Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple: Abode of Lord Krishna
Opening Hours
3:00 AM - 1:30 PM, 4:30 PM - 9:15 PM (Subject to change; confirm before visiting)
Best Time To Visit
October to February (Pleasant weather)
Aarti Timing
Nirmalyam : 3:00 AM (Approximate)Usha Pooja : 7:30 AM (Approximate)
Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, located in Guruvayoor, Kerala. It is one of the most important places of worship for Hindus in South India, known for its unique traditions and rituals.
Expectations for Pilgrims
Seeking blessings from Lord Krishna (Guruvayurappan).
Participating in the various rituals and ceremonies offered at the temple.
Experiencing the vibrant atmosphere and devotional fervor.
Prasadam: Blessed Offerings from Guruvayurappan
The Prasadam at Guruvayoor is considered highly sacred and is offered to devotees as a blessing from Lord Krishna. It consists of various items blessed during the rituals.
Prasad / Prasadam :
Note : Prasadam is available for purchase at designated counters inside the temple premises.
Offerings for Devotees: Expressions of Devotion
Devotees can offer various items and services to express their devotion to Lord Krishna at Guruvayoor Temple.
Devotee's Offerings
Priests and temple staff can guide devotees on the appropriate offerings and procedures.
Essential Experiences: Immersing in the Divine Aura
Activities:
Chuttambalam Pradakshinam
Sacred Rituals & Pujas: Connecting with the Divine
Guruvayoor Temple is known for its elaborate rituals and pujas performed throughout the day. These rituals are central to the temple's spiritual atmosphere.
Attending Pujas:
Non Attending Pujas:
Bookings for specific pujas and offerings can be made in advance at the temple's administration office. It is advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak season.
Historical Roots & Profound Meaning: The Temple's Legacy
The history of Guruvayoor Temple is steeped in legends and ancient traditions. The temple has been a center of worship for centuries.
Significance: A Paramount Spiritual Beacon
Guruvayoor Temple is one of the most sacred places for Hindus, offering devotees a chance to connect with Lord Krishna and seek his blessings.
Key Aspects:
- Fulfillment of Desires It is believed that Lord Krishna at Guruvayoor has the power to fulfill the desires of his devotees and grant them prosperity and happiness.
- Healing Power The temple is known for its healing powers. Many devotees believe that offering prayers and performing rituals at Guruvayoor can cure diseases and alleviate suffering.
Opening Hours
Sunday : 3:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:15 PM Monday : 3:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:15 PM Tuesday : 3:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:15 PM Wednesday : 3:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:15 PM Thursday : 3:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:15 PM Friday : 3:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:15 PM Saturday : 3:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:15 PM
User Review
Total Reviews : 75950
- Star Rating :
Author Name : Hari 97
Review Time : a month ago
Review : The Guruvayur Sri Krishna Swami Temple is not just a temple—it is the very heartbeat of devotion in Kerala, a sanctum where faith flows as naturally as breath. Revered as Bhuloka Vaikuntha—the heaven on Earth—this ancient shrine is a radiant beacon for millions of devotees who find in Lord Guruvayurappan not just a deity, but a divine companion through life’s joys and sorrows.
The temple's architecture is a splendid tribute to Kerala’s rich heritage, with its majestic gopuram, intricately carved wooden pillars, and oil-lamp-lit sanctum. At the core lies the enchanting idol of Lord Krishna in his child form, radiating a charm so pure and profound that one can feel an indescribable sense of peace just gazing upon him. The deity, adorned with garlands, sandal paste, and tulsi leaves, embodies compassion and grace in every detail.
Every aspect of the Guruvayur temple is steeped in tradition—from the early morning Nirmalya Darshan to the mesmerizing Deeparadhana at dusk. The rhythmic beats of the Chenda Melam, the soulful Narayaneeyam recitations, and the vibrant temple festivals, especially the annual Guruvayur Utsavam, elevate the spiritual experience into a divine celebration.
Equally touching is the temple’s deep connection with its devotees—childless couples seeking blessings, elderly pilgrims finding comfort, and young believers offering their first steps to the Lord through the famous Thulabharam ritual. It is a place where prayers are whispered with tears, and hearts leave lighter, filled with hope.
Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple is more than a place of worship; it is a spiritual sanctuary that embraces every soul that walks through its gates. A visit here is not merely a journey of the body, but a soulful pilgrimage—one that leaves the spirit glowing with devotion, humility, and divine love. - Star Rating :
Author Name : anushka prakash
Review Time : 3 weeks ago
Review : The Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, located in the town of Guruvayur in Kerala, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple is a spiritual sanctuary for millions of devotees who visit to seek blessings and experience divine tranquility. The temple's history dates back centuries, and its architecture reflects traditional Kerala-style temple design, with ornate wooden carvings and beautiful murals that enhance its sacred ambiance. - Star Rating :
Author Name : Rajesh Kochukrishnan Nair
Review Time : 2 weeks ago
Review : Guruvayur Temple is one of the most famous and sacred Hindu temples in Kerala, India. It is often referred to as the "Dwarka of the South" because of its immense religious significance and popularity.
