Parassinikkadavu Muthappan Temple, located in the picturesque Kannur district of Kerala, is one of the most distinctive spiritual destinations in South India. Dedicated to the folk deity Sree Muthappan, this temple stands apart from conventional Hindu temples with its unique fusion of Theyyam traditions, daily ritual performances, and inclusive religious practices. Welcoming people of all castes and religions, it reflects the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual fabric of Kerala’s Malabar region.
Temple About
Parassinikkadavu Muthappan Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Sree Muthappan, revered as a combination of Lord Shiva and Vishnu. It is especially known for ritual Theyyam worship, performed daily.
Temple Description
The temple is located by the Valapattanam River, where traditions, folklore, and spirituality merge. Unlike most temples, the worship here is through vibrant Theyyam performances a traditional ritual art of North Kerala done as daily sevas. The temple symbolizes inclusivity and cultural harmony.
Temple Specialty
Daily Theyyam performances (Vellattam and Thiruvappana)
Open to all, regardless of religion or caste
Free meals (Annadanam) to all devotees
Dogs are considered divine and roam freely in the premises
Temple Address
Parassinikkadavu Muthappan Temple, Parassinikadavu, Anthoor Municipality, Kannur, Kerala – 670563, India
Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude)
Latitude: 11.9885° N, Longitude: 75.3657° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 5:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Evening: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Theyyam performances occur during both sessions
Temple Sevas
Vellattam – early morning ritual
Thiruvappana – evening major performance
Common offerings include: payasam, fish, toddy, coconut, and more
Traveling Facilities
Well-connected via road and rail to Kannur
Public and private bus services available frequently
Auto and taxi facilities available nearby
Food Facilities
Free meals (Annadanam) provided daily
Small vegetarian/non-vegetarian eateries around the temple
Stay Facilities
Temple-run guesthouses
Budget hotels and homestays available in Parassinikadavu and Kannur
Nearby Railway Station
Kannur Railway Station – 20 km away
Nearby Airport
Kannur International Airport (CNN) – 35 km away
Nearby Bus Station
Parassinikadavu Bus Stand – 1 km
Kannur KSRTC Bus Stand – 20 km
Bus Routes to Temple
From Kannur: Buses to Parassinikadavu via Taliparamba
Direct buses from nearby cities like Payyanur and Thalassery
Train Routes to Temple
Reach Kannur Railway Station
Take bus or taxi from Kannur to the temple
Air Ways to Temple
Land at Kannur International Airport
Taxi or bus ride of ~35 km to the temple
Nearby Cities to Temple
Kannur, Taliparamba, Payyanur, Thalassery
Nearby Visiting Temples & Places
Rajarajeshwara Temple, Taliparamba
Trichambaram Temple, near Taliparamba
Parassinikkadavu Snake Park
Payyambalam Beach, St. Angelo Fort
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March – Pleasant climate and festive season
Annual Festival in December is a major attraction
Shopping Famous For
Handloom textiles, traditional Kerala cotton sarees
Banana chips, coconut sweets, and local snacks
Brass and bronze idols, souvenirs, and handicrafts
Parassinikkadavu Muthappan Temple is not just a place of worship, but a vibrant center of Kerala’s rich folklore, inclusiveness, and spiritual fervor. From the roaring rhythms of Theyyam to the serenity of the riverbank, and the warm hospitality of the temple’s free meals this temple offers a unique experience that blends devotion with culture. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or a curious traveler, this temple is a must-visit gem in God’s Own Country.
