Sri Krishna Temple - Guruvayur
Guruvayur Temple is one of the most famous religious destinations of South India and is a very sacred place especially for Vaisnavites. This temple is located in Thrissur district in Kerala. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and thousands of devotees visit this temple to offer prayers every day. In terms of visitors per day this temple is the fourth biggest temple in India. It is believed to be around 5000 years old and same goes with its main idol as well.
Guruvayur Temple is also known as "Bhooloka Vaikuntham" which means "Abode of Lord Vishnu on Earth". The temple got its name from a Hindu mythological story in which Lord Brahaspati found a Statue of Lord Vishnu and he installed it at this place with the help of Vayu Dev – The God of Wind. The name Guruvayoor is derived from the words "Guru" (mentor), "Vayu" (air) and "Oor" (land) so Guruvayur means "The Mentor God of the Wind and the Land".
The sanctum sanctorum, locally known as Sreekovil is a two layered design which has copper roofing that is plated with gold. The Mahavishnu form enshrined here is carrying Shankha, Chakra, Gadha and Padmam. The Moolavigraha which is the most sacred idol of the temple is made of Pathalanjana Shila. Apart from this there is silver and a gold idol as well. The Vrishchika Ekadashi, which is one of the 24 Ekadashis of a year has special significance in this temple. This day is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the temple and a huge number of pilgrims visit Guruvayur Temple on this auspicious day.
How to reach
By Air - The nearest domestic airport to Guruvayoor is Kozhikode Airport which is at a distance of 130 from Guruvayoor. Kochi International Airport is at a distance of 120 km from the city.
By Train - The nearest railhead from Guruvayoor is Thrissur which is 27 Km far from the city. Thrissur is well connected to all the major railway stations in India.
By Road - You can visit Guruvayoor through state owned public buses or you can travel by private AC buses to reach there.
Best time to visit - August to February is the best time to visit Guruvayoor Temple. You can also pick the day of Ekadashi for your visit which is celebrated in a big way in the temple.
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