The deity, Guruvayurappan, is a form of Lord Vishnu worshipped as the child Krishna.
Significance
According to tradition, the idol was installed by Guru (Brihaspati) and Vayu (the wind god) — which gives the town its name. The temple is known for its strict observance of traditional rituals and its many daily ceremonies, including weddings, the Choroonu rice-feeding ceremony for infants and Thulabharam, where devotees offer goods equal to their body weight.
The festivals of Ekadasi and the annual Utsavam are especially celebrated, and the temple’s elephants are cared for at Punnathur Kotta.
Visiting
Guruvayur is a comfortable trip from Coimbatore. See our Guruvayur pilgrimage tour.
