Kottiyoor Mahadeva Temple – Kerala

Kottiyoor Mahadeva Temple is a sacred pilgrimage destination nestled in the lush green forests of Kannur district, Kerala. Revered as "Dakshina Kasi," the temple is steeped in mythology, spirituality, and nature. Associated with Lord Shiva and the Daksha Yaga legend, the temple attracts thousands of devotees each year, especially during the annual Vysakha Mahotsavam. This guide offers complete information about the temple, including travel, sevas, facilities, and nearby attractions.

Temple About

Kottiyoor Mahadeva Temple is a highly revered Shiva temple that symbolizes divine penance and devotion. It holds a unique place in Hindu religious history as the site of Sati Devi’s self-immolation.

Temple Description

The temple has two shrines: Akkare Kottiyoor, open only during the festival season, and Ikkare Kottiyoor, open year-round. Situated along the Vavali river and surrounded by thick forest, the temple offers an awe-inspiring spiritual experience in nature's lap.

Temple Specialty

Mythological link to Daksha Yagna

Set in pristine wilderness, accessible only by foot during the festival

Vedic-style rituals with no idol worship at Akkare temple

Hosts one of Kerala’s most important pilgrimages

Temple Address

Kottiyoor Mahadeva Temple, Kottiyoor, Kannur District, Kerala – 670651

Temple Location (Longitude & Latitude)

11.9395° N, 75.9286° E

Temple Timings

Ikkare Kottiyoor: 5:30 AM – 10:30 AM, 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM

Akkare Kottiyoor: Open only during May–June festival period

Temple Sevas

Abhishekam

Archana

Ganapathi Homam

Special poojas during festival days

Traditional Vedic rituals

Traveling Facilities

Well-connected by road from Kannur, Thalassery, and Mananthavady

Buses, taxis, and private vehicles available

Trekking part of the journey during festival

Food Facilities

Free meals (Annadanam) provided during the festival

Local hotels and eateries nearby

Basic facilities in Kottiyoor town

Stay Facilities

Lodges in Kottiyoor and Kelakam

Guest houses and home stays available

Temporary shelters during festival time

Nearby Railway Station

Kannur Railway Station – 60 km

Nearby Airport

Kannur International Airport – 55 km

Nearby Bus Station

Kelakam Bus Station – 15 km from temple

Bus Routes to Temple

Kannur → Mattannur → Kelakam → Kottiyoor

Thalassery → Kuthuparamba → Kelakam → Kottiyoor

Mananthavady → Peravoor → Kottiyoor

Train Routes to Temple

Travel to Kannur Railway Station

From Kannur, take a bus or taxi to Kottiyoor via Kelakam

Airways to Temple

Fly to Kannur International Airport

Take road transport (cab/bus) to temple via Mattannur and Kelakam

Nearby Cities to Temple

Kannur

Thalassery

Iritty

Mananthavady

Wayanad

Nearby Visiting Temples and Places

Thirunelli Temple (Wayanad)

Muthappan Temple, Parassinikadavu

Palchuram View Point

Paithalmala Hills

Preferable Visiting Season

May–June for the annual festival

November–February for pleasant climate and nature trips

Shopping Famous For?

Forest honey and herbal items

Tribal handicrafts

Traditional Kerala snacks and spices

Kottiyoor Mahadeva Temple is not just a religious destination but also a spiritual retreat enveloped in nature's serenity. With its rich mythological roots, unique rituals, and annual Vysakha Mahotsavam, it offers an unforgettable experience to pilgrims and travelers alike. Whether you're seeking divine blessings or an escape into Kerala's forested hills, Kottiyoor promises a journey of devotion, peace, and cultural richness.