It is one of the pre-eminent temples in Kerala devoted to Lord Guruvayurappan, which is believed to be the 'poorna roopa' of Shri Mahavishnu. Often referred to as the “Bhuloka Vaikunta” or the ‘Abode of Vishnu on Earth’, the temple is maintained by the Guruvayur Devaswom Board which manages all the internal activities. It is situated in Thrissur township, the central part of Kerala and lies at about 25.7 km northwest from the city centre. As you approach the gate at the east of the temple, the Devaswom Museum becomes visible.
It showcases several beautiful collections of murals, antique musical instruments and temple artifacts. About 3 km from the temple stands the glorious Punnathur Kotta, primarily known as Anakotta, which is the largest centre for captive elephants in Kerala. The place is home to around 50 elephants of all ages, calves to ones that are over 70 years of age. It is indeed an incredible sight to see these large tuskers munching on palm fronds, playing in the mud or taking a bath peacefully as their mahouts scrub away at their hides.
