Guruvayur, often called the Dwarka of the South, comes alive with divine energy during the Guruvayur Ekadasi celebrations. Observed on the Vrishchika Ekadasi (Sukla Paksha), this sacred day holds special significance in the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple and attracts thousands of devotees who arrive from different parts of Kerala and beyond to worship Lord Guruvayurappan. Falling in the Mandala season, it is considered one of the most important days in the temple calendar.
Out of the 24 Ekadasis observed in a year, the Vrishchika Ekadasi is regarded as especially auspicious in Guruvayur. Devotees believe that observing Ekadasi with fasting, prayers, and sincere devotion helps in attaining spiritual upliftment, inner peace, and divine blessings. The day also reminds devotees of the teachings of Lord Krishna and the essence of surrender and faith.
One of the unique aspects of Guruvayur Ekadasi is that the preparations begin almost a month in advance through the Ekadasi Vilakku. During this period, individuals, families, and organizations sponsor the ceremonial lighting of lamps as offerings to the Lord. Each evening, the temple and its surroundings glow with rows of oil lamps, creating a serene and devotional atmosphere.
The days leading up to Ekadasi—Navami (9th day) and Dasami (10th day)—are also very important. On Navami, the Vilakku is lit with ghee as an offering by the Kolady family. The Dasami Vilakku, which was once the offering of the Zamorin Raja, is now organized by the Guruvayurappan Sankeerthana Trust, continuing a long-standing tradition.
On Ekadasi day, the temple opens at 3:00 AM for Nirmalya Darshan, one of the most sought-after darshans for devotees. From that moment, the temple remains open continuously until 9:00 AM on Dwadasi day, offering uninterrupted darshan across Dasami and Ekadasi. Many pilgrims consider it a great blessing to spend this extended time in the temple, chanting, praying, and witnessing the various rituals.
On Dwadasi day, devotees follow the custom of offering Dwadasi Panam in the Koothambalam, a symbolic token amount for the welfare and prosperity of their families.
No Ekadasi in Guruvayur is complete without remembering Gajarajan Guruvayur Kesavan, the legendary temple elephant known for his devotion and discipline. On Ekadasi morning, a special memorial ceremony is held at his statue in front of Sreevalsam Guest House. The head of the elephant group (karanavar) places a floral wreath at the statue, while other elephants stand in silence and respect. This emotional tribute is a highlight of the festival and a moving sight for visitors.
On Guruvayur Ekadasi, the Udayasthamana Pooja—a continuous pooja from dawn to dusk—is conducted by the Devaswom itself. This special offering is considered highly auspicious and represents an entire day dedicated to worship.
After the morning Seeveli, a magnificent elephant procession proceeds to the Parthasarathi Temple, as the day is also observed as Geethopadesam Day, marking the divine discourse of the Bhagavad Gita by Lord Krishna. The sight of caparisoned elephants, traditional percussion, and chanting devotees adds to the spiritual grandeur of the occasion.
As night falls, the much-awaited Ekadasi Vilakku takes place. Thousands of lamps are lit, and the temple glows with a golden radiance. After the night pooja, a majestic elephant procession moves through the temple surroundings, accompanied by music and prayers, offering a beautiful and powerful conclusion to the festival. For many devotees, this is the most unforgettable part of Guruvayur Ekadasi.
During Ekadasi season, Guruvayur becomes extremely crowded, with devotees arriving for Nirmalya Darshan, special poojas, and the various processions. Staying near East Nada, the main entrance area of the temple, makes it easier to attend early morning rituals, return to the room for rest, and come back again for evening Vilakku and processions without long travel or rush.
For families with children, elderly members, or those planning multiple darshans in a single day, having comfortable accommodation close to the temple is a big advantage.
If you are planning to visit Guruvayur during Ekadasi or any major temple festival, choosing the right place to stay can make your pilgrimage more peaceful and convenient. Hotel Newline Orchid, located near the East Nada of Guruvayur Temple, offers a comfortable and family-friendly stay for devotees.
The hotel provides clean and spacious AC and Non-AC rooms, 24×7 guest assistance, secure parking, and a calm atmosphere that suits pilgrims and families. Its convenient location makes it easy to walk to the temple for early morning Nirmalya Darshan, attend the grand elephant processions, and participate in the Ekadasi Vilakku without worrying about long travel or traffic.
Whether you are visiting Guruvayur for Ekadasi, Mandala season, or a simple family darshan, Hotel Newline Orchid is an ideal choice for a safe, relaxed, and comfortable stay near the temple. Make your spiritual journey to Guruvayur truly memorable with a stay that feels close to both the temple and your heart.
