About Guruvayoor
Guruvayoor - Dvaraka Of The South
Its pure faith transformed Guruvayoor into more than just a temple town. Guruvayoor, the abode of Lord Guruvayoorappan, is the most famous pilgrimage destination in Kerala. Thousands of devotees visit here, irrespective of months and seasons.
Popular Places In Guruvayoor
The temple enshrines Balagopalan, the child form of Lord Krishna. Lord Guruvayoorappan is one of the pretty forms of Lord Vishnu. Historical references to the temple date back to the fourteenth century.
THE GURUVAYOORAPPAN TEMPLE
Guruvayoorappan Temple, also called the Dwaraka of the South, is well known for its healing powers. This is one of the most famous and most visited temples in South India. In here, one can see people making so many varieties of offerings to the Lord. The prime deity of this temple is the child form of Lord Krishna, known as Balagopalan. Many ceremonies are conducted here, including weddings and Choroonu, a sacred ceremony of feeding the child annam (rice) for the first time. Elaborate pujas and so many other offerings are held here.
ELEPHANT CAMP, PUNNATHOOR KOTTA
The largest elephant camp in India is situated close to Thrissur in Punnathoor Kotta. The elephants are well treated in this camp. There are so many elephants in the camp, which is an ideal example of elephant love. All the elephants in the camp are offered to Guruvayur temple by the devotees of Guruvayurappan. These elephants are used to carry Guruvayur temple idols in the procession known as Shiveli.
MAMMIYOOR TEMPLE
According to common belief, Lord Siva moved to Mammiyoor Mahadeva Temple after making way to Lord Krishna. Mammiyoor Temple is located very close to Guruvayoorappan Temple. It is believed that a visit to Guruvayur will not be complete without offering prayers at Mammiyur temple.
PALAYUR CHURCH
Palayur Church, founded by Apostle St. Thomas, is an important Christian pilgrimage centre. Palayur Church is the oldest of the seven and a half churches founded by St. Thomas and the oldest church in India. Visit the Big Museum and Thaliyoorkulam Pond, close to the church.
CHAVAKKAD BEACH
The serene Chavakkad Beach is a famous tourist attraction as well as a shooting location. Located 4 km from Guruvayoor, all the pilgrims visit this long, peaceful stretch. Further up the beach is a beautiful 100-foot-high Chetwai Lighthouse. One can enjoy the panoramic view of the sea and the surroundings.