Guruvayur, where the famous Sree Krishna Temple is situated, is one of the most sacred and important pilgrim centers of Kerala. This is probably the only temple in the state that hosts the maximum number of marriages and rice feeding ceremonies (the ritual first meal for infants). The historic temple is shrouded in mystery. According to local belief, the temple was created by 'Guru', the 'preceptor of the gods' and 'Vayu', the 'god of wind'. It was also the hub of the 'Guruvayur Sathyagraha' , a historic movement demanding temple entry rights for the 'so called' lower castes.
The Devaswom maintains a unique elephant sanctuary, the only one of its kind in the World. It has 51 elephants now. These jumbos are the offerings of the devotees to the Lord. A large number of pilgrims and tourists visit this fascinating spot every day. In this vast compound, there are road facilities for pilgrims and tourists to go around. The present elephant sanctuary is in Punnathur Kotta about 3 kms north of Guruvayur temple. Punnathur Kotta is the ancient palace of the Punnathur Rajas, now in the possession of the Devaswom. There is also an ancient temple where Lord Siva and Bhagavathy are worshiped.
At night reflections of their little lamps cross each other drawing endless ephemeral images. A hanging bridge, floating restaurant, swimming pool, yoga centre and jogging track are at your disposal. In the evening you can row yourself in a country boat past the mangroves to the surrounding villages or with go fishing with fishing rods or try out the Chinese fishing net. A luxurious three bedroom Kashmiri house boat build with the scented Devdar wood and a two bedroom Kerala house boat are also available for stay.
Chavakkad Beach is very popular tourist area and shooting location. Whole part of pilgrims of Guruvayur visits.The beaches at Chavakkad present an awesome sight. The back setters of Chettuva make an ideal place to spend some time in peace and quiet Chavakkad beach.Distance from Guruvayur 4 Km.