Guruvayur Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, is a major pilgrimage site in Kerala. While the temple itself is the primary attraction, the surrounding area is rich with cultural, spiritual, and natural sites that are worth exploring. Here is a guide to some of the important places to visit near Guruvayur Temple, making your trip to this sacred town even more enriching.
1. Mammiyoor Temple
Just a short walk from the Guruvayur Temple, Mammiyoor Temple is another significant religious site dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that a visit to Guruvayur is incomplete without paying homage to Mammiyoor Temple. The temple’s serene ambiance and beautiful architecture make it a must-visit.
2. Punnathur Kotta (Elephant Sanctuary)
Located about 3 km from Guruvayur Temple, Punnathur Kotta is an elephant sanctuary that houses over 60 elephants owned by the temple. Visitors can witness these majestic creatures up close, learn about their care, and even see some of them participating in temple rituals.
3. Parthasarathy Temple
Situated close to the Guruvayur Temple, Parthasarathy Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna in his role as Arjuna’s charioteer in the Mahabharata. The temple is known for its beautiful murals and peaceful environment, offering a great spot for meditation and reflection.
4. Institute of Mural Painting
For art enthusiasts, the Institute of Mural Painting near Guruvayur Temple is a fascinating place to visit. Established by renowned artist Mammiyoor Krishnankutty Nair, the institute showcases traditional Kerala mural paintings and offers a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of the region.
5. Chavakkad Beach
A short drive from Guruvayur, Chavakkad Beach is an idyllic spot to relax and unwind. Known for its pristine sands and clear waters, the beach is perfect for a leisurely stroll, picnicking, or simply enjoying the sunset.
6. St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Church
Also known as Palayur Church, this historic church is believed to have been established by St. Thomas the Apostle in AD 52. Located about 2 km from Guruvayur, the church is an important pilgrimage site for Christians and features beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.
7. Guruvayur Devaswom Museum
Located near the temple, the Guruvayur Devaswom Museum houses a collection of temple artifacts, including ancient scriptures, musical instruments, and traditional temple vessels. It’s a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Guruvayur Temple.
8. Venkatachalapathy Temple
Situated nearby at Thiruvenkidom, the Venkatachalapathy Temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. The temple is known for its connection with the world-famous Thirumala Thirupathi temple in Andhra Pradesh.
Stay at Habitat Suites Hotel, Guruvayur
To make your visit to these wonderful places even more comfortable, book your stay at Habitat Suites Hotel. Our hotel offers a variety of well-appointed rooms and exceptional services, ensuring a relaxing and memorable stay. Conveniently located near the Guruvayur Temple, our hotel is the perfect base for exploring the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the area.
For Guruvayur hotel bookings, marriage hall reservations, and more information, visit our website or contact us directly. Enjoy a divine and enriching experience in Guruvayur with Habitat Suites Hotel.
