Kerala, the most tranquil destination in South India, is adorned with eminent National Parks, serene beaches, ancient temples, adorable towns and tourist attractions that are not known to all! If you are a curious soul and are all up for an impeccable vacation in a destination which is yet to be explored, then Guruvayur in Kerala is waiting to embrace you! Before setting your foot in this beautiful town, you should be aware of the spectacular places to visit in Guruvayur which will leave you in awe for sure! Not only these places have religious significance but they also play a role in luring tourists every year to this quaint town. Though Guruvayur is not crowded with tourists and is yet to be explored, it is known to many as it is said to be one of the oldest places in the country. Known as the Dwarka of South India, Guruvayur’s existence has a lot of historical value and it should be on your itinerary when you are all set to explore God’s Own Country!
12 Best Places To Visit In Guruvayur
The existence of Guruvayur can be traced back to 5000 years ago and so it is a perfect destination for all history enthusiasts. To make your vacation hassle-free, we have shortlisted some of the most famous Guruvayur tourists places which you must visit on your vacay! Take a look!
- Guruvayur Temple: The Main Temple
- Mammiyoor Temple: Popular Shiva Temple
- Elephant Camp Sanctuary: For Wildlife Lovers
- Palayur Church: One Of The Oldest Churches
- Guruvayur Devaswom Institute Of Mural Painting: For Art Lovers
- Chowalloor Siva Temple: Mesmerizing Ambiance
- Chamundeshwari Temple: An Incarnation Of Durga
- Chavakkad Beach: Delightful Retreat
- Mammiyur Mahadeva Temple: A Mandatory Visit
- Statues Of Mahaprabhu And Guruvayur Kesavan: Magnificent Structures
- Thiru Venkatachalapathy Temple: Spiritual Escape
- Sree Parthasarathy Temple: Unique Architecture
1. Guruvayur Temple: The Main Temple
Image Source Let’s start our list of the best places to visit in Guruvayur with the grand Guruvayur Temple located in Thrissur district. This temples has a very interesting story and is situated in the heart of Guruvvayur because it is believed that the whole town was built around this temple and it is one of the oldest temples in Kerala. Coming to its story, Guruvayur Temple was built in around 5000 years ago and the famous idol in the temple is of Lord Krishna. It is believed that Lord Krishna ordered two of his saints to bring his idol from the Dwarka temple in Gujurat and place it in the Guruvayur Temple. The locals have a lot of stories regarding this temple and you must visit it to know all about this mystical temple!
Location: Guruvayur Devaswom, East Nada, Guruvayur, Kerala 680101
Timings: 3:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:30 PM – 9:15 PM,
Entry Fee: Free
Dress Code:
- Men: Dhotis, Lungi
- Women: Salwar Kameez, Saree, Set Mundu, Skirts, and Blouse
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2. Mammiyoor Temple: Popular Shiva Temple
Image Source One of the 108 temples in Kerala, Mammiyoor Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is one of the most visited religious places. As soon as you will enter the Guruvayur Temple, the locals will tell you about a ritual which states that it is mandatory to visit Mammiyoor Temple if you are visiting the Guruvayur Temple. The other deities which are worshipped in the temple are Lord Ganapathi, Lord Vishnu, Lord Subrahmanya, Goddess Kali, Lord Ayyappan, and Serpent deities!
Location: Mammiyur Devaswom, Guruvayur P.O, Perumpilavil Rd, Kerala
Timings: 4 AM to 12.30 PM and from 4.45 PM to 8 PM.
Entry Fee: Free
Dress Code:
- Men: Traditional Mundu, Lungi, Shirt
- Women: Salwar Kameez, Saree, Set Mundu, Skirts, and Blouse
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3. Elephant Camp Sanctuary: For Wildlife Lovers
Image Source Considered as one of the most popular places to visit in Guruvayur, Elephant Camp Sanctuary must be on every wildlife lovers itinerary! The Elephant Camp Sanctuary is located in the famous Punnathur Kotta Campus and has around 59 elephants. Ramachandran is the oldest elephant and is 82 years old. The elephants in this sanctuary are trained for festivals and events and they are quite lively and playful. So, do visit this sanctuary to play with the young ones and click pictures with the oldest elephant in the campus.
Location: Kottapadi Road, Trishul, Iringaprom, Kerala
Timings: 9 Am – 5 Pm
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4. Palayur Church: One Of The Oldest Churches
Image Source Famed as the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, Palayur Church was built in 52 AD by St. Thomas. Located in Thrissur district, this church is believed to be one of the oldest churches in India and is also known as the Apostolic church. St. Thomas established 7 churches in India at different places like Cranganore, Kokkamangalam, Kottakkavu, Kollam, Niranam, and Chayal. Palayur Church is one of these seven churches and is of great importance to all the believers of Christianity residing in Kerala. The church looks heavenly on Christmas and you will surely be impressed by its architecture when you will visit it!
