Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple is situated in Thrippunithura, Kochi, the capital of the former Kingdom of Cochin, Kerala, India. The temple is regarded as one of the most sacred and prominent temples in Kerala and was the first among the eight royal temples of the erstwhile Cochin Kingdom. The presiding deity is Lord Vishnu, worshipped as Santhanagopala Moorthy or Poornathrayeesa, the divine protector and guardian of Thrippunithura. Poornathrayeesa was also the national deity of Cochin, revered for His compassion and benevolence. It is believed that the Lord has a special affection for elephants, and therefore, more than forty elephants take part in the grand Vrishchikotsavam every year as a sacred offering to Him.

The temple is renowned for its annual festivals (utsavams) that draw thousands of devotees from across the state. The most important among them is the Vrishchikolsavam, celebrated every year during the Malayalam month of Vrishchikam (November–December). This eight-day-long festival marks the beginning of the Ulsava season in Kerala and is famous for its divine grandeur, spiritual fervour, and cultural brilliance. The temple premises come alive with traditional art forms and performances such as Chenda Melam, Kathakali, and classical music concerts, all offered with deep devotion to the Lord.

It is firmly believed that childless couples who pray earnestly to Lord Poornathrayeesa will be blessed with the joy of parenthood. His boundless mercy and divine grace are said to fulfil the sincere prayers of devotees who approach Him with faith and devotion.

One of the most sacred days of the festival is the Thrikketta Purappadu, observed on the fourth day of Vrishchikolsavam. On this auspicious day, the Lord is taken out in a grand procession, resplendent in jewel-studded golden ornaments, seated atop a majestic tusker, and surrounded by fourteen elephants adorned in traditional caparisons. The divine sight, accompanied by the rhythm of Panchavadyam and the chants of devotees, fills the atmosphere with holiness and awe. On this day, golden pots (Kalasams) are ceremoniously taken from the temple’s kallara (treasure vault) for the offerings, symbolizing divine prosperity and blessings.

The splendour and sanctity of Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple continue to inspire unshakable faith among devotees. Every festival, ritual, and prayer here reflects the timeless belief that Lord Poornathrayeesa, in His infinite compassion, protects, blesses, and guides all who surrender to Him with true devotion and humility.