🛕 Basic Information:
Location: Guruvayur, Thrissur district, Kerala
Main Deity: Lord Guruvayurappan (a form of Lord Krishna / Vishnu)
Temple Timings: Usually from around 3:00 AM to 9:00 PM (varies by rituals)
Dress Code: Strict traditional attire (men must wear mundu; women should wear saree/salwar or traditional dress)
Photography: Not allowed inside temple premises
📜 Legend & History:
The idol of Lord Guruvayurappan is said to be over 5,000 years old and was installed by Guru (Brihaspati) and Vayu (Wind God), hence the name Guruvayur.
The temple survived invasions and natural disasters, and is known for its powerful idol and miraculous events, especially involving devotees' faith.
✨ Temple Features:
Sreekovil (Sanctum Sanctorum): Where the deity is enshrined. The idol is made of a special stone called "Patalanjana Sila".
Thulabharam Offering: Devotees offer items like bananas, sugar, or even gold equal to their body weight.
Elephant Sanctuary (Punnathur Kotta): About 3 km away, this is where temple elephants are kept and cared for.
Chembai Sangeetholsavam: A famous music festival held annually in memory of classical singer Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavatar.
🙏 Important Rituals:
Nirmalyam: Early morning ritual when the deity is seen with previous night’s flowers.
Udayasthamana Pooja: Rituals from sunrise to sunset.
Krishna Janmashtami & Ekadashi: Major festivals celebrated with grandeur.
👨👩👧👦 Devotee Information:
Entry is restricted to Hindus only.
Large crowds during festival seasons, especially during Guruvayur Ekadashi, Vishu, and Ashtami Rohini.
The temple provides prasadams, annadanam (free meals), and lodging nearby.
🛣️ How to Reach Guruvayur Temple:
🚆 By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: Guruvayur Railway Station (GUV) – about 500 meters from the temple.
Major trains: Thrissur – Guruvayur passenger, Ernakulam – Guruvayur passenger.
If coming from far, take a train to Thrissur (TCR), then a local train or taxi to Guruvayur (29 km).
🚌 By Bus:
Kerala State RTC and private buses run frequently from major towns (Thrissur, Kochi, Palakkad).
Guruvayur Bus Stand is just 300 meters from the temple.
✈️ By Air:
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK) – around 80 km away.
From airport, taxi/cab service available to Guruvayur (2 to 2.5 hours drive).
🏨 Stay Options Near Guruvayur Temple:
🔹 Temple Devaswom Lodges:
Affordable and clean.
Must be booked early, especially during festivals.
🔹 Mid-range Hotels:
Sopanam Heritage, Srivar Hotels, Krishna Inn, Devaragam, Sterling Guruvayur
Prices: ₹1000 – ₹3000/night
🔹 Budget Guesthouses / Homestays:
Many within 500m walking distance.
Example: Soorya Madhavam Apartment (I styed at this Apartment and also liked it)
> Tip: Book accommodation close to the East Nada (main entrance) for convenience.
🕒 Daily Pooja Schedule at Guruvayur Temple (Approximate):
Time Pooja / Ritual
3:00 AM Nada Thurakkal (Temple Opening)
3:15 AM – 4:15 AM Nirmalyam, Oil Abhishekam
4:30 AM – 6:00 AM Usha Pooja
7:00 AM – 9:00 AM Ethirettu Pooja
9:30 AM – 11:00 AM Pantheeradi Pooja
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Ucha Pooja
12:30 PM – 4:30 PM Temple closed for Darshan
4:30 PM Nada Thurakkal (Evening Opening)
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM Deeparadhana
7:30 PM – 8:30 PM Athazha Pooja
9:00 PM Temple Closes (Thrippuka & Sreeveli)
> 🎯 Tip: Visit early morning (3:30–6:30 AM) or evening (4:30–7:30 PM) for less crowd. - Star Rating :
Author Name : Arya Nambiar
Review Time : 2 months ago
Review : Visited Guruvayoor Temple recently and it was a calm, meaningful experience. The place has a strong spiritual vibe and a sense of tradition that’s really grounding. It does get crowded, especially during early mornings or festivals, but the flow is generally smooth and well-managed.
Some things to keep in mind:
- There’s a dress code, so it's good to be aware before going. If you don't have the right clothes, no worries—you can easily buy temple-appropriate attire from shops nearby.
- Phones and cameras aren’t allowed inside, so best to leave them safely packed away.
- Darshan can take time depending on the day and crowd, so just be prepared and patient.
There are plenty of budget-friendly hotels and lodges nearby, most within walking distance. Food around the area is simple, vegetarian, and easy to find. Definitely try the temple payasam if you get the chance—it’s a favorite.
Overall, it's a peaceful place that offers a break from the usual rush. Worth a visit if you're in the area and want to experience something traditional and spiritual. - Star Rating :
Author Name : Anagha Anil Kumar
Review Time : 2 months ago
Review : Guruvayoor Temple is one of the most sacred and popular Hindu temples in Kerala, dedicated to Lord Krishna, also known as Guruvayoorappan. Known as the "Dwarka of the South," the temple is famous for its beautiful rituals, daily poojas, and vibrant festivals like Guruvayoor Ekadasi. Devotees from all over India visit the temple to seek blessings, especially for marriage and child blessings. The temple maintains a strict dress code and offers a serene spiritual atmosphere. Photography is not allowed inside, preserving the sanctity of the space.