Got plans to visit Guruvayur in 2025? Do not miss. Kerala’s own elephant sanctuary and training ground. Punnathurkotta affectionately called Anakotta.Only 1.5 km away from the well-known Guruvayur Temple, this place, notably, offers an extraordinary chance to observe elephants in their natural charm.
Why you should visit an elephant sanctuary Thrissur
The Old Royal Palace walls of Punnathur Kotta are home to over 50 royal elephants. Named as “Anakotta” (anakkotta meaning elephant guarding fort), this place is more than sightseeing. It’s the place where temple elephants are sheltered, trained, and bathed, providing visitors a window into Kerala’s centuries-old unhurried attitude towards the gentle giants.
Timings, Entry Fee & Visitor Experience
Anakotta is open all year round, and its open hours are 10 AM to 5 PM on the same day. Entry is affordable too, at 30 for adults and 10 for kids. Tickets are available at the gate. The elephants are bathed, fed, and trained daily, and these moments are experienced by visitors as something truly special. Photography is permitted for a small fee.
The best and ideal time to visit the Elephant Sanctuary (Anakotta)?
Plan a trip between October and March for the most enjoyable and crowded months. It is cooler in the morning, and elephants are more active. Stop during a festival (Vishu or Thrissur Pooram), and you can expect even more action.
Stay Near Anakotta – Nunuhomestay Check It Out!
Need a place to stay near Guruvayur Temple? Nunuhomestay is an excellent option. Just minutes from both Guruvayur Temple and Anakotta, it provides intimate family-friendly guest rooms, homely delicious meals, and knowledge of off-the-beaten-path secrets. You can reserve your tickets directly at www.nunuhomestay.com or call +91-9746102677 to make reservations.
Getting to Punnathur Kotta
Punnathur Kotta, also known as Anakotta, is easily accessible from Guruvayur. Located approximately 1.5 kilometers from the Guruvayur Temple, it is well-connected by road. You can reach it by local buses, auto-rickshaws, or taxis from Guruvayur
Final Words: An Elephant Sanctuary thrissur You Just Can’t Miss.
If elephants make your heart skip a beat, then Punnathur Kota (Anakotta) is a must-visit during your Guruvayur trip. It’s where history whispers, culture breathes, and nature thrives—all in one magical place
