Thiruvambady Krishna Temple — Attraction in Kerala

One of the most important temples in Thrissur is the Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple, which is one of the forefront temples that takes part in the famous Thrissur Pooram festival. It is the last temple that leads the procession to the Vadakunathan Temple and put out an extravagant show of parades involving caparisoned elephants, colourful elephants and other such extravagant displays of festivities.

The temple lies closest to the Vadakunathan temple and even closer to the central point of the city known as Swaraj round and lies even closer to the railway station and the bus stand.

The resident god at the temple is Krishna, in his nascent avatar. There is also a dedicated place for the Goddess Bhagavati which is placed to the left side of the shrine that holds Lord Krishna.

There is also Lord Dharmasastha, Ganesha who are placed just outside the temple. Other gods who are worshipped outside the temple include Kukshi Ayyapa, Manikanda, Ghandakarna, Rakteshwari and Bhairava.

Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple History

There is a very interesting legend that is part of this temple folklore. It is believed that the idol of Lord Krishna that is present here was not always a part of the temple and in fact there wasn't one here at all. The idol actually lay fifteen kilometers away in another small town called Edakkalathur. The temple that contained the idol was in fact also known as Thiruvambady. All was swell at the town until wild communal violence started to grip the small town. That caused for some concerned townsmen to grab the idol and take it to a couple who were thought to have save hands. The couple happened to be great devotees of Lord Krishna and accepted the responsibility with open hands. They treated the idol as their own child and so impressed by their devotion and dedication was Lord Krishna that he assumed a different posture. To the surprise of the couple, Krishna now bore a flute in his hand and an extended other hand was meant to signify his acceptance of the butter that the couple regularly fed the idol. This is one of the most famous of idols in Thrissur.

There is another legend that is part of the temple's history. Its believed that the same couple was also big devotees of goddess Bhagavathy and regularly visited her temple in a nearby town. As years passed by and the couple started to grow older, they were unable to visit the temple anymore and that's when the goddess decided to travel with them to their place as she did not want to let go of an ardent devotee. That's why a pillar dedicated to the goddess is now part of the temple.

The best time to visit the temple is during the Pooram festival as an extravaganza of sound and colour are displayed year after year...

Thiruvambadi Temple, nestled in the heart of Thrissur, Kerala, is a captivating place for devotees of Lord Krishna and anyone seeking a peaceful escape. Unlike many Krishna temples featuring him as a young adult, Thiruvambadi enshrines the endearing form of Bala Krishna, the child Krishna. This unique idol, believed to be centuries old, is the heart of the temple and a source of immense reverence for devotees. Despite its location in the bustling city, Thiruvambadi Temple offers a serene atmosphere. The air resonates with chants and devotional songs, creating a sense of calm amidst the urban energy. The temple complex showcases traditional Kerala architecture. Intricate carvings and murals adorn the walls, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and adding to the temple's spiritual ambiance. Witnessing the daily rituals at Thiruvambadi Temple is a captivating experience. The elaborate 'Vakacharthu' - the holy oil bath ceremony of Lord Krishna - is a sight to behold. Beyond its religious significance, Thiruvambadi Temple is a cultural hub. The temple complex houses an art gallery showcasing beautiful paintings and sculptures that delve into Kerala's rich heritage. Three times a day, a captivating procession featuring a majestic elephant adds to the temple's charm. As with most Hindu temples, there's a dress code. Men are expected to wear dhoti (mundu) and remove shirts before entering the sanctum. Women should wear sarees or salwar kameez that cover their legs and shoulders. It's advisable to dress modestly. If you plan your visit during the Thrissur Pooram festival, you'll witness the temple come alive with vibrant decorations, cultural performances, and the legendary rivalry between Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi temples. However, the temple will be significantly crowded during this time. Thiruvambadi Temple offers a well-rounded experience, perfect for spiritual seekers, art enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to experience the serenity and cultural...

Usually the day starts with the blowing of the conch at 4.00a.m. the sanctums are opened by 4.30 a.m. At 5 a.m. We can watch the Vakacharthu of Lord Krishna, Vakacharthu is the holy oil bath of the Lord. Oil is poured on the idol, followed by spreading of a herbal paste, a mild massage and then water bath and milk bath. After decorations, malarnivedyam and venna nivedyam are offered (malar is fried paddy and venna is butter). Usha pooja (early morning nivedya etc.) is done by 7a.m. Usha rites culminates with Seeveli. During Seeveli the Thidambu, a metal replica of the stone idol, is carried on an elephant which circumambulates the temple nalambalam thrice, while ceremonial offerings of rice to Ashtadikpalakas etc. are duly performed.

In the evening the temple opens by 4.30 p.m. After the decorations (Alankarams) the Arathi is performed at dusk (between 6.15 p.m and 7 p.m). The Athazha Pooja (Night Pooja) is conducted by 8 p.m and is followed by Seeveli.

After the re-installation of the idol at the new sanctum a new item of Pooja has been introduced at our temple. It is 'Thrippuka' an incense offering, before sleep. unto the Lord.

The temple closes by 8.30 p.m.

This is the only temple in Thrissur which has a gold-covered flag-mast and which conducts Seeveli thrice, all time carrying the idol on an elephant.

The installation of the flag mast and introduction of daily Seeveli took shape less than five decades ago (1965).

Annadanam for 100 persons is a daily routine in the temple. The cost of one day for Annadanam is Rs.2500.

Annadanam is considered to be one of the most sacred offering to propitiate the Lord. The Devaswom would like to make Annadanam a bigger daily routine, once necessary infrastructures are available.

Devotees are free to partly or fully sponsor daily Annadanam or Annadanam on...