The sanctuary is located on the grounds of a former traditional Kerala-style palace, the Punnathur Palace.
All elephants housed here are offerings made by devotees to the Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple.
It is one of the largest elephant management centers in the world.
The facility functions as a 'hathiyoor' or elephant camp, specifically designed for the needs of temple elephants.
The traditional architecture of the original palace structure remains visible within the sanctuary compound.
Each elephant is assigned specific mahouts who are responsible for their daily grooming and feeding.
Punnathur Kotta is a specialized elephant sanctuary operated by the Guruvayur Devaswom Board, housing dozens of elephants gifted to the Guruvayur Temple. The facility occupies the former palace grounds of the Punnathur Rajas, retaining a historical landscape layout. It serves primarily as a retirement and care facility for elephants used in temple festivals. The elephants are kept in tethered stalls within the courtyard of the traditional nalukettu architecture. Visitors observe the elephants from a designated pathway that winds through the palace garden. The sanctuary focuses on the maintenance and daily feeding routines of these animals under mahout supervision.
From the elevated pathway overlooking the courtyard, capturing the elephants against the backdrop of the traditional palace buildings.
Bring an umbrella or raincoat, as the path is largely uncovered and weather in Kerala is unpredictable.
Keep a respectful distance from the elephants as they are chained and can be unpredictable.
Avoid loud noises or sudden movements to ensure the safety of both visitors and the animals.
Feeding the elephants without explicit permission or supervision from their mahouts.
Dress modestly as this is a site associated with a religious institution; maintain a quiet demeanor.
