Kottiyoor Temple is situated in the Kottiyoor area of Kannur, Kerala. It is a sacred Shiva Shrine in the forest. 

Kottiyoor Temple  is situated in a serene, secluded, and dense green forest area of the Kannur district, Kerala. Spot sunrises and sunsets like never before in the valley of the Sahya mountain range. The temple holds a deep spiritual and religious significance.

Kottiyoor temple, also known as Vadakkeshwaram Temple/ Ikkare Kottiyoor, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There is also a temporary shrine from the temple across the river called Akkare Kottiyoor. The main shrine isn’t open throughout the year. It is spread over 80 acres of land and opens during the annual 28-day festive season called the Vysakha festival or Vaishaka Mahotsavam in May- June.

You can travel by bus, flight or train. Tourists can also book a private car or a cab to reach the temple. More details:

Mode of Transport	Nearest Location & Distance
By Bus	Thalassery KSRTC Bus Stand: ~56.3 km
By Flight	Kannur International Airport: ~42.2 km
By Train	Thalassery Railway Station: ~54 km

ALSO SEE – The Rich Culture Of Kerala: Art Forms, Dance, Festivals, Food & More

Kottiyoor Temple History

According to the ancient scriptures and manuscripts, the Kottiyoor Temple is believed to be the site of  Daksha Yaga: it is the site where Mata Sati (wife of Lord Shiva) sacrificed and immolated herself. Akkare Kottiyoor (the eastern bank shrine) is the exact spot where this took place, and even today, people perform the rituals for the same. The festival includes re-enacting and honouring the sacrifice from the Hindu Mythology.

The temple is a perfect mix of nature and spirituality and offers a unique vibe. The best part about this place is that it is, to date, untouched by modern construction. It is located in a forest, preserved by nature.

Many devotees, saints, yogis and heritage seekers visit this place to experience the ancient legacy & sacred rituals in the natural setting. The Kottiyoor Temple is a symbol of Kerala’s profound cultural and ecological harmony.

ALSO SEE-20 Famous Temples In Kerala To Visit this year (UPDATED)

Kottiyoor Temple Festival-Vaishaka Mahotsavam

• Once in a year spiritual experience: Explore the Akkare Kottiyoor Temple that opens only during the festive season once a year. If you get the chance to visit Kerala around May-June, do plan  to attend Kottiyoor Temple Festival. It is a 28-day celebration in Kerala where you get to witness centuries-old sacred traditions.
• Sacred riverside ritual: The festival takes place on the banks of the River Bavali in Kannur. It is surrounded by greenery and the medicinal waters of the Sahya mountain range. Many people drink this ‘Amrit’ water for medicinal purposes.
• Mythological Significance: Kottiyoor Temple is believed to be the exact location of Daksha Yaga, where Mata Sati immolated herself, and Lord Shiva’s anger changed the course of time. Many tour guides will help you understand the history.
• Unique rituals: Devotees, yogis, saints and more come to worship a swayambhoo lingam (manithara) that is placedon a stone platform in the river.

Kottiyoor Temple Festival-Ceremonies

1. Neyyatam: This ritual is initiated by bringing a sacred sword from Muthirerikavu. Later, ghee is poured over the idol.
2. Rohini Aaradhana: The priest embraces the Shiva Lingam in deep devotion along with the devotees.
3. Elaneer Vayppu & Elaneerattam: After the pujan, tender coconut water is offered and poured all over the idol.
4. Aanayootu: This is a ceremonial feeding of elephants.
5. Grand Processions: This is also known as Ezhunnallippu, where Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati are carried on a caparisoned elephant. People play temple music throughout the ceremony.

The Vaishaka Mahostavam welcomes over 100,000+ devotees every year. The festival is a perfect blend of divine energy, cultural heritage, and Kerala’s natural beauty.

Kottiyoor Temple Odapoo

Odapoo is an artificial flower crafted from bamboo/reed fibre.It’s visually distinctive: long, white, tassel-like strands—often compared to a white beard.Odapoo is offered to Lord Shiva during the festival, and devotees take it home as a sacred token/blessing during Kottiyoor Vaisakha Mahotsavam (Kottiyoor Ulsavam) in Kannur, Kerala.

Odapoo is popularly linked to the Daksha-yaga/Shiva–Sati legend, and is often explained as the beard of a sage Bhrigu that got torn off and became a symbolic prasadam. According to myths, Lord Shiva was insulted at the venue of Dakshayaga. A saint named Bhrigu Maharashi had laughed at him patting on his long beard.In retaliation, the saint’s beard was ripped off. So, the ‘Odappoo’ which resembles the white beard should be considered as the symbol of removing vice and arrogrance

Many devotees hang it at the entrance of homes (and sometimes vehicles/businesses), believing it brings prosperity and protection. Kottiyoor temple’s traditional offerings including ‘Odappoo’ received a patent, according to Mathrubhumi News paper.

