The Sri Krishna Temple in Thrissur, Kerala has one of India's largest elephant sanctuaries known as Punnathur Kotta or Anakkotta. ‘Anakkotta’ translates to Elephant fort.  Originally a palace of the Punnathur kings, it was acquired by the Guruvayur temple authorities in 1975 to accommodate the large number of elephants received as offerings to Lord Guruvayurappan (the main deity of the Guruvayur Temple). Jumbo elephants are the prime attraction of Punnathur Kotta. 

Cultural Significance
Punnathur Kotta is more than just a sanctuary; it's a cultural landmark where elephants have a special bond with the local community. Visitors can watch the playful interactions among elephants, both big and small. Rituals like ‘Gajapooja’ (Elephant Worship) and ‘Anayoottu ‘(Feeding of Elephants) are done here, which emphasizes the integral role in religious traditions.

Some famous historical movies like the Malayalam film ‘Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha’ have been video graphed here.

Training for Elephants and Mahouts
The sanctuary serves as a training ground for elephants where they are trained to participate in daily temple rituals and in processions and in festivals such as the famous ‘Thrissur Pooram’. The place functions as a training school for mahouts too, who learn traditional methods of managing elephants. Traditional medical treatments are provided to sick elephants in the sanctuary.

Despite the training, Punnathur Kotta has faced challenges in managing elephants. Recent incidents, such as the one involving an aggressive elephant which fatally injured a mahout, highlight the risks and difficulties involved in managing this sanctuary.

The most suitable time to visit Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary is between the months of November and March as the place is hot and humid during the summer months.

Visiting Hours: 09:30 A.M. to 05:30 P.M.