Kerala, often called “God’s Own Country”, is a land of diverse cultural heritage and profound spiritual traditions. Among its many districts, Malappuram stands out for its rich history and deep-rooted religious practices. Temples in Malappuram are not only places of worship but also centers of art, culture, and community gatherings. This blog will take you on a spiritual journey through the 10 most famous temples in Malappuram, Kerala, highlighting their unique features, historical significance, and the divine experiences they offer.
Discover the Top 10 Must-Visit Temples in Malappuram, Kerala:
1. Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple
Nestled on the banks of the Bharathapuzha River, the Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple is one of Malappuram’s most revered temples. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is a part of the Thirunavaya Kshetrangal, which includes three important temples dedicated to Vishnu, Brahma, and Shiva. The main deity here is Nava Mukunda, and the temple is believed to be a site for performing last rites and rituals for the departed souls.
Highlights:
- The serene location by the river
- Annual Thirunavaya Bali ritual attracting devotees from all over Kerala
- The temple’s association with the historical Mamankam festival
Location: Thirunavaya, Malappuram
Timings: 5:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Dress Code: Traditional attire is preferred; men should wear dhotis, and women should wear sarees or salwar kameez.
How to Reach: The temple is about 8 km from Kuttippuram Railway Station and 32 km from Calicut International Airport. Local buses and taxis are available.
Nearby Attractions: Bharathapuzha River, Nava Mukunda Temple.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening for a serene experience. The annual Thirunavaya Bali ritual in the month of Karkidakam (July-August) is a significant event.
2. Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple
Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is famous for its unique rituals and offerings. Unlike other temples, there is no idol in the sanctum; instead, the deity is worshipped through a hole in the ground, believed to be the gateway to the goddess’s presence. The temple is known for its “Poomoodal” ritual, where devotees offer flowers to the goddess.
Highlights:
- No idol in the sanctum, only a hole in the ground
- Poomoodal ritual with flower offerings
- The temple’s strict adherence to traditional rituals and customs
Location: Kadampuzha, Malappuram
Timings: 4:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Dress Code: Traditional attire is mandatory; men should wear mundu, and women should wear traditional attire.
How to Reach: The temple is about 2 km from Vettichira on the Thrissur-Kozhikode highway. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available.
Best Time to Visit: During the Poomoodal ritual, held twice a year, to witness the unique flower offerings.
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3. Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy Temple
Located in Angadipuram, the Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy Temple is one of the oldest and most significant temples in Kerala. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy and is famous for its annual Pooram festival. According to legend, the temple was established by Parasurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Highlights:
- Annual Pooram festival with vibrant celebrations
- Historical significance linked to Parasurama
- The temple’s intricate architecture and sculptures
Location: Angadipuram, Malappuram
Timings: 4:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Dress Code: Traditional attire; men should wear mundu without a shirt, and women should wear sarees or traditional dress.
How to Reach: The temple is 1 km from Angadipuram Railway Station and 17 km from Malappuram city. Local buses and taxis are available.
Nearby Attractions: Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy Temple Museum, Angadipuram Temple.
Best Time to Visit: During the annual Pooram festival in April, which is celebrated with great pomp and show.
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4. Alathiyur Hanuman Temple
The Alathiyur Hanuman Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is one of the most important Hanuman temples in Kerala. The temple is believed to have been consecrated by Sage Vasishta and has a unique tradition of offering flattened rice (Aval) to the deity. The temple’s serene environment and the presence of a sacred pond add to its spiritual charm.
Highlights:
- Unique Aval offering to Lord Hanuman
- Sacred pond believed to have healing properties
- Serene and peaceful temple surroundings
Location: Alathiyur, Malappuram
Timings: 5:00 AM – 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Dress Code: Traditional attire is recommended; men should wear dhotis, and women should wear sarees or salwar kameez.
How to Reach: The temple is about 15 km from Tirur Railway Station and 30 km from Calicut International Airport. Local buses and taxis are available.
Nearby Attractions: Tirur River, Tanur Beach.
Best Time to Visit: Tuesdays and Saturdays, which are considered auspicious for Hanuman devotees.
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5. Vettakkorumakan Temple
Located in Nilambur, the Vettakkorumakan Temple is dedicated to Vettakkorumakan, the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati. This deity is worshipped mainly by the tribal communities of the region. The temple is renowned for its annual festival, which features traditional tribal dances and rituals.