Location: Palayoor Road, Palayoor, Trichur District, Chavakkad, Kerala
Timings: 6 Am – 5:30 Pm
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5. Guruvayur Devaswom Institute Of Mural Painting: For Art Lovers
Kerala is famous for the art of mural paintings and if you are passionate about collecting artworks then you ought to visit this place on your vacation. Guruvayur Devaswom Institute of Mural Painting is one of the most fascinating places to see in Guruvayur and is located in the Guruvayoor Krishan Temple Complex. Students are trained at this center in mural paintings and are given a diploma once they complete their course. If you want to learn too, you ought to pay a visit to this institute.
Location: Palayoor Road, Palayoor, Trichur District, Chavakkad, Kerala
Timings: 6 Am – 5:30 Pm
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6. Chowalloor Siva Temple: Mesmerizing Ambiance
Image Source Spread over 4 acres of land and counted among one of the most frequented Guruvayur tourist places, Chowalloor Siva Temple will mesmerize you with its beauty. All those who are liking for places where they can attain solace and worship lord Shiva must visit this astounding temple. This temples is one of the 108 Shiva temples in Kerala and is known for the Shiva lingam placed in the main building. One of the Sanctum Sanctorum in the temple has a roof which was made of copper and the main temple speaks volumes about the architecture style followed in the ancient time!
Location: Palayoor Road, Palayoor, Trichur District, Chavakkad, Kerala
Timings: 6 Am – 5:30 Pm
Dress Code:
- Men: Dhotis, Lungi
- Women: Salwar Kameez, Saree, Set Mundu, Skirts, and Blouse
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7. Chamundeshwari Temple: An Incarnation Of Durga
Chamundeshwari Temple in Guruvayur is amongst the most visited spiritual places in the area. The temple is believed to be almost a century old and holds religious significance among the locals. It is dedicated to Chamundeshwari Devi, the fiercest incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is beautifully designed and exhibits stunning carvings on the walls and pillars. This is one of the most visited Guruvayur tourist places. Location: Inner Ring Road, North Nada, Mammiyoor, Guruvayur
Timings: 5 AM to 8 PM
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Dress Code:
- Men: Dhotis, Lungi
- Women: Salwar Kameez, Saree, Set Mundu, Skirts, and Blouse
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8. Chavakkad Beach: Delightful Retreat
For all the nature lovers holidaying in Guruvayur, Chavakkad Beach is surely a delightful retreat. It is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places to visit in Guruvayur and exhibits the confluence of river and sea. If you are looking for a romantic escape on your spiritual trip then you can surely head to a gorgeous beach.
Location: Thrissur
Timings: 6 AM to 6.30 PM
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Dress Code: NA
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9. Mammiyur Mahadeva Temple: A Mandatory Visit
According to the locals, the visit of Guruvayur temple is believed to be incomplete without visiting the Mammiyur Mahadeva Temple. This is one of the most visited Guruvayur tourist places. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the temple comprises shrines of Lord Vishnu, Muruga, Ganapathi, Brahmmarakshas, Darma Sastha, and Maa Bhagvati Amman. Apart from spiritual significance, the temple has beautiful wall paintings and artistically crafted sculptures.
Location: Mammiyur Devaswom, Guruvayur
Timings: 4 AM to 12.30 PM and 4.45 PM to 8 PM
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Dress Code:
- Men: Dhotis, Lungi
- Women: Salwar Kameez, Saree, Set Mundu, Skirts, and Blouse
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10. Statues Of Mahaprabhu And Guruvayur Kesavan: Magnificent Structures
Image Source SreeValsam guest house in Guruvayur houses to magnificent and enormous towering statues of Mahaprabhu and Guruvayur Kesavan. It is amongst the most visited tourist sites in Guruvayur as the statues lure pilgrims from across the region. The statues have been established in the memory of the deceased Elephant King. Places to visit in Guruvayur would be memorable if you are travelling to this particular place.
Location: SreeValsam Guest House Complex, South Nada, Guruvayur, Thrissur
Timings: Throughout the day
Entry Fee: NA
Dress Code:
- Men: Dhotis, Lungi
- Women: Salwar Kameez, Saree, Set Mundu, Skirts, and Blouse
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11. Thiru Venkatachalapathy Temple: Spiritual Escape
The temple is dedicated to Lord Balaji and it is one of the most peaceful places in Guruvayur. Located in proximity to the popular Sree Krishna temple, you can plan a visit to it for a spiritual escape. The temple is known for its breathtaking architecture and welcomes thousands of pilgrims every year and apart from the local shops, this is one of the most visited Guruvayur tourist places and shopping in Guruvayur for religious purpose would be great if you are travelling to this temple.
