Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple – Famous Krishna Shrine in Kerala
Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple stands as a prominent Sree Krishna Temple in Kerala, constructed during the 15th to 17th AD by the local ruler Chembakasserry Pooradam Thirunal-Devanarayanan Thampuran. It is situated at Ambalapuzha in Alappuzha district of Kerala. This architectural marvel showcases the distinctive Kerala style of architecture and is often regarded as the Dwaraka of the South. The temple's idol closely resembles the Parthasarathy form of Vishnu, with a whip in the right hand and a sacred conch (Sankha) in the left. Carved from black granite stone, the idol depicts Lord Vishnu's incarnation as Lord Krishna in the Mahabharata and is also known as Gopala Krishna.
Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple - Kerala
A noteworthy feature of the temple is the stunning display of paintings illustrating the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, known as Dasavatharam. The temple gained widespread fame for its Pal Payasam, a sweet pudding, and devotees believe that Lord Krishna (Guruvayoorappan) visits the temple daily during the Pal Payasa Nedyam.
Legend has it that Lord Krishna once appeared as a sage in the court of the king ruling Ambalapuzha and challenged him to a game of chess (chaturanga). After losing the game, the king faced an enormous debt of rice promised to the sage. Unable to fulfil the debt, Lord Krishna intervened, suggesting that the king serve Paal-Payasam freely to the temple devotees until the debt was repaid over time. This divine intervention became the basis for the daily offering at Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple, continuing to this day.
Entry/Darshan Time
3 AM to 12 PM
5 PM to 8 PM
Specialty
Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple is directly linked to the Sree Krishna Temple in Guruvayoor. During the raid of Tipu Sultan in the year 1789, the Sree Krishna idol from the Guruvayoor Temple was temporarily housed here.
Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple is renowned for its daily offering of a delectable sweet pudding known as Pal Payasam. According to myth, Guruvayoorappan (Lord Sree Krishna) visits this temple every day to partake in the Palpayasa Nedyam.
Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple is also a repository of exquisite Kerala paintings. The temple's interior is adorned with depictions of Dasavatharam, illustrating the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
According to legend, the renowned Kerala performing art form called Ottamthullal originated at Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple. This impactful satirical folk art form addresses various socio-political issues in Kerala. The legendary Malayalam poet Kalakkaththu Kunjan Nambiar is credited with creating this distinctive art form.
Dress Code
Visitors are encouraged to don traditional attire while visiting Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple. Women should wear either a Saree or Salwar Kameez (Churidar), and men should opt for either a Dhoti or trousers. It is important to note that men are not allowed to wear shirts when entering the temple premises.
Festivals
Ambalapuzha Temple Festival
Arattu Festival
Vijayabali
Best Time to Visit
Throughout the year
How to reach
By Air : Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, 98.2 Km away from the Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple. From the airport, you can avail of public transport or get a cab/ taxi to reach the temple.
By Train :The nearest railway station is Ambalapuzha Railway Station, just 1.1 km away from the Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Road :Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto rickshaw to reach the temple. Ambalapuzha Bus Station is just 1.8 Km away from the temple.