Highlights:
- Tribal deity worship with unique customs
- An annual festival showcasing traditional tribal culture
- Scenic location in the forested area of Nilambur
Location: Nilambur, Malappuram
Timings: 5:00 AM – 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Dress Code: Traditional attire; men should wear mundu, and women should wear sarees or traditional dress.
How to Reach: The temple is about 4 km from Nilambur Railway Station and 40 km from Calicut International Airport. Local buses and taxis are available.
Nearby Attractions: Nilambur Teak Museum, Conolly’s Plot.
Best Time to Visit: During the annual temple festival in December, which includes traditional tribal dances and rituals.
6. Keraladeshpuram Temple
The Keraladeshpuram Temple, situated in Tanur, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is historically significant as it is believed to have been established by the legendary sage Parasurama. The temple’s architecture reflects the typical Kerala style with intricate woodwork and stone carvings.
Highlights:
- The historical temple established by Parasurama
- Traditional Kerala architectural style
- Peaceful and spiritually uplifting atmosphere
Location: Tanur, Malappuram
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Dress Code: Traditional attire; men should wear dhotis, and women should wear sarees or traditional dress.
How to Reach: The temple is about 5 km from Tanur Railway Station and 30 km from Calicut International Airport. Local buses and taxis are available.
Nearby Attractions: Tanur Beach, Tanur Fishing Harbor.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening for a peaceful experience.
7. Pazhayangadi Mosque (Kondotty Mosque)
Although not a temple, the Pazhayangadi Mosque in Kondotty is an important religious site in Malappuram. This ancient mosque is associated with the Muslim saint Muhammad Shah, popularly known as Kondotty Thangal. The mosque is an excellent example of Kerala’s syncretic culture, where Hindu and Muslim traditions coexist harmoniously.
Highlights:
- Syncretic religious traditions of Kerala
- Annual festival (Nercha) attracting devotees from different faiths
- The mosque’s historical and cultural significance
Location: Kondotty, Malappuram
Timings: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Dress Code: Modest attire; head covering for women is recommended.
How to Reach: The mosque is about 10 km from Calicut International Airport and 2 km from Kondotty town. Local buses and taxis are available.
Nearby Attractions: Pazhayangadi Mosque, Manjeri.
Best Time to Visit: During the annual Nercha festival, celebrated with great enthusiasm by devotees of all faiths.
8. Thiruppuranthaka Temple
The Thiruppuranthaka Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in Anakkara. The temple is known for its peaceful ambiance and beautiful surroundings. The main deity, Lord Shiva, is worshipped here in the form of a Lingam. The temple’s annual festival, celebrated with great fervor, attracts devotees from across the state.
Highlights:
- Serene and peaceful temple environment
- Annual festival with traditional rituals and celebrations
- The temple’s scenic location amidst nature
Location: Anakkara, Malappuram
Timings: 5:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Dress Code: Traditional attire; men should wear mundu, and women should wear sarees or traditional dress.
How to Reach: The temple is about 20 km from Perinthalmanna and 50 km from Calicut International Airport. Local buses and taxis are available.
Nearby Attractions: Anakkara Puzha River, traditional Kerala villages.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening for a serene experience.
9. Thirunavaya Navamukunda Temple
The Thirunavaya Navamukunda Temple is another significant Vishnu temple in Malappuram. It is located in Thirunavaya, a village with immense historical and cultural significance. The temple is one of the few temples in Kerala where the Navagraha (nine planets) deities are also worshipped. The temple is renowned for its annual Navarathri festival.
Highlights:
- Worship of Navagraha deities
- Annual Navarathri festival with elaborate rituals
- The temple’s historical significance and cultural heritage
Location: Thirunavaya, Malappuram
Timings: 5:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Dress Code: Traditional attire; men should wear dhotis, and women should wear sarees or traditional dress.
How to Reach: The temple is about 8 km from Kuttippuram Railway Station and 32 km from Calicut International Airport. Local buses and taxis are available.
Nearby Attractions: Bharathapuzha River, Thirunavaya.
Best Time to Visit: During the Navarathri festival, which includes elaborate rituals and celebrations.
10. Puthanathani Ganapathy Temple
The Puthanathani Ganapathy Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is a popular temple in the region. The temple is known for its tranquil environment and the regular conduct of various Hindu rituals and ceremonies. Devotees visit the temple seeking blessings for new beginnings and the removal of obstacles.