Location: Thiruvenkidom,Thiruvenkidom P O, Guruvayur
Timings: 2:30 AM-11 PM
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Dress Code:
- Men: Dhotis, Lungi
- Women: Salwar Kameez, Saree, Set Mundu, Skirts, and Blouse
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12. Sree Parthasarathy Temple: Unique Architecture
Sree Parthasarathy Temple in Guruvayur is dedicated to the charioteer for Lord Krishna who accompanied Arjuna in the battle of Mahabharata. The temple has been constructed in the form of chariot, having numerous horses pulling it. This is one of the best places to visit in Guruvayur. Location: Railway Station Road, Kuppaayil, Guruvayur
Timings: 4:30 AM-12:30 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Dress Code:
- Men: Dhotis, Lungi
- Women: Salwar Kameez, Saree, Set Mundu, Skirts, and Blouse
Best Time To Visit In Guruvayur
Guruvayur is indeed a mesmerizing place which deserves a visit and the best season to visit is the winter season which lasts from October to February. In the winter season the weather is pleasing and enjoyable. Guruvayur is a place which does not experience cold winters, weather is pleasant at that time of the year. Winter season is the best time when you can explore and discover beautiful places in Guruvayur and the places to see in Guruvayur would be memorable if you are travelling these spots in Guruvayur.
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The historical town of Guruvayur is believed to be 5000 years old and these enchanting places to visit in Guruvayur should be on every travelers list who is thinking about exploring the town known as the Dwarka of South India. After exploring the major temples and playing with the elephants, you should head to one of the popular restaurants and enjoy a traditional meal which is specially prepared with the right spices and love! Are you ready to get entranced by the ancient town in Kerala? If yes, then get packed, plan your vacation in Kerala and leave right away with your polaroids to make memories and to attain peace on your much-awaited holiday!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Guruvayur
Is there any special darshan in Guruvayur?
Yes, you can buy tickets to darshan. Devotees offering INR 1000 worth 'Neyvilakku' at Guruvayur Temple get access to the special darshan and the same for 5 persons can be availed with INR 4500 worth 'Neyvilakku'. What are the best places to visit in Guruvayur?
The following are the best places to visit in Guruvayur: Guruvayur Temple, Mammiyoor Temple, Elephant Camp Sanctuary, Palayur Church, Guruvayur Devaswom Institute of Mural Painting, Chowalloor Siva Temple, Chamundeshwari Temple, Chavakkad Beach, Mammiyur Mahadeva Temple, Statues of Mahaprabhu and Guruvayur Kesavan, Thiru Venkatachalapathy Temple, Sree Parthasarathy Temple, etc. Is it safe to visit Guruvayur during Covid times?
You need to follow all the mandatory safety guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Remain masked while stepping out and maintain social distance. Avoid visiting crowded places and keep sanitizing your hands after touching surfaces. What is special in Guruvayur?
A small town in Kerala, Guruvaroor is a famous pilgrimage spot for Hindus across the globe. Each year a number of devotees come to visit the highly revered Guruvayoor temple. Due to its reverence, the place is also known as ‘Dakshina Dwaraka’ which basically translates to Dwaraka of the South. What is famous in Guruvayur Temple?
Guruvayur temple is one of the most important places of worship for Hindus. The earliest records of the temple date back to the 17th century and its existence has been mentioned in epics as well. The temple is often referred to as ‘Bhuloka Vaikunta’ which means ‘Holy abode of Vishnu on Earth’. Which God is in Guruvayur Temple?
Guruvayur temple in Thrissur, Kerala is a ‘Lord Krishna’ temple. The presiding deity is the god Guruvayurappan which is the four-armed affiliation of the Hindu God Vishnu. How do I get to Guruvayoor Temple?
You can reach Guruvayur by bus, train or by air. The nearest railway station from Guruvayur is 30 km away, in Thrissur. Cochin & Calicut International airports are 80 km away from Guruvayur. Regular bus and taxi services are available from the airports and railway stations. Is there any dress code for Guruvayur Temple?
Guruvayur has an age-old and strict dress code to enter the temple premises. Men are to wear Kerala’s traditional ‘Mundu’ which is basically a piece of garment that is worn around the waist. For the upper body men can carry a shawl or ‘Vashti but shirts or t-shirts are not allowed. Boys can wear shorts if not Mundu but they also cannot wear shirts. Women are to wear sarees and dresses, skirts, and trousers are prohibited. Girls can wear long skirts and blouses and gowns. Are mobile phones allowed in Guruvayur Temple?
Mobile phones or any other electronic devices are not allowed inside the temple premises of Guruvayur temple. Are you allowed to wear pants in Guruvayur Temple?
No, pants or trousers are not allowed for men or women to wear inside the premises of Guruvayur temple. Is Churidar allowed in Guruvayur Temple?
In an attempt to reform the age-old rules, Guruvayur temple has since 2007 started to allow women wearing Churidar or salwar kameez to enter the temple for worship.
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