Devaswom Museum

Devaswom Museum (celebrated across India as the sacred repository of priceless temple antiques, centuries old performance relics, and royal devotional offerings dedicated to Lord Guruvayurappan), situated near the East Nada of the world famous Sree Krishna Temple just 500 meters from Guruvayoor town center in Kerala, is one of the state's most culturally rich, spiritually illuminating, and historically fascinating temple museums.

Established and managed by the Guruvayur Devaswom Managing Committee, this two storeyed treasure house preserves thousands of invaluable historical artifacts donated by Travancore and Zamorin royalty, wealthy landlords, and humble devotees over many centuries, reflecting the deep spiritual legacy and temple art heritage of Bhuloka Vaikunta (the Abode of Vishnu on Earth).

It's the home of rare antique Krishnanattam dance drama headgears and intricate wooden masks that bring the 8 night cycle of Lord Krishna's divine life to life, the colossal preserved tusks, gold plated ceremonial bells, and life size statue of Guruvayur Kesavan (the legendary Gajarajan temple elephant who served the Lord for over 50 years until his passing on Ekadasi day in 1976), exquisite antique Panchaloha (five metal alloy) and bronze temple idols dating back to the 12th century, priceless gold and silver ritual ornaments studded with rubies and emeralds, antique palm leaf manuscripts (Granthas) detailing Vedic temple rites, ancient temple musical instruments including Chenda, Maddalam, and Kuzhal, and antique temple umbrella canopies embroidered in gold thread.

It represents a rich Vaishnavite, temple performing arts, and historical sanctuary where sacred Krishna iconography, temple elephant lore, traditional Kerala mural artistry, and devotional history unite in Guruvayoor municipality.

Located on the East Gate approach road, it sits just 500 meters from Guruvayur Railway Station (GUV), 28 km from Thrissur city center, 80 km from Cochin International Airport (COK), and 90 km from Calicut International Airport (CCJ), easily accessible on foot from the temple sanctum and town bus stops.

The Legend of Gajarajan Kesavan & Elephant Relics

The museum's most emotionally moving gallery honors Guruvayur Kesavan, the celebrated temple tusker renowned for his majestic gait and deep piety.

Visitors can view Kesavan's enormous curved tusks, the ceremonial velvet caparison (Nettipattam), and his life size commemorative portrait.

Truth is, standing before Kesavan's imposing tusks while learning about his devotional life leaves every visitor in silent wonder.

Krishnanattam & Kathakali Performing Art Relics

Krishnanattam Costumes: The museum showcases original painted wooden masks, crowns, and costumes developed by King Manavedan in the 17th century.

Vedic Instruments: Historic bronze cymbals (Elathalam), conch shells, and sacred drums used during daily temple rituals are displayed.

Panchaloha Bronzes & Royal Zamorin Offerings

Ancient Metal Idols: Rare bronze sculptures of Lord Vishnu, Narasimha, and Krishna crafted between the 12th and 18th centuries are preserved.

Royal Treasures: Antique coins, ivory carvings, and silver offering urns gifted by historical rulers provide glimpses into Malabar's royal past.

After exploring the treasures of Devaswom Museum, offer prayers at the sacred Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple, visit the elephant sanctuary at Punnathur Kotta (Anakkotta), or take a peaceful trip to nearby Chavakkad Beach.