This elephant hub in Kerala was the location for an iconic movie starring Mammootty: Know more

Many tourists visit Kerala to see elephants ambling through the roads in all their glory. Even at a time when elephant encounters lead to dangerous and unpleasant developments, there is no dearth of tourists who are ready to risk it all to catch a glimpse of these majestic giants. However, if you want to check out over 50 elephants in one go, that too in a relatively safer setting, you can head to this spot near the renowned Guruvayur Temple in Kerala's Thrissur. The Guruvayur Anakotta or Punnathur Kotta, which was once a local palace, is just about three kilometres from the temple. Recently, actor Mammootty revealed that his iconic film Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha, which fetched many National Awards for Malayalam, had Anakotta as one of its main locations. 

Here's what you get to experience at the Anakotta:
1) See in close quarters how elephants get trained to take part in temple processions and how they are bathed, fed and even prepped for festivals.
2) The historic Punnathur Palace is mostly in ruins, but you can check out its traditional naalu kettu and the elaborate premises filled with lush green trees. You can take a leisurely walk in the courtyard as elephants rest at various points. 
3) You can photograph elephants and if the authorities allow, click pictures in the company of the gentle giants. However, you aren't allowed to feed them.
4) Various elephant accessories like caprisons, bells, festival gear and paintings can also be checked out here. 
5) You can learn about famous elephants like Guruvayur Kesavan, who has a deep connection with the history of the Guruvayur Temple.