Spread along the Indian coast, Kannur is a city located in the southern state of Kerala. Once known as a port city with a significant role in spice trading, the city remains one of India’s top attractions for its forts and museums, bay area, palm trees, and pristine beaches. If your time in Kannur is limited, one place that must be on your to-do list is the Muthappan Temple. in Parassinikkadavu, just outside of Kannur City. The sacred Hindu temple, on the banks of the Valapattanam River, is a renowned pilgrimage site for people of all religions. Check out our guide to Muthappan Temple, Kannur, and find out why it’s worth visiting and the best things to do there.
Things to do
Built on the banks of Valapattanam River, in the small village of Parassinikadavu, Muthappan temple should be on your bucket list. Here’s why:
Have a “direct conversation” with God
Muthappan temple is, without a doubt, unlike any other temples you’ve ever been to. Pilgrims come here in large numbers to pray and talk to God because prayers are offered in a unique way that differs from popular traditions. Upon arrival, visitors will find a Muthappan Theyyam artist that embodies God. It is believed that the words of God speak through him, and people talk to him as if they were in front of the Lord himself. Some of the most prevalent offerings pilgrims bring include dried fish and toddy, an alcoholic beverage, but can also consist of coconut and cooked grains, depending on the occasion.
Attend the annual Puthari Thiruvappana Festival
Every year, around the first week of December, the temple hosts a festival called Puthari Thiruvappana. The celebration is associated with the harvest season and includes a variety of customs and rituals spread over two days. Expect to see locals in all kinds of costumes, wearing masks, and with their bodies painted, as well as witness different processions, evening and night performances, and other cultural events. Newly harvested rice crops are offered at Madappura, shrine where Muthappan is worshipped.
Admire the temple’s spectacular architecture
One of the first things that make the Muthappan temple stand out is its striking architecture, emphasized by the temple’s location, on the river banks. The white construction spreads on three levels and resembles no other Hindu temple in the area.
Travel tips
Best time to visit
Avoid June to September as it’s the monsoon season and the city experiences heavy rains. The best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is pleasant.
The temple is open to people of all religions
One of the things that set the Muthappan Temple apart from other worship places is its core belief that “the whole world is one family,” allowing people from all walks of life and of any religion to visit the temple, pray to God, and receive an answer. The temple always welcomes people in need of a warm meal and accommodation, offering them a place to stay, boiled black beans, and tea for free.
Wash yourself in the river
Thiruvappana and Vellattam Theyyam are performed twice daily, in the early morning and evening. People who wish to enter the inner sanctum should keep in mind that they first need to wash in the river, so they go inside the temple clean.
The role of dogs at the temple
You’ll probably notice a lot of dogs both in and around the temple, which might come as a surprise. That is because dogs are considered to be sacred animals at the temple, and are even given different offerings by pilgrims visiting the center of worship. No need to worry, however, they’re very used to people, and they’re friendly.
Legends and stories always picture Sree Muthappan in the company of a dog, as the animals are very important to him. You’ll even see two bronze dog statues at the entrance of the temple, giving tribute to the sacred animal, believed to be God’s faithful guard.
Proper attire
When it comes to the best clothes to wear on a visit to the temple, we recommend you try traditional Indian clothing, for a more authentic experience. However, since the temple is open to people of all religions, wearing a decent pair of pants and a shirt or a long dress or skirt is all right, too.
How to get there
By car
Muthappan temple is situated north from Kannur City, at a distance of approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles). The most convenient and comfortable way to get to the temple is by car. It will take you approximately 25 minutes to drive to Muthappan temple.
By taxi
If you don’t have a car, we recommend you take a taxi from Kannur City to Muthappan temple. You’ll get there in less than 25 minutes, for a cost of 8 to 10 USD, on average, for one way.
Muthappan Temple information
Muthappan Temple
Address: Parassinikadavu, Kerala 670563
Opening hours: 7am - 6:30pm (daily)
Official website: Muthappan Temple
Department of tourism: Kerala Tourism
History
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