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Poornathrayeesa Temple is one of the most eminent temples in Kerala, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Dedicated to Sree Poornathrayeesa, who was the erstwhile family deity of the rulers of the Kochi Dynasty, this temple is one of the 108 Divya Deshams in the country. The temple is located in Tripunithura, which is roughly 10 km from the popular and tourist-heavy Ernakulam district in Kerala. So, if you are visiting Ernakulam in Kerala, include this temple in your itinerary to get a glimpse into the rich history and the culture associated with Kerala.
Quick Details About Poornathrayeesa Temple
Address: Tripunithura, Kochi, Kerala 682301
Presiding Deity: Lord Vishnu, worshipped as Santhanagopala Murthy or Poornathrayeesa
Timings: 4 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 8 PM
How To Reach: Accessible via auto-rickshaw, taxi, and bus services from Kochi
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (approx. 38 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Tripunithura Railway Station (approx. 1.5 km)
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Where To Stay: Kongs Fort Rooms, Kabas Lodge, The Classik Fort, Radisson Blu Kochi
Where To Eat: Capuchin Mess, Spice Town, Zoka, Hotel Aryaas, The LMN
About The Poornathrayeesa Temple
Photo: Ashok.tcr / Wikimedia Commons
According to historical evidence, the temple’s origin dates back to the 16th century. Legend has it that the temple had been established by Arjuna, one of the Pandavas, who brought the idol of Lord Vishnu from the heavens. Several folklores depict that Maharaja Rama Varma, the King of Cochin, built the temple. Mythological evidence suggests that it was Lord Vishnu who offered the idol of Poornathrayeesa to Arjuna when he asked for help from the deity regarding the rebirth of ten children of a Brahmin. After getting his wish fulfilled, Arjuna took the ten children along with the sacred idol with him on a chariot and later handed over the children to the Brahmin.
Beyond the mythological significance, historical evidence also depicts that the temple has its history intertwined with the royal family of Cochin, who were patrons of the temple. The same is reflected in the rituals, festivals and celebrations that are conducted in the temple. Unlike the usual reclining posture, here, the Lord is depicted seated in a serene pose under the protective shade of the five hoods of the celestial serpent Anantha. Inside the temple, there are multiple other shrines dedicated to other deities, including Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha and Goddess Durga as well. There is a sprawling courtyard and the temple features a staple Kerala architecture style.
Suggested Read: Bhadrakali Temples In Kerala
Things To Do In Poornathrayeesa Temple
1. Witnessing The Daily Pujas
Photo: Milada Vigerova / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
One of the main reasons behind visiting the temple is to witness the daily pujas and to seek blessings from Lord Vishnu. The daily pujas are conducted during the mornings and evenings, involving the constant chanting of the mantras. The fragrance of the incense in the temple complex will calm your senses. Also, witnessing the priests conduct the poojas daily is truly an enchanting experience, one that you can’t miss out on upon your visit.
2. Enjoy The Annual Vrischikolsavam Festival
Photo: Rajesh Kakkanatt / Wikimedia Commons
Held annually between November and December, Vrishchikolsavam is a vibrant festival that draws devotees from across the country. It is a festival that continues for eight days and involves a grand procession involving 40 adorned elephants and captivating performances of classical music and dance forms too, including Kathakali. The festival experiences a lasting impression on the devotees who frequent the temple every year during the festival.
Suggested Read: Hanuman Temples In Kerala
3. Explore The Temple’s Architecture
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The temple complex, albeit small, features stunning architecture with intricate wood carvings, murals and stone sculptures. As you explore each corner of the temple, it unfurls a story from Hindu mythology, showcasing the intricate artistic skills of the ancient craftsmen. You also get to witness the influence of the Kochi dynasty and their rule on this temple’s architecture.
4. Shop For Souvenirs
Photo: Flo P / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Right outside the temple, there are multiple stalls from where you can purchase a variety of religious items, souvenirs, and traditional Kerala handicrafts as well. Purchasing these items not only supports local artisans but also provides a tangible memory of your visit to the temple. Also, shops are selling small idols, and photo frames with the photo of the presiding deity that you can purchase to take back home with you to gift your friends or relatives.
Suggested Read: Shiva Temples In Kerala
Places To Visit Around Poornathrayeesa Temple
1. Hill Palace Museum
Photo: Maheshbabu.nair / Wikimedia Commons
Since this temple has a history associated with the Kochi dynasty, a visit to the Hill Palace Museum is an absolute must while you are there. What was once the official residence of the rulers of the Kochi dynasty is currently presented as a museum. The museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts, including exquisite furniture, weaponry, paintings, and archaeological finds. Beyond the museum itself, you can explore the lawn and the courtyard in the front.
Distance From The Temple: 3.1 Km
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM (Closed on Mondays)
2. Kerala Kalamandalam
Photo:Sreemadhav / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
To indulge yourself in the classical art forms that are popular in Kerala, make your way to Kerala Kalamandalam after offering your prayers at the temple. It is a renowned institute dedicated to preserving and promoting Kerala’s rich tradition of Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and other classical dance and music forms. You can visit the institute to even take an introductory class to learn more about the art forms.
Distance From The Temple: 6.1 Km
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Suggested Read: Vishnu Temples In Kerala
3. Tripunithura Market
Photo: Son Tung Tran / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Located within walking distance from the temple, Tripunithura Market is another popular spot that you must visit after offering your prayers to the deity. This is a colourful marketplace that’s known for selling a variety of local produce, spices, handcrafted souvenirs, and traditional clothing. Ensure that you put your bargaining skills in this place.
Distance From The Temple: 1.5 Km
Timings: 24*7 (Closed on Sundays)
4. Chottanikkara Temple
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Another popular temple that is a must-visit when you are in Tripunithura is the Chottanikkara Temple. It is a prominent Hindu temple that is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy. The temple is primarily known for its healing powers, which explains why ailing devotees from across the country visit this temple to find relief from their mental and physical ailments.
Distance From The Temple: 7.5 Km
Timings: 4 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 8 PM
Suggested Read: Nagaraja Temples In Kerala
5. Kerala Folklore Museum
Photo: Rabe! / Wikimedia Commons
For those of you who are interested in learning more about the local folklore and cultural heritage of Kochi and Kerala, a visit to the Kerala Folklore Museum is a must. The museum is home to a vast collection of artefacts, including traditional costumes, jewellery, household items, and performing arts exhibits as well.
Distance From The Temple: 5.9 Km
Timings: 9:30 AM – 6 PM
The Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple is a must-visit when you are visiting Tripunithura in Kerala. The temple is known for its religious significance. If you want to learn more about the details of the Kochi dynasty and the cultural heritage of Kochi, be sure to include this temple in your itinerary. Book your next trip to Kerala with TripXL, and get to explore this ancient temple for a unique experience.
Cover Photo: Challiyan / Wikimedia Commons
