Punnathur Kotta is a fort and former Palace located in Kottapadi about 2 km north of the Guruvayoor sree Krishna Temple in Thrissur District. Presently it the one of the most famous unique elephant sanctuary, maintained by the Guruvayoor Devaswam Board. There were 86 elephants house here but currently there are about 66 elephants. This sanctuary is an unique one , the only one of its kind in the world. Punnathurkotta was the ancient place of a local ruler Punnathur Rajas. But this palace grounds are now used to house the elephants belonging to the Guruvayoor temple. The elephants are ritual offerings made by the devotees of Lord Guruvayurappa. The facility is also used to train the elephants to serve Lord Krishna as well as particiapate in many festivals that occur throughout the year. Even now elephants play a major role in the state’s fairs and festivals.
How to reach –
Nearest Railway Station: Guruvayoor, ( 2 km from Guruvayoor temple ) walking distance from the shrine
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport,