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Located in Kochi, Sree Poornathrayeesa Tripunithura Temple is one of the greatest temples of Kerala. It is counted among the eight main royal temples of the erstwhile Cochile Kingdom. The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Vishnu who is also considered the national deity of the Cochin Kingdom and the protector guardian of the city of Tripunithura. This temple is also famous for its annual utsavam or festival called Vrishchikotsavam conducted during November or December with more than 40 elephants participating in the event.
Quick Facts About Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple
Tripunithura Temple Address: Poornathrayeesa Temple, Kottakakom, Tripunithura, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala
Tripunithura Temple Timings: 4 AM- 11:15 AM, 4 PM- 8:15 PM
Best Time To Visit: November- December
Nearest Airport: Kochi Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tripunithura Railway Station
About Tripunithura Temple
Photo: Rajesh Kakkanatt / Wikimedia Commons
Located about 10 km from Ernakulam, Sree Poornathrayeesa Tripunithura Temple is believed to have been built by Arjuna from Mahabharata and originally belonged to the Cochin Royal Family. The temple legend goes like this- once there was a Brahmin who lost his 10 children, one after another, after birth. He then sought the help of Arjuna, who further approached Lord Vishnu on behalf of the Brahmin. Lord Vishnu agreed to his request for the rebirth of all the Brahmin children and also gave him the Sree Poornathrayeesa idol, now the main idol of this temple.
The temple was partially destroyed in 1920 due to fire accidents, it was again reconstructed in 1921 by the famous architect Sri Eachara Warrier. The temple plays host to the biggest temple festival in the world- the Vrishchika Utsavam which is celebrated for 8 days in the Malayalam Vrishchika month.
Places To Visit Near Tripunithura Temple
In addition to the Tripunithura Temple Kerala, one can also visit several other tourist attractions located in its vicinity.
1.Chottanikara Temple
Photo: Roney Maxwell / Wikimedia Commons
Located just 8 km away from Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple is the Chottanikara Temple dedicated to goddess Bhagavathy. It is a hugely popular and revered Hindu temple among the locals and tourists. The grandeur of the temple is aptly matched by the greenery and mesmerising landscapes surrounding it. The rituals and ceremonies practised at the temple draw the devotees seeking spiritual solace and blessings from the Goddess Bhagavathy who is famous for her healing powers. One can reach the temple easily through local buses or taxi services from the Poornathrayeesa Temple.
Timings: 4 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
2. Hill Palace Museum
Photo: NobinJose6 / Wikimedia Commons
Located just 2.5 km from Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple, the Hill Palace Museum is a representation of the regal past of the state. This architectural marvel boasts of centuries-old history along with an impressive collection of paintings, artefacts and antiques from the opulent lifestyles of the Kochi royal family. The grandeur of the exhibits and their intricate craftsmanship will give you a glimpse of the magnificence of the royal heritage of Kerala.
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM (closed on Mondays)
3.Chilavannoor Lake
Photo: Eberhard grossgasteiger / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Located in the heart of the metro city of Kochi, the Chilavannoor Lake is a key water body and a part of Vembanad backwaters. The place has a great ambience with a peaceful and quiet environment for family picnics. There is a small stage as well as benches that provide a comfortable view of the lake. One can also indulge in activities like fishing.
Location: Chilavannoor, Kochi, Ernakulum
4. Thrikkakkara Vamana Moorthy Temple
Photo: Krishnadasnaduvath / Wikimedia Commons
Housing the historically significant lithic records, the Thrikkakkara Vamana Moorthy Temple is located in the village of Thrikakkara. This is a popular place to visit, especially during the annual Onam festival for the annual temple celebrations. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams Of Kerala. This temple is dedicated to the Lord Vishnu, an incarnation of the Vamana god. The communal harmony is the hallmark of this temple with people from different religions turning out in large numbers.
Timings: 4:30 AM – 11 AM, 5 PM – 8 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Kathryn Greenhill / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The city of Tripunithura is a popular temple city of Kochi and has several hotels, resorts and homestays where one can stay. Some of the popular options are The Classic Fort, Mareena Regency, Aquaria the Boutique Resort, Kings Fort, NM Royale County, and Livanta.
Where To Eat
Photo: Mukeshkhanore / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are several restaurants and local eateries located at a stone’s throw distance from Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple. Some of the popular options where one can savour the delicious local fare are Chillies Restaurant, Hotel Aryaas, The LMN, and Zoka Sky Grill Mosaic.
Featuring the traditional style of architecture of Kerala, Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple has stood the ravages of time as well as several fire accidents. The temple has arches and gateways that are believed to be 13th and 11th century old with a mandapam that is supported by eight well-crafted wooden pillars. Plan a visit to Kerala with TripXL and explore the beautiful Tripunithura Temple.
Cover Photo: Challiyan / Wikimedia Commons
