Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple (2025) Darshan Timings

The Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple is a revered Hindu shrine located in Ambalappuzha (Alappuzha district), Kerala. Dedicated to Lord Krishna in the Parthasarathy form (with the sacred conch in one hand and whip in the other) — the temple is believed to have been established between the 15th and 17th centuries by the local ruler Chembakassery Pooradam Thirunal Devanarayanan Thampuran.

Architecturally, it showcases traditional Kerala style with sloping tiled roofs, wooden pillars and murals of the Dasavatharam (ten avatars of Vishnu). One of its most famous features is the legendary sweet milk-pudding offering called Pal Payasam.

According to tradition, after a chess-game challenge to the king, Lord Krishna ordained that the offering of pal (milk) payasam be served daily in the temple and so the custom began. The temple is also part of the 108 Abhimana Kshetram of Vaishnavism, and is often spoken of as one of the ‘seven greatest temples’ of Travancore tradition Visiting the temple offers both a spiritual experience and a glimpse into Kerala’s rich temple culture from its rituals and dress code to its offerings and festivals.

Jhandewalan Mandir Darshan & Aarti Schedule 2025 Guide – Timings, Booking, Sevas & Visitor Info

Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple Overview Table

Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple Timings (Darshan)

Here are the standard darshan timings for the temple in 2025:

Note: Timings may vary slightly on festival days or special occasions. It’s best to arrive early for morning darshan or before the evening slot closes.

Sevas, Darshans & Offerings

Here are key services and offerings available for devotees:

Important notes:

• At present, the Pal Payasam offering can only be booked offline at the temple counter. No confirmed online booking facility is officially recognised.
• Sevas and special offerings may vary and depend on the temple’s announcements.
• Ensure you are dressed appropriately (see instructions below) to enter inner sanctum for some services.

How to Reach the Temple

Here are the main access routes to Ambalappuzha Temple:

By Road:

• Ambalappuzha lies about 13 km from Alappuzha town. Regular KSRTC buses, taxis and auto-rickshaws operate.
• Follow State Highway 12 (SH 12) to reach the temple area.

By Rail:

• Nearest railway station: Ambalappuzha Railway Station — located approximately 2 km from the temple.
• From the station, autos or local transport are readily available.

By Air:

• The nearest major airport: Cochin International Airport (approx 90-100 km from Ambalappuzha)
• Alternatively, Trivandrum Airport is also accessible though at a longer distance.

Tip: If arriving early for darshan (e.g., morning 3 AM slot), ensure you pre-arrange transport since public transport may be limited at pre-dawn hours.

How to Book the Darshan / Prasadam Tickets

Here’s how you can manage booking of the key offerings and darshan:

• For basic darshan, there is no separate ticketing system; you enter during the open hours for darshan as per schedule.
• For the special prasadam (Pal Payasam) and certain sevas:
  1. Visit the temple counter around 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM to purchase or book your pal payasam for distribution.
  2. The prasadam is distributed around 12:00 PM onwards (varies slightly). Arrive early since the queue builds up.
  3. Note: Advance online booking is not reliably available as per current data. Be wary of unofficial claims.
  4. For other sevas (e.g., small poojas), you may inquire at the temple office about availability, cost and timing.
• Dress code adherence may be required for entering certain parts of the temple or for sevas.

Recommendation: If your intent is to receive the Pal Payasam or make a specific offering, aim to be at the temple before 11:30 AM so you can get into the queue counter by noon.

Nearby Attractions

Here are a few interesting places you can also visit while in the area:

• The backwaters of Alappuzha: houseboat cruises and scenic canal/trip experiences.
• Marari Beach: A quiet beach a short drive from Ambalappuzha, perfect for relaxing.
• Krishnapuram Palace: A historic palace with murals and architecture, also in the Alappuzha region.
• Local boat rides and village tours around Ambalappuzha and Punnamada area for a rural Kerala feel.
• The temple’s own grounds: exploring its paintings, inner sanctum, and participating in aarti or evening darshan.

Accommodation Options

Here are some accommodation choices around the temple area:

*Prices indicative, vary by season and booking platform.

If you want to stay right near the temple for early morning darshan, choose one in Ambalappuzha itself. If you prefer comfort and are okay with a short drive, hotels in Alleppey/backwater region may suit.

Important Instructions for Visitors

• Dress modestly: Men entering inner sanctum typically are expected to wear mundu/dhoti without shirt or vest; women should wear saree or salwar kameez for inner sanctum.
• Photography: Use of cameras or videos inside the sanctum may be restricted; follow temple guidelines.
• Arrive early for pal payasam or special offerings as queues build up quickly at noon.
• Remove footwear before entering temple premises; maintain decorum and silence in the main hall.
• If attending early morning darshan (3 AM slot), plan transport accordingly and check availability of local transport.
• Respect local customs: Avoid loud behavior, eating food inside sanctum, and follow the instructions of temple staff.
• Avoid unofficial booking websites claiming online services — use only the temple’s official counter.
• During festivals or large crowds, allow extra time for darshan and prasadam collection.

Dos & Don’ts

Do:

• Arrive before darshan opening to avoid rush.
• Carry your ID, and booking slip (if applicable) for sevas.
• Dress appropriately and remove shoes when required.
• Queue patiently for prasadam and offerings.
• Bring a water bottle and light snacks if you arrive early.

Don’t:

• Don’t carry large bags or unsuitable attire (shorts, sleeveless tops) if you intend inner sanctum darshan.
• Don’t assume there is guaranteed online booking — verify at temple counter.
• Don’t disturb rituals or obstruct devotees during pooja.
• Don’t take photographs where prohibited.
• Don’t litter the temple premises or leave unattended items.

FAQs

Q1. Is there an online booking system for darshan at Ambalappuzha Temple?
A1. For basic darshan, no booking is required. For Pal Payasam and some sevas, as of 2025 the booking is generally offline at the temple counte

Q2. How much does the Pal Payasam cost?
A2. 500 ml container costs approx ₹80, and 1 litre costs approx ₹160.

Q3. When is the best time to visit to avoid large crowds?
A3. Early morning (3:00 AM opening) is least crowded; otherwise just before midday for Pal Payasam. Festival periods will always be busier.

Q4. Are there dress code restrictions?
A4. Yes: to enter the inner sanctum men should wear dhoti/mundu and be bare-chested; women should wear saree or traditional attire. For general areas, casual modest dress is acceptable.

Q5. Can I get assured Pal Payasam if I show up late?
A5. Not guaranteed. Because distribution is first-come and stock is limited, arrive before noon and book at the counter between 12:00 PM–1:00 PM.

Q6. Is there any fee for regular darshan?
A6. No separate fee is required for general darshan. Entry is typically free.