December 19, 2026 · Chembai Sangeetholsavam Dec 9–19 · Udayasthamana Pooja · Book your stay now — rooms fill up 3–4 months early.
Guruvayur Ekadasi is the most sacred day of the year at Guruvayur Temple — a spiritual experience unlike any other in Kerala. The 11-day Chembai Sangeetholsavam music festival culminates on Ekadasi day with the legendary Udayasthamana Pooja — 21 continuous poojas performed from sunrise to sunset without a break.
11-day Carnatic music festival (Dec 9–19) with 2,000+ musicians performing at the temple auditorium. Named after legendary vocalist Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar.
21 continuous poojas performed from sunrise (6 AM) to sunset on Ekadasi day — a once-a-year ritual witnessed by lakhs of devotees.
Guruvayur Devaswom's sacred elephants adorned with golden caparisons and paraded around the temple during the festival evenings.
Grand flower abhishekam ritual — Lord Guruvayurappan bathed in thousands of freshly picked flowers. Extremely sacred and visually breathtaking.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| December 9, 2026 | Chembai Sangeetholsavam opens — Day 1 concert |
| Dec 9–18 | Daily Carnatic music concerts at temple auditorium |
| December 18 (Eve) | Ekadasi eve — special midnight poojas |
| December 19 — Ekadasi Day | Udayasthamana Pooja (6 AM – sunset) · Pushpabhishekam · Grand elephant procession |
| December 19 evening | Final Chembai Sangeetholsavam concert · Valedictory ceremony |
Guruvayur Ekadasi is the single most crowded day at the temple — lakhs of pilgrims arrive from across India and abroad. Here is what to expect:
The Chembai Sangeetholsavam is one of the finest Carnatic music festivals in South India, held at the Guruvayur Temple Auditorium every December. Named after Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar — the legendary vocalist who donated his voice to the temple — the festival features performances by top artists from across South India.
Concerts are typically held in the evenings (6–9 PM) and are open to all devotees free of charge. Seating is limited and devotees are advised to arrive by 5 PM to secure a good spot.
Our team confirms rooms within minutes. 50m from temple. No advance payment.