Top Things to Do in Guruvayur 2025: Temple, Festivals & More Travel Tips

Welcome to Talesofbackpacker’s guide to things to do in Guruvayur 2025! Guruvayur located in the Kerala state, is often called the ‘Dwaraka of South’ is a mix of culture, spirituality and lots of fun. This place is famous for the Guruvayur Temple dedicated to Lord Sri Krishna, this place offers pilgrims, art lovers and adventure seekers a vibrant Kerala pilgrimage tour 2025. Apart from the temple, you can also explore markets in Thrissur, Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary and beach strolls, Guruvayur tourism has it all. Ready for a Kerala spiritual travel adventure in 2025? Let’s explore the best things to do in Guruvayur!

Why Visit Guruvayur?

Guruvayur is a spiritual wonder with the famous Guruvayur Temple, religious festivals such as Ekadasi (November 1-2, 2025). If you have the chance to visit Guruvayur during monsoon, you could witness the greenery and also the beautiful sunsets on the coastline. With budget-friendly stays and English-speaking guides make Guruvayur tourism 2025 perfect for global travelers. Whether you are seeking Krishna’s blessings or trying the popular banana chips, the things to do in Guruvayur 2025 make it a must visit in Kerala guide.

How to reach Guruvayur

Plan your Guruvayur visit with ease:

By Air: 

• Cochin International Airport is the nearest one to this town. It is located at around 80 km from here. Once you land at the airport, you can either hire a private taxi or board a local bus to reach Guruvayur. Usually it takes around 2 hrs to reach the town from the airport. Book via MakeMyTrip for ease.

By Train: 

• This town has its own railway station and is well connected to the major cities in Kerala and nearby states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. If you are travelling from a far distance, then you might find no direct trains to Guruvayur. 
• Instead, you can reach Thrissur railway station which is a major connecting station nearby at 25 km away. Once you reach Thrissur, you can either hire a private taxi or board a public bus to reach Guruvayur.

By Road: 

• Guruvayur is well connected to major cities in Kerala like Palakkad, Kochi, Thrissur and Kozhikode. There are multiple government-run buses all around the day and private buses as well, although they might be a bit expensive. Try a Guruvayur travel package via MakeMyTrip for a comfy ride.

Suggested Read: Combine with Munnar for a hill getaway. Explore our Munnar travel guide.

Best time to visit Guruvayur

Winter (October to February)

• This is the best time for things to do in Guruvayur as the temperature will range between (20°C-30°C). Ideal for people to visit temples and do outdoor activities like shopping and elephant watching. 
• There are also festivals like Ekadasi 2025 Guruvayur (November 1-2, 2025) and the annual Utsavam (February 15-25, 2025) during this period. You will get the chance to witness Kerala’s rich traditions. On the downside, it is the peak season and expect heavy crowds during these months. So book a Guruvayur temple stay via Booking.com.

Monsoon (June to September)

• Monsoons in Kerala witness heavy rainfall every year. While you can visit the temple with no issues, rain may pause outdoor things to do in Guruvayur like beach trips. 
• However, due to the constant rains, the surrounding nature will be filled with lush greens and it will be a treat to witness this. Pack an umbrella for this Kerala spiritual travel escape.

Summer(March to May)

• Summers in Guruvayur can be quite hot and humid because of higher temperatures. It can go quite up to 35 c in the peak summer. 
• While you will have absolutely no issues with visiting a temple, any other plans including the outdoor activities might feel tiresome due to the high temperatures. If you are visiting during this period, stay hydrated.

Festivals in Guruvayur 2025

Festivals are a lively thing to do in Guruvayur 2025

• Ekadasi 2025 Guruvayur (November 1-2): Sacred rituals and temple crowds, carry a perfect vibe of spirituality. Attend Nirmalyam darshan at 3 AM.
• Guruvayur Utsavam (February 2025): Elephant processions, festive music and dance, and a cultural feast.
• Pro Tip: Book a Kerala pilgrimage tour via MakeMyTrip to attend these festivals as spots fill in no time.

Top Things to Do in Guruvayur

Though it’s a spiritual place, Guruvayur town is much more than that to the visitors. There are multiple outdoor activities you can do while you are here. Here are the best things to do in Guruvayur:

Guruvayur Temple Visit

Without a doubt, the Guruvayur temple is the top thing to do in Guruvayur. This temple is one of the holiest places for Hindus, attracting pilgrims from all over the world. While you are here, don’t forget to attend the Nirmalyam which is an early morning darshan and the Elephant rituals done during the festivals. 

Please note that there is a dress code for people visiting this temple. For men, you need to wear Mundu which is a type of Dhoti and for women, you need to wear a saree or salwar kameez (rent locally if needed). Also, Only Hindus enter the inner sanctum, but all can soak in the courtyard’s vibe. 

