Guruvayoor Temple Kerala

The ancient land came into being with the strike the axe of the legendary mythological figure Rishi Parashuram, is Kerala - God's own country. With the Arabian Sea on the west and the Western Ghats on its east, Kerala is a treasure trove of indigenous cultural practices and art forms that have mesmerized people all over the world. Be it the age old Kathakali or the newly rediscovered Mohiniattyam or the knowledge of Ayurveda . Basking in the generosity of the sun and rain Kerala is home to a host of centuries old temples dedicated to Hindu deities flocked by millions of pilgrims every year.

The temples of Kerala, known for their ingenious architecture and simplicity are frequently visited by tourists. The Guruvayoor Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is the most popular and most visited Hindu pilgrimage spot in Kerala. Only Hindus are allowed within the temple premises.

Guruvayoor Temple Architecture
This temple popularly known as Daakshin Dwarka , is rectangular in shape. The eastern Nada is the main entrance to the shrine. The Sri kovil (sanctum or the seat of the idol) is adorned with exquisite murals and paintings. The 33.5 m tall Dhwajastambham or flagstpost in the courtyard is gold plated. The extensive use of gold is characteristic of all temples in South India and Guruvayoor is not an exception. A 7m tall deepstambham or lamp stand has 13 receptacles and makes an awesome sight when lighted.

Background
The history of this temple is shrouded in mystery. The temple is said to be 500 years old. The legend goes that the temple was created by ' Brihaspati' the teacher of the gods and 'Vayu' the god who controls the winds after Lord Vishnu ascended the Vaikuntha.

The Guruvayoor temple witnessed the Guruvayoor Satyagraha movement during the 1930's as retaliation to the discrimination against the lower castes regarding entry into temples.

Rituals and Festivals
The Guruvayoor temple is the most commonly chosen site for marriages and rice feeding ceremonies (the first ritual meal given to an infant). Apart from that, the Poonthanam day, the Naraneeyam Day, the Kuchela Day are some of the festivals that are celebrated in the temple.

Location
Guruvayoor is situated 29 km north east of Thrissur. The nearest airport is at Nedumbassery(87 km). It is well connected by road to other places in Kerala.

Indianholiday.com offer information on GuruvayoorTemple Kerala and online booking facilities for temple tour packages to Kerala.