6 Popular Temples in Kannur to Visit for Devotees and Tourists
Kannur lies in North Kerala and is often known as the cultural hub of Kerala. It is a place of ancient temples, vibrant Theyyam traditions, and deep-rooted heritage. As a tourist, you have multiple things to explore in the city of Kannur. From stories of legends to the beautiful architecture of Kannur temples and local markets to local dishes, make sure to experience everything. In this guide, we will explain the beautifully crafted temples in Kannur. Whether you are excited about Theyyam, local culture, or the peaceful vibe of Kerala, this guide is for you.
Why Visit Temples in Kannur?
- Kannur’s temples offer a rich mix of heritage, rituals, and centuries-old traditions, giving travellers an authentic glimpse into Kerala’s cultural roots.
- Visitors can witness Theyyam in its most traditional form, with powerful performances that bring local legends to life.
- These temples are perfect for culture lovers, families, and sp
- iritual seekers seeking something significant.
- From peaceful shrines to festival-filled kavus, Kannur’s temple circuit offers a memorable, deeply immersive experience.
Top Temples in Kannur
Temples in Kannur are known for their rich culture, beautiful architecture, and vibrancy. We have listed several famous temples in Kannur.
Muthappan Temple (Parassinikkadavu)
One of the most popular temples in Kannur, which is known for its daily Theyyam-style worship, is Muthappan Temple. It is dedicated to Sree Muthappan. The temple is open for people of all faiths, creating an inclusive spiritual atmosphere. Located along the Valapattanam River, it offers a peaceful and culturally rich experience.
- Timings: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Architecture Type: Traditional Kerala style with woodwork and open courtyards
- Location: Parassinikkadavu, 20 km from Kannur town
- Dress Code: Modest traditional or casual wear
- Best For: Culture lovers, spiritual seekers, Theyyam enthusiasts
- Tips: Arrive early to watch the Kaavu Theyyam rituals performed daily
- Nearby Attractions: Parassinikkadavu Snake Park, Vismaya Water Park
Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy Temple
Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy Temple is a powerful Bhagavathy shrine historically linked with the Kolathiri royal family. The temple plays a central role in Theyyam and martial traditions, especially during festivals. Its strong spiritual energy and cultural importance make it a must-visit.
- Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Architecture Type: Kerala temple style with wooden roofs and stone pathways
- Location: Chirakkal, near Kannur
- Dress Code: Traditional/modest clothing
- Best For: Festival lovers, history and culture enthusiasts
- Tips: Visit during the Kalarivathukkal Pooram for grand rituals
- Nearby Attractions: Chirakkal Kovilakam, Payyambalam Beach
Sundareswara Temple
Established by Sree Narayana Guru, this temple promotes equality, simplicity, and inner peace. The serene environment makes it ideal for meditative visits. Its annual festival brings vibrant celebrations to Kannur town.
- Timings: 4:30 AM – 10:30 AM, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Architecture Type: Simple Kerala architecture with an open ambience
- Location: Talap, Kannur town
- Dress Code: Modest and respectful clothing
- Best For: Peace seekers, families, followers of the SNDP philosophy
- Tips: Visit during the annual festival for cultural performances
- Nearby Attractions: St. Angelo Fort, Kannur Lighthouse
Rajarajeshwara Temple (Taliparamba)
One of Kerala’s holiest Shiva temples, steeped in ancient legends and royal patronage. It has a deeply spiritual atmosphere and unique customs that are strictly followed. The calm surroundings enhance its sacred feel.
- Timings: 5:00 AM – 11:30 AM, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Architecture Type: Massive Kerala-style temple with granite structures
- Location: Taliparamba, Kannur
- Dress Code: Men must remove shirts; modest traditional attire preferred
- Best For: Shiva devotees, history lovers, pilgrims
- Tips: Women are allowed inside only after 8 PM (as per tradition)
- Nearby Attractions: Trichambaram Temple, Taliparamba town markets
Annapoorneshwari Temple, Cherukunnu
Dedicated to Goddess Annapoorneshwari, the deity of nourishment and abundance. The temple is serene, visually appealing, and historically linked to Adi Shankaracharya. Its scenic backwater surroundings add charm.
- Timings: 4:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Architecture Type: Kerala temple style with vibrant gopuram-like entrances
- Location: Cherukunnu, Kannur
- Dress Code: Traditional/modest wear
- Best For: Families, devotees, architecture lovers
- Tips: Don’t miss the prasadam offerings here
- Nearby Attractions: Madayi Para, Cherukunnu Backwaters
Trichambaram Temple
A Krishna temple known for its colourful annual festival and musical traditions. The temple pond and mural art add visual beauty. Its rituals are rooted in centuries of Kannur’s cultural legacy.
- Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Architecture Type: Kerala architecture with mural paintings and a traditional pond
- Location: Taliparamba, Kannur
- Dress Code: Modest, temple-appropriate clothing
- Best For: Krishna devotees, festival lovers, families
- Tips: Visit during Trichambaram Utsavam for grand processions
- Nearby Attractions: Rajarajeshwara Temple, Vismaya Park
Odathil Palli
Though not a temple, Odathil Palli is a historic mosque included in heritage tours for its architectural and cultural value. Built over 200 years ago, it reflects Kerala’s harmonious multicultural past. Its teakwood interiors and copper-tiled roof are stunning.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Architecture Type: Kerala-style mosque with wooden interiors
- Location: Thalassery town
- Dress Code: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
- Best For: Heritage lovers, architecture fans
- Tips: Avoid visiting during prayer hours
- Nearby Attractions: Thalassery Fort, Fisherfolk Village
Peralassery Subramanya Temple
Famous for its striking stepwell and ancient serpent worship traditions. The temple’s unique architecture and sacred pond attract photographers and devotees alike. It has a calm and spiritual ambience.
- Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Architecture Type: Kerala wooden architecture + iconic stepwell
- Location: Peralassery, Kannur
- Dress Code: Modest temple wear
- Best For: Architecture admirers, families, photographers
- Tips: Visit early morning for the best lighting around the pond
- Nearby Attractions: Dharmadam Island, Thottada Beach
Vismaya Mahavishnu Temple
A peaceful, lesser-known Vishnu temple surrounded by greenery, perfect for travellers seeking quiet spiritual spaces. Its simple construction and calm atmosphere make it feel untouched. Ideal for offbeat explorers.
- Timings: 5:30 AM – 10:30 AM, 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
- Architecture Type: Minimal Kerala-style shrine
- Location: Near the Taliparamba region
- Dress Code: Simple, modest wