Guruvayur

Located 31 km. north-west of Thrissur. This is a major Hindu pilgrim centre. It is also known as the 'Dwaraka of south'. The belief says that this temple was created by the teacher of Gods Brahaspathi (Deva Guru) and Vayu (God of winds). The Idol of the Lord Guruvayurappan is said it have been worshipped by Lord Brahma himself at Dwaraks.

Elephant-race is an important event of the festival. The Elephant who comes in the first place in the race, gets the right of carrying the Lord's replica during the ritualistic procession.

Guruvayoor Ekadasi is another important festival celebrated at the temple in the month of November / December ('Vrichikom'). This is an auspecious day because it is believed that on the Guruvayur Ekadasi day, Lord Krishna imparted the Gita to Arjuna. During this season the Guruvayur Devaswom is conducting Carnatic Music festival (Chembai Sangeetholsavam) in the memory of legendary vocalist Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar. More than 2000 musicians are participating in this two weeks long classical music festival.

The nearest railway station is at Guruvayur.

The nearest major railway station is at Thrissur.

The nearest airport (75 km) is Cochin International Airport, at Nedumbassery.

Dress Code: Men are to wear Mundu(dothi), cannot wear a shirt . But it is allowed to cover the chest with a piece of cloth called Veshthi. Shorts are allowed to Boys but shirt not allowed. Trousers like dresses are not allowed to Girls and women, but allowed to wear Sari and young girls are allowed to wear long skirt and blouses. Now the devaswam decided to allow women to wear churidars also, previously it was not allowed