An important pilgrim centre of north Kerala, the shrine dedicated
to Lord Siva is often describe as the ‘Varanasi of the South’.
There are two temples at Kottiyur - Akkara Kottiyur and Ikkara Kottiyur
- both in the deep forests. The annual festival commences with Neyyattam
on the Swathi day of the Malayalam month Edavam (May-June) and ends
with Thirukalasattu, after 28 days.
A sword from the Muthirikavu Temple in Tavinal village is brought
to Ikkara Kottiyur marking the beginning of the festival. It is believed
that this sword was the one with which the mythical character Dakshan
was hacked to death and is today an object of daily worship at the
Muthirikavu Temple. The festival is akin to the yaga (a grand ritual)
performed by Dakshan.
Getting there:
Nearest railway station: Kannur.
Nearest airport: Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode, about
93 km from Kannur town.
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