Poornathrayeesa Temple is a Hindu temple in Tripunithura, Kochi — the capital of the former Kingdom of Cochin, Kerala, India. Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple is one of the most prominent temples in Kerala and was foremost among the eight royal temples of Cochin. The deity enshrined here is Vishnu as Santhanagopala Murthy or Poornathrayeesa— the national deity of Cochin and guardian protector of Tripunithura known for his love for elephants. More than 40 elephants participate in Vrishchikotsavam, which belongs to him.
Visit the Renowned Poornathrayeesa Temple
The Poornathrayeesa Temple is renowned for its annual festivals (utsavams), the main one being Vrishchikoltsawam, held annually in the month of Vrishchikam (November–December). This marks the beginning of the Ulsava season in Kerala—an eight-day extravaganza known for its pomp and cultural programs like Kathakali, Melam, and music concerts.
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Poornathrayeesa Temple History
Once upon a time in old age, when all was magic and the stories of sages and kings were one, there was a learned Brahmana and his wife enchanted by the gods. The wife, her body hollowed, gave birth to a crystal egg, and the brahmana quickly cried that the king had to pay for the mishap.
In those days, the king’s first duty was the well-being of his people, and any mishap concerning the learned soon led to the king’s downfall. Even as he protested his innocence, a second hollow figure was born of the Brahmin’s wife, and with a bitter heart, the learned accused the king of neglect a second time. Nine times, the king was accused by that learned man, and nine times, the children of the god’s people were born hollow and perished.
Introducing Arjuna, the great hero from the Mahabharata who promised to protect the next child after learning about the plight of a Brahmin. However, despite trying his best and even using his magical powers, he could not save them from dying again. As you step into the temple complex, you are enveloped in an aura of tranquillity and devotion. The air is heavy with the scent of incense, and the rhythmic chants of ancient hymns fill your ears, guiding you towards the heart of the temple.
Best Places to Visit Near Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple
1. Hill Palace Museum
The Hill Palace Museum is a stone’s throw away from Poornathrayeesa Temple. It represents Kerala’s regal past. With a history dating back centuries, this architectural marvel boasts an extensive collection of artefacts, antiques, and paintings that glimpse the opulent lifestyle of the Maharajas of Kochi. Take a dip in the magnificence of Kerala’s royal heritage as you walk through the complex. The intricate craftsmanship and grandeur of the displayed exhibits are sure to amaze you.
Location: The Hill Palace Museum is accessible by road, just 2.5 kilometres from Poornathrayeesa Temple in Tripunithura.
How to Reach: Visitors can reach the museum via a taxi or auto-rickshaw ride from the temple.
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2. Chottanikkara Temple
The sacred Chottanikkara Temple is just 8 kilometres from Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, it is a revered Hindu temple. Surrounded by mesmerising landscapes and greenery, this temple draws devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace from far and wide. You can experience elaborate ceremonies and rituals at the temple and seek blessings from the goddess known for her healing powers.
Location: Situated approximately 8 kilometres from Poornathrayeesa Temple.
How to Reach: Chottanikkara Temple can be reached by local buses or taxi services available in Tripunithura.
Poornathrayeesa Temple Darshan Timings
At the esteemed and respected Poornathrayeesa Temple Tripunithura, the day begins in the embrace of predawn darkness, where the first rays of light proclaim the commencement of the sacred rituals. With the Palliunarthal ceremony at 03:45 a.m., devotees awaken to the temple’s spiritual awakening, and the Poornathrayeesa temple darshan timings begin. As the clock strikes 4:00 a.m., the temple doors swing open, inviting seekers of solace and blessings.
The Ushapooja, a morning ritual at 5:00 am, sets the tone for the day, followed by the Kalabhabhishekam from 6:00 am to 6:30 am, infusing the sanctum with divine grace. The morning unfolds with reverence, as rituals like the Ethrithapooja at 6:30 am and the Sheeveli at 6:45 am carry forth the tradition. The Pantheeradi pooja at 7:30 am marks a pivotal moment of devotion before the temple briefly closes its doors.
As the sun climbs high in the sky, the temple reawakens in the afternoon, welcoming devotees once more at 4:00 pm. The day culminates in a symphony of devotion as the Deeparadhana at 6:30 pm illuminates the sacred space with flickering flames. The Athazha Pooja at 7:30 pm draws worshippers into a final act of reverence, leading to the Athazhasheeveli at 8:00 pm, which puts a stop on Poornathrayeesa Temple darshan timings for the day, a ceremonial procession steeped in tradition and spirituality. With each passing hour, Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple Tripunithura offers devotees a sanctuary of peace and solace, inviting them to partake in the timeless rhythms of divine worship.
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The sacred Poornathrayeesa Temple was established as a testament to divine intervention and the enduring faith of devotees. Today, this temple is a beacon of spirituality and heritage, inviting pilgrims from far and wide to experience its divine presence and rich history. Book a trip to Kochi with your family to explore the legacy and spiritual essence of Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple Tripunithura.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Poornathrayeesa Temple
What is the architecture of Poornathrayeesa Temple, located in Tripunithura?
Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple Tripunithura was built in a Kerala style architecture using copper plates, wood panels, and granite tiles. It is considered to be one of the greatest temples in Kerala.
What is the Poornathrayeesa Temple's history?
The Poornathrayeesa idol was offered to Arjuna by Lord Vishnu and hence the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped in the form of Santhanagopala Murthy. Santhanagopala Murthy means the ‘saviour of infants.
What does the name ‘Poornathrayeesa’ mean?
The name Poornathrayeesa is defined as follows, “thra” means three; 'poorna' means complete and 'isa' means Iswara which means the Lord of Knowledge, or the Lord of the Three Vedas – Rik, Yajus and Sama.
What should I wear when visiting Poornathrayeesa Temple?
The suitable dress code for men is a shirt and trousers, dhoti, or a pyjama with an upper. The dress code for women is a saree or kurta with pyjamas. Clothes such as shorts, minis, skirts, and short-length tee shirts and pants are not allowed.
Where is Poornathrayeesa Temple located and when should I visit?
Poornathrayeesa Temple is located in Kottakakom, Thrippunithura, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala and the best time to visit Poornathrayeesa Temple is during Thulam festival when Camphor and lights are lit throughout the temple memory of fire.
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