Places to stay around Kottiyoor Temple

Visiting Kottiyoor Temple is not just a spiritual journey but also an experience of warm hospitality in nature. We have created the list of best hotels, homestays, resorts, ayurvedic centres and food places to eat in Kannur, Kerala.

Best Hotels Around Kottiyoor Temple

Hotel Name	Description
JK Residency Kelakam	Elegant rooms, good connectivity.
Rajadhani Hotel Peravoor	Affordable stay, homely service.
Tamarind KTDC Easy Hotel	Government-run property, clean & spacious rooms.
Greens Residency	Simple & comfortable stay for families.
Hotel Brahmagiri	Convenient location for Kerala tours
Century Grand Hotel	Premium interiors, business facilities.
Broad Bean Kakkayangad	Modern comfort, family rooms
Dakshin Ghats	Ideal for solo travelers

Best Homestays Around Kottiyoor Temple

Homestay Name	Description
BlackHole Farmstays	Rustic place with greenery.
Cardamom Cottage Elapeedika	Cozy stay around spice plantations.
Wonder Hill Wayanad	Peaceful and hilltop views.
The Blue Door Villa	Modern interiors & homely warmth.
Suvarnabhumi	Traditional architecture and authentic Kerala meals.
Riverside Haven	Peaceful riverside retreat.
Adams Mount Plantation Homestay	Plantation & mountain views.
Coffee View Holiday Homes	Perfect for coffee and nature lovers.

Best Resorts Around Kottiyoor Temple

Resort Name	Description
Agraharam Resorts	Experience Kerala’s tradition and modernity.
Banasura Hill Resort	Eco-friendly luxury stays in hills.

Best Ayurvedic Centres Around Kottiyoor Temple

Ayurvedic Centre	Description
Amala Ayurvedic Hospital & Research Centre	Proven and trusted medical & wellness therapies
Amba Ayurveda Hospital	Expert holistic healing
Ananda Lakshmi Ayurveda Retreat	Luxury wellness around the sea
Anandam Ayurvedic Centre	Personalized treatments for all
Ayurmana	Traditional Kerala therapies
Charaka Ayurveda Centre	Personalized herbal and detox programs
Krishnatheeram Ayur Holy Beach Resort	Ayurvedic treatments around the beach
Favourite Kerala Ayurveda and Spa	Relaxation-focused treatments
Karumanchery Ayurvedic Centre	Rich and trusted healing practices

Best Restaurants Around Kottiyoor Temple

Restaurant Name	Description
SS Beach Resort	Fresh seafood and coastal cuisines
RosesInn	Multi-cuisine, and local flavours of Kerala
Villa Maya	Elegant dining & Kerala specialties
Lumiere Hotel	Contemporary dining
Baker’s Arch	Best for snacks, bakes, and coffee.
Agincourt	Fusion cuisine & gret ambience
Cochin Fort Restaurant	Authentic Kerala seafood
Broadbean	Local and continental menu in fine dining setting

For more information on the stays and food, connect with the tour experts. Let us plan perfect stay options for you.

 

ALSO SEE-Top 5 Famous Monuments in Kerala- Timings, Images and Routes

Nearby Places to Visit Around Kottiyoor Temple

• Boys Town

This place is 9.4 km away from the temple, where you can explore the herbal gardens, nature care centres and greenery. It is a great spot for nature lovers.

• Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

This place is 12 km away from the temple. Explore the diversity of flora and fauna here. It’s a perfect place to take your children.

• Pakshipathalam

This place is a little away from the temple. You can trek here to cover 46 km. Explore the dense green forests; it’s a paradise for birdwatchers!

• Thirunelli Temple

This is another ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. You will find on your way to the Thirunelly trek.

• Pazhassi Temple

This place is a memorial to Kerala’s legendary Pazhassi Raja, who was also called the ‘Lion of Kerala’. It is 38 km away from the temple.

• Begur Wildlife Sanctuary

This place is 35 km away from the temple. Explore its rich biodiversity and spot fauna like elephants, deer, and exotic birds.

• Meenmutty Waterfalls

These waterfalls are 46 km away from the temple and are one of the beautiful sites in Kerala.

• Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary

This place is located 46 km away from the temple. Book your jeep safaris to see animals and wildlife like elephants, bison, leopards, and various bird species.

• Thodikullum Temple at Kannavam

This serene temple in Kannavam forest is located 33 km away from the Kottiyoor Temple. Experience the peaceful environment here.

• Banasura Sagar Dam

This is India’s largest earthen dam, located 44 km away from the temple. Do visit to explore the beautiful hills and greenery. You can also boat here.

Travel and explore Kerala’s beautiful Kottiyoor Temple with us. We can make the best package plans for you: from selection of your stays, restaurants to the destinations ahead; let us be at your service.