Timings: 3:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:30 PM – 9:15 PM,
Entry Fee: Free

Explore Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary

This sanctuary is located just 3 km from the main temple. If you are an animal lover, then don’t miss this sanctuary at any cost. This place is home to over 60 elephants which are mostly donated by the devotees. This sanctuary offers a chance for visitors to get a peek into their daily life closely. A top family friendly thing to do in Guruvayur.

Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Entry charges per adult are only Rs. 10

Pray at Mammiyoor Temple

Located just 10 minutes walk from the Guruvayur Temple, Mammiyoor Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to the local people, your visit to Guruvayur Temple is considered incomplete without visiting the Mammiyoor Temple. That’s how important this temple is among the devotees and it is a top spiritual thing to do in Guruvayur.  

Timings: 4 AM to 12.30 PM and from 4.45 PM to 8 PM.
Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: For more Kerala adventures check out Poovar Island Travel Guide

Institute of Mural Painting

If you are interested in arts and stuff, then you have to visit the Institute of Mural Painting. This institute was established in 1989 with the sole focus of highlighting Kerala Mural Painting. You will get to experience the local artists incredible talent and if you are willing to learn it, there are courses as well. A cultural thing to do in Guruvayur.  

Timings: 6 Am – 5:30 Pm
Entry Fee: Free (courses may cost)

Shopping at Local Markets

• There are multiple small shops surrounding the Guruvayur Temple selling handmade items, Kerala traditional handicrafts and religious items. 
• While you are here, don’t forget to check out the brass lamps, sandalwood carvings, murals, and traditional Kerala spices. 
• When it comes to food, banana chips and local made sweets are famous here. Taste it and carry home if you love it. Shopping’s a fun thing to do in Guruvayur!  

Relax at Chavakkad Beach

Located 5 km away, this peaceful beach offers sunsets and calm vibes. It is an ideal way of relaxing after a visit to the temples. A relaxing thing to do in Guruvayur.  

Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: For more Kerala adventures Idukki Tourist Places

Accommodation in Guruvayur

Stay comfy while exploring things to do in Guruvayur:

• Luxury Hotels: Sterling Guruvayur, Krishna Inn, Sopanam Heritage offer darshan passes (~₹3,000-5,000/night). Book via [Booking.com affiliate link].
• Mid-Range: Mayura Residency, Guruvayur Gateway (~₹1,500-3,000/night). Try Booking.com.
• Budget: Temple-run guesthouses (~₹500-1,000/night), ideal for pilgrims.
• Pro Tip: Book a Guruvayur temple stay early for Ekadasi, as spots vanish.

Budget Tips for Guruvayur Travel

What to Pack for Guruvayur?

Prepare for things to do in Guruvayur:

• Clothes: Mundu/Dhoti (men) or saree/salwar kameez (women) for temple; modest outfits for beach.
• Gear: Water bottle, umbrella (monsoon).
• Essentials: Cash for shops/donations, sunscreen (summer), camera for markets.
• Pro Tip: Pack light for easy temple and beach hopping.

Tips for Exploring Guruvayur

• Plan Ahead: Check festival dates (e.g., Utsavam) for your Guruvayur travel package.
• Dress Code: Mundu (Dhoti) /saree for temple, modest attire elsewhere.
• Stay Hydrated: Key for summer.
• Respect Traditions: No photos inside temple; follow priest cues.
• Pro Tip: Hit Nirmalyam (3 AM) to avoid crowds.

Travel Tips for Foreign Visitors

Guruvayur welcomes global explorers!

• Visa: Get an India e-Visa (30 days, ~$25) at [indianvisaonline.gov.in].
• Currency: Indian Rupees (INR); exchange at Cochin Airport or Guruvayur ATMs.
• Language: English is common; hotels offer guides for non-Malayalam speakers.
• Culture: Non-Hindus can’t enter the temple’s inner sanctum but can enjoy the courtyard and festivals. Rent mundu/saree ( Rs.100) at shops near the temple. Ekadasi 2025 Guruvayur is safe with police presence
• Transport: Auto-rickshaws (~₹50) are handy for short trips.
• Pro Tip: Book an English-speaking guide via MakeMyTrip for temple history.

FAQs About Things to Do in Guruvayur 2025

• Can foreigners enjoy things to do in Guruvayur? Yes, non-Hindus can explore the temple courtyard, sanctuary, beach, and markets.
• What’s the temple dress code? Men: mundu/dhoti, women: saree/salwar kameez—rent locally.
• Best festival to attend? Ekadasi (November) for rituals, Utsavam (February) for elephant parades.
• Family-friendly things to do? Punnathur Kotta and Chavakkad Beach are great for kids.

Conclusion

From the divine Guruvayur Temple to local markets and Chavakkad Beach, the things to do in Guruvayur blend spirituality and culture like no other. Whether you seek Krishna’s blessings or joining Ekadasi 2025 Guruvayur or munch on banana chips, this Guruvayur pilgrimage 2025 will steal your heart. Book your Guruvayur temple stay, pack your clothes and dive into Kerala’s charm! Planning your things to do in Guruvayur 2025? Let us know in the comments below. We would love to hear!