Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple

Tripunithura, about 10 km Southeast of Ernakulam (Kochi), Kerala is known as the Land of Temples. And one such temple worth visiting is the Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple. It is said that Arjuna of Mahabharata has established this temple. The deity here is Maha Vishnu (popularly known as Sree Poornathrayeesa) and it is one among three Vishnu Temples in Kerala. The Tripunithura Poornathrayeesa Temple is famous for its yearly festivals. The main one being the Vrishchikoltsawam, which is conducted every year in the month of November- December. The other cultural festival includes the Athachamayam which is held during the harvest festival of Onam and is celebrated with procession of float, Tableau and dances like Pulikkali. This deity is Kula Daivam of Cochin Royal family.

The history of the Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple, Kerala dates back to more than ten decades and was almost ruined by a major fire outbreak in the early 1900s. The current temple is a renovated one. It is believed that a couple who worships Lord Vishnu truly is always blessed with children.

On the fourth day of the Vrishchikoltsawam festival, apart from the usual procession of decorated elephants, a golden pot is kept on a raised platform and offerings made here are believed to bring in a better future. This custom is called Kanikka edal. Thousands of deities flock every year during this time. Kathakali, Chakyarkoothu, Ottanthullal, musical concerts are performed in the temple premises during the festival days.

How to reach:

- By Airways: There is domestic airport in Kochi. Recently an international airport has been opened at Nedumbassery 20 km from Kochi.

- By Railways: Ernakulam and Kochi are well connected by trains.

- By Roadways: A well developed network of roads exists in the district.

- By Ferry (Boat Jetty): Main Ferry Station is located near Ernakulam Railway Station.