Guruvayur Temple, situated in Kerala, is among the most sacred temples of Lord Krishna. It is of great importance to devotees, and it is commonly known as the “Dwarka of the South.” The temple is renowned for its sacred atmosphere, enchanting rituals, and rigid tradition following. Knowing Guruvayur Temple timings is important for visitors, as various rituals and poojas are conducted during the day. Understanding the timing facilitates devotees to enjoy a smooth and spiritually satisfying darshan without any delays.
The History and Legends of Guruvayur Temple
Guruvayur Temple is said to have been built more than 5,000 years ago. As per myth, the idol of Lord Krishna enshrined here was worshipped by Lord Vishnu in Vaikuntha prior to being transferred to Lord Brahma. The idol was later presented to Guru Brihaspati and Vayu (the god of wind), who stationed it in the current position. The temple came to be called ‘Guruvayur’ – the name is derived from a blend of “Guru” (Brihaspati) and “Vayu” (wind god).
The temple has endured several invasions and natural disasters, but its religious importance has remained intact. It has been a place of worship, drawing millions of devotees every year. The renowned poet Poonthanam and Melpathur Narayana Bhattathiri, the author of the sacred Narayaneeyam, were closely associated with this temple.
Guruvayur Temple Address: Temple, East Nada, Guruvayur, Kerala 680101
Guruvayur Temple Timings: A Complete Overview
The temple follows a strict schedule, ensuring that devotees can partake in darshan and various poojas at specific hours. Here’s an overview of the temple timings:
- Opening Time: 3:00 AM
- Closing Time: 9:15 PM
- Break Hours: 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM (afternoon break)
Morning Schedule: Start Your Day with Blessings
- Temple Opens: 3:00 AM
- Suprabhatham (Morning Hymns): 3:00 AM – 3:30 AM
- Morning Darshan: 3:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Special Poojas: Usha Pooja, Seeveli, and other morning rituals
- Best Visiting Time: 4:30 AM – 6:00 AM (less crowded)
Afternoon Schedule: Midday Poojas & Offerings
- Temple Closes for Break: 1:30 PM
- Reopens for Afternoon Darshan: 4:30 PM
- Special Afternoon Rituals: Ucha Pooja and Deepalankaram
Evening Schedule: Divine Aarti and Night Poojas
- Temple Reopens: 4:30 PM
- Evening Aarti & Poojas: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Best Visiting Time: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM (serene atmosphere)
Special Poojas and Sevas: A Devotee’s Guide
Guruvayur Temple, which is among the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Kerala, is famous for its spiritually rich environment and extensive variety of special poojas and sevas offered to devotees. These rituals provide devotees with an opportunity to receive the blessings of Lord Guruvayurappan and complete their vows with fervor.
Daily Special Poojas
The temple conduct various special poojas during the day, and each carries a different importance:
- Udayasthamana Pooja: A one-day pooja with non-stop prayers and worship from dawn until dusk, by the temple priests in the devotee’s behalf. This ranks as one of the most sanctified offerings made at Guruvayur.
- Vilakku Pooja: An exclusive lamp-lighting ritual where devotees light oil lamps in search of divine blessings and prosperity. Pooja is in great demand among those who look to clear obstacles in life and attain spiritual guidance.
- Palabhishekam: A holy ceremony in which the idol of Lord Guruvayurappan is bathed with milk, representing purity and devotion. The ceremony is said to usher peace, prosperity, and good health among the devotees.
Sevas that Require Prior Booking
Some sevas need to be booked in advance since they entail elaborate preparations and arrangements. Some of the most popular sevas are:
- Annaprasanam: The first feeding ceremony of the baby, where infants are fed their first solid food in front of the deity. This ceremony is said to bestow blessings of good health and a successful future on the child.
- Thulabharam: A special ritual in which offerings equivalent to their body weight are given by the devotees. The offerings made can range from bananas, jaggery, sugar, and rice or even gold, as per the choice and vow of the devotee. It is done as a gesture of gratitude and devotion.
How to Participate
Special poojas and sevas can be booked in two manners:
- Online Booking: The temple has an online booking option through which devotees can book their offerings in advance. This saves the inconvenience of last-minute bookings.
- Temple Office Booking: Sevas can also be booked by devotees personally at the office of the temple once they reach there. Booking should be done well in advance, but preferably during peak seasons.
Best Time to Visit Guruvayur Temple for a Hassle-Free Darshan
Guruvayur Temple sees thousands of visitors every day, so it becomes important to chart your visit according to plan for a quiet and hassle-free darshan.
Ideal Time for Darshan
Long queues and crowded conditions can be avoided if the devotees schedule their visit for:
- Early Morning (4:30 AM – 6:00 AM): Early morning periods, particularly in the Nirmalya Darshanam timings, are blissful and spiritually rejuvenating experiences. The temple grounds are empty, providing a peaceful darshan for devotees.
- Late Evening (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM): Another good time to visit is in the late evening when the crowd begins to disperse after the main poojas of the day.
Avoiding Crowds
Weekends, holidays, and festival days see a large number of devotees, so darshan becomes time-consuming. To have a peaceful visit:
- Schedule your visit on weekday mornings
- Steer clear of major festival dates unless you prefer to join big celebrations
Guruvayur Temple Festival Timings and Special Events
Guruvayur Temple boasts grand celebrations and festive occasions that bring pilgrims from all parts of the nation. Elaborate poojas, colorful processions, cultural events, and longer darshan hours are all part of these festive occasions.
Major Festivals at Guruvayur Temple
- Ekadasi Festival: The most sacred festival celebrated with utmost devotion. It features special poojas, grand procession of the temple elephants, and longer darshan timings. The highlight of this festival is the ritualistic Dwadasi Vilakku, where thousands of lamps are lighted, providing a heavenly ambiance.
- Vishu: This is observed during mid-April and this festival heralds the onset of the Malayalam New Year. The temple features rich rituals, among them being an exclusive early morning darshan called Vishukkani, where the devotees witness the first glimpse of Lord Guruvayurappan dressed in divine beauty.
- Krishna Janmashtami: It is Lord Krishna’s birthday celebrated in all majesty at Guruvayur. People perform night-long devotions, cultural events, and special poojas to the God.
Entry Rules and Guidelines for Devotees
To uphold the sacredness of the temple, some guidelines and regulations are to be obeyed by every devotee:
Dress Code
- Men: Need to wear a traditional mundu (dhoti). Shirts, vests, and trousers are not allowed within the temple complex.
- Women: Should dress in a saree, salwar kameez, or Kerala traditional wear. Western wear like jeans and skirts is prohibited.
General Rules
- Photography & Mobile Phones: Photography, video shooting, and use of mobile phones within the sanctum sanctorum are not allowed.
- Offerings: Devotees are requested to adhere to temple rules regarding offerings and refrain from bringing prohibited materials.
- Queue System: Discipline within the darshan queue and following the instructions of temple authorities is to be maintained.
How to Reach Guruvayur Temple & Nearby Attractions
Guruvayur Temple is conveniently connected by road, rail, and air, and hence pilgrims from all over India can easily reach it.
Nearest Transportation Hubs
- Railway Station: Guruvayur Railway Station, which is the closest railway station, is situated within 500 meters of the temple. Daily trains link Guruvayur to major urban centers in Kerala and other regions.
- Airport: Cochin International Airport is the closest airport, at a distance of about 80 km. From the airport, buses and taxis are accessible to reach Guruvayur easily.
Nearby Attractions
While traveling to Guruvayur, devotees may also visit some closeby places which enrich their devotional experience:
- Mammiyoor Shiva Temple: Only 1 km away, this temple is a pilgrimage point for believers. It is said that no pilgrimage to Guruvayur Temple is complete without offering obeisance at Mammiyoor Shiva Temple.
- Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary: 3 km from the temple, this sanctuary is occupied by the temple elephants. One can see the gigantic elephants in close proximity and know how they are used in temple rituals.
- Chavakkad Beach: Only 5 km away, the picturesque beach provides a relaxing respite after visiting the temple. It is an ideal site to relax and feel the beauty of Kerala.
Conclusion
A visit to Guruvayur Temple is a sacred experience, and information on temple timings ensures a convenient and rewarding darshan. Regardless of whether one seeks spiritual refuge, blessings, or desires to behold magnificent rituals, the temple promises a very rewarding experience. It is prudent to plan the visit accordingly and ensure minimum queues so that more time can be spent here.
FAQ’s
What time does Guruvayur Temple open and close?
The temple is open from 3:00 AM and closes at 9:15 PM, but there is a break from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM.
What is the best time to visit Guruvayur Temple?
It is best to visit during early mornings (4:30 AM – 6:00 AM) and late evenings (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM) for a quiet darshan.
Are there any restrictions on entry?
Yes, formal dress codes are in effect, and non-Hindus cannot enter the sanctum.
How can I book special poojas in Guruvayur Temple?
Online bookings or reservations can be made at the temple office for special poojas.
