Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple, which is situated in Tripunithura, Kerala, is one of the most sacred temples in South India. It is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the avatar of Poornathrayeesa. This temple is famous for its special traditions, lavish festivals, and historical importance. It is also renowned for its association with the Cochin royal family, who regarded the deity as their guardian.
Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple History: A Sacred Legacy
The mythology and tradition of Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple run deep in its history. The temple is said to be more than 1,000 years old, with a rich history in Kerala’s religious heritage.
Legend has it that Arjuna, one of the Pandavas in the Mahabharata, constructed this temple after having brought the idol of Lord Vishnu up from the bottom of the river as directed by Lord Krishna. The idol here, Poornathrayeesa, is revered as Santhana Gopala Moorthy, the divine guardian of children.
Similar to most temples featuring Lord Vishnu with consorts or standing up, in this temple, the deity is standing in a specific seated position sitting on the windings of holy serpent Anantha, a rare sight indeed. The temple has also gained renown for its oil-lampless sanctum within, where inside the shrine not a single old-fashioned oil lamp is lit, a practice other Hindu temples deviate from.
Another historical fact is that this temple was once destroyed in a huge fire, but then rebuilt, retaining its original architectural beauty and sanctity.
Architectural Marvel of Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple
The temple is a perfect representation of classical Kerala-style temple architecture. The temple building is decorated with delicate wood carvings, towering gopurams (gateway towers), and a golden flagstaff (Dwajasthambam) symbolizing the splendor of the temple.
Key Architectural Highlights:
- Copper-coated roof that glimmers in the sun.
- Delicate wood carvings telling mythological tales.
- Spacious temple grounds with a serene atmosphere.
- A magnificent sanctum (Sreekovil) housing Lord Poornathrayeesa.
The design and construction of the temple symbolize ancient Kerala workmanship and a source of fascination for believers, historians, as well as connoisseurs of architecture.
Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple Timings and Rituals
The temple has a rigid routine with poojas and rituals conducted every day. The devotees are requested to schedule their visit in accordance with the divine atmosphere of the temple.
Temple Opening Hours:
- Morning: 3:30 AM – 11:30 AM
- Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Daily Rituals at the Temple:
- “Seeveli” Procession: The holy idol is taken around the temple on an elephant.
- “Deeparadhana”: Lamp-lighting ceremony in the evening.
- “Ucha Pooja” and “Athazha Pooja” – Special worship to the god.
Thousands of followers go there early in the morning to see these rituals and ask for blessings.
Festivals Celebrated at Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple
Festivals of Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple are celebrated in grand style with music and colourful processions. These festivals welcome thousands of tourists and pilgrims from all over India.
Major Festivals:
Vrishchikotsavam (Annual Festival) – November-December
- The largest festival observed in the temple, which goes on for 8 days.
- Characteristic elaborated elephant processions and ritual temple music (Panchavadyam & Melam).
Athachamayam – During Onam (August-September)
- A majestic procession with vibrant cultural performances and classic Kerala art forms.
Utsavabali – Once every 12 years
- An unusual ritual with offerings to the celestial entities and gods.
Makaram Festival – January
- It is commemorated with unique poojas and cultural dances.
The temple becomes a place of worship, music, and celebrations during such festivals, which provides tourists a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Route Guide: Poornathrayeesa Temple to Chottanikkara Temple
Chottanikkara Temple, a well-known shrine in the devotion of Goddess Bhagavathy, is situated 8 km from Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple.
How to Reach Chottanikkara Temple from Poornathrayeesa Temple:
- By Car/Taxi: It will take around 20 minutes via SH15.
- By Bus: The temples are on a regular private and KSRTC bus route.
- By Auto-Rickshaw: Conveniently available for a short ride.
Several pilgrims go to both temples within a single day, as they believe it maximizes their religious journey.
Best Time to Visit Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple
To steer clear of big crowds, weekdays and early mornings are the best ideal times to visit:
- November – December: Ideal time to witness the grand Vrishchikotsavam festival.
- August – September: Ideal for Onam festivals.
- January: Witness the Makaram Festival and customary rites.
For peaceful darshan, it is recommended to go for darshan from 3:30 AM to 6:00 AM.
Nearby Attractions Around Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple
If you’re visiting the temple, explore these top attractions nearby:
- Hill Palace Museum (2 km) – The largest archaeological museum in Kerala.
- Chottanikkara Temple (8 km) – A major shrine of Goddess Bhagavathy.
- Kodanad Elephant Training Centre (35 km) – The place to be for elephant enthusiasts.
- Marine Drive, Kochi (12 km) – A scenic waterfront promenade for leisure.
Conclusion
Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple is not only a house of prayer; it’s also a reflection of Kerala’s rich heritage and spiritual faith. If you are searching for peace, blessings, or cultural immersion, this temple provides an unforgettable religious experience.
If you are going to Kerala, do make it a point to visit this temple and experience its sacred atmosphere.
FAQ’s
What makes Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple unique?
The temple is renowned for its fireless sanctum, its unusual representation of Lord Vishnu sitting on a serpent, and its magnificent elephant processions.
What are the pooja timings at Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple?
The temple is open between 3:30 AM – 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM with daily poojas.
How can I reach Chottanikkara Temple from Poornathrayeesa Temple?
The temple is located 8 km away and may be accessed in 20 minutes by car, bus, or auto-rickshaw.
When is the best time to visit Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple?
Early mornings or the festival seasons of Vrishchikotsavam (Nov-Dec) offer a serene experience.
Also Read: Shakti Peeths in Maharashtra: Holy Temples of Power and Peace
