Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple

As per tradition, the shrine faces the East with two Gopurams (tower), one in the East (Kizhakkenada) and other in the West (Padinjarenada).  In the front and the east side of the Nalambalam (a square shaped column) lie the pillars of light called Deepasthambham. There are a number of such light pillars in the temple. The eastern side’s Deepasthambham is 24 feet in height and has thirteen circular receptacles, making it an absolutely spectacular sight when lit. Another famous sight here is the Dwajasthambam. It is a flag-staff, around 70 feet tall, fully covered with gold.  

The square shaped Sree Kovil has two stairs and three rooms inside and has an inner room known as Garbhagriha. This is where the idol of Sree Krishna is placed. One can also find images of Ganapathy, Lord Ayyappa and Edathedathu Kavil Bhagavathy inside the temple. The healing powers of the shrine drive many to visit it in large numbers. Only Hindus are allowed inside the Temple.

The Legend says that when the temple of Dwarka was submerged under the sea, Guru and Vayu were assigned the job to discover an equally holy place for a fresh temple. Ultimately, when they discovered the site, the place came to be known as Guruvayur and the deity, Guruvayurappan. The main idol is said to have been installed by Brihaspati (Guru) and Vayu, by the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
The oldest mention of Guruvayur is traceable in 'Koka Sandesam', a fourteenth century Tamil work. In this scripture, it is stated as Kuruvayur. Guruvayoor has scores of references in the works of the 16th century. The temple actually got famous with Melpathur's 'Narayaniyam'. At this abode of the Lord, the maximum number of marriages is observed every year.

Getting there
Nearest railway station: Thrissur Railway Station, about 29 km
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 28 km
Google map coordinates: H2VQ+RP Guruvayur, Kerala