Highlights:
- Dedication to Lord Ganesha
- Peaceful temple environment
- Regular conduct of Hindu rituals and ceremonies
Location: Puthanathani, Malappuram
Timings: 5:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Dress Code: Traditional attire; men should wear dhotis, and women should wear sarees or traditional dress.
How to Reach: The temple is about 5 km from Kuttippuram Railway Station and 35 km from Calicut International Airport. Local buses and taxis are available.
Nearby Attractions: Puthanathani village, local markets.
Best Time to Visit: During festivals dedicated to Lord Ganesha, especially Ganesh Chaturthi.
General Tips for Visiting Temples in Malappuram
- Dress Modestly: Traditional attire is usually preferred in temples. Men should wear dhotis, and women should wear sarees or salwar kameez. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or tight-fitting clothes.
- Follow Temple Etiquette: Remove your footwear before entering the temple premises. Maintain silence and avoid using mobile phones inside the temple.
- Respect Local Customs: Each temple has its unique rituals and customs. Observe and respect these practices to have a fulfilling spiritual experience.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry water bottles, especially during the summer months, as it can get quite hot.
- Plan Ahead: Check the temple timings and plan your visit accordingly. Some temples may have specific timings for darshan (viewing of the deity).
- Participate in Festivals: If possible, visit during temple festivals to witness the vibrant culture and traditions of Kerala.
Accommodation Options
There are several accommodation options available near these temples, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Some popular options include:
- Hotel Rydges Inn, Malappuram: A comfortable stay with modern amenities.
- The Raviz Resort and Spa, Kadavu: A luxury resort offering a serene environment.
- KTDC Tamarind, Malappuram: A budget-friendly option with decent facilities.
- Green House Homestay, Nilambur: A homestay offering a traditional Kerala experience.
Best Time to Visit Malappuram
The best time to visit Malappuram is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for temple visits and sightseeing. The monsoon season (June to September) can also be a good time to visit for those who enjoy the lush green landscapes and the cultural festivals associated with the rainy season.
How to Reach Malappuram
Malappuram, a district in Kerala, is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible for travelers from different parts of India. Here are the various ways to reach Malappuram:
By Air
The nearest airport to Malappuram is the Calicut International Airport (also known as Karipur Airport), located approximately 25 kilometers away. This airport has good connectivity with major cities in India and several international destinations, particularly in the Middle East. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach Malappuram.
Major Airlines Operating:
- Air India
- IndiGo
- SpiceJet
- Qatar Airways
- Emirates
By Train
Malappuram does not have its own railway station, but the nearby stations at Angadipuram, Tirur, and Kozhikode serve the district well. These stations are well-connected to major cities across India. You can take a train to any of these stations and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Malappuram.
Key Railway Stations:
- Tirur Railway Station: Approximately 32 km from Malappuram.
- Kozhikode Railway Station: Approximately 50 km from Malappuram.
- Angadipuram Railway Station: Approximately 17 km from Malappuram.
By Road
Malappuram is well-connected by road to various cities and towns in Kerala and neighboring states. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular bus services to Malappuram from major cities like Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode. Private buses and taxis are also available.
Major Highways:
- NH 66: Connects Malappuram to Kozhikode and other northern regions.
- NH 966: Connects Palakkad and Kozhikode, passing through Malappuram.
By Bus
Regular bus services operated by KSRTC and private operators connect Malappuram with major cities in Kerala and neighboring states. The bus journey offers a scenic view of Kerala’s lush green landscapes.
Major Bus Terminals:
- Malappuram KSRTC Bus Stand
- Private Bus Stand, Malappuram
Local Transportation
Once in Malappuram, you can use local transportation options like auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses to explore the temples and other attractions. Renting a car or a bike is also a good option for more flexibility and convenience.
Conclusion
The temples of Malappuram are not just places of worship; they are symbols of the district’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Each temple has its own unique story, traditions, and rituals that contribute to the spiritual and cultural fabric of Kerala. Whether you are a devotee seeking divine blessings or a traveler exploring the cultural diversity of Kerala, the temples of Malappuram offer a profound and enriching experience. Plan your visit to these sacred sites and immerse yourself in the divine aura that surrounds them.
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