Temples in Kannur
Religion in Kannur is closely tied to Theyyam. Hundreds of small village shrines, called kavus, hold Theyyam rituals each season, and the region's best-known temple, the Muthappan temple at Parassinikadavu, holds a Theyyam almost every day of the year.
Temples in Kannur are active places of worship, and rules differ from one to the next. Some welcome visitors of all faiths, while others allow only Hindus inside. Dress modestly and check the rules before you go.
Famous Temples in Kannur
Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple stands on the bank of the Valapattanam river, about 16–18 km from Kannur. It is dedicated to Muthappan, a folk deity of north Malabar, and is open to people of all religions and castes. The Muthappan Theyyam is usually performed in the early morning and the evening, and visitors are offered tea and boiled beans as prasadam.
Sri Rajarajeswara Temple, Taliparamba is one of the most important Shiva temples in Kerala. It follows strict rules: sources say only Hindus may enter, and men must remove their shirts and wear a mundu.
Madayi Kavu, near Pazhayangadi, is a Bhagavathy shrine linked to the Kolathiri royal family. It is known as one of the places where the Theyyam season traditionally ends.
Kottiyoor Temple, in the hills of Kannur district, is known for its Vysakha Mahotsavam, a festival held in the forest usually in May and June.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Kannur
- Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- Remove your shoes before entering, and wear sandals that are easy to take off.
- Some temples ask men to remove their shirts. Follow the rule at each temple.
- Some temples do not allow non-Hindus inside. Respect this and view from outside if asked.
- Photography is often not allowed inside the shrine. Ask before you take photos.
- At Theyyam, never block the performer or stand between the deity and devotees.
- Visit early in the morning for the Muthappan Theyyam at Parassinikadavu.
Questions
Kannur — FAQ
Can non-Hindus visit the Muthappan temple at Parassinikadavu?
Yes. The Parassinikadavu Muthappan temple welcomes people of all religions and castes, and all visitors are offered prasadam. Dress modestly and follow the temple's rules on phones and photography.
When is Theyyam performed at Parassinikadavu?
The Muthappan Theyyam is usually performed every day in the early morning, from around 5:30 to 8:30 AM, and again in the evening. Timings can change on festival days, so check locally before you go.
Can non-Hindus enter the Taliparamba Rajarajeswara temple?
No. Entry is usually restricted to Hindus, and men must remove their shirts and wear a mundu. Check the current rules before you visit.
What should I wear to temples in Kannur?
Wear modest, loose clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. A mundu or dhoti is useful for men, as some temples ask men to enter without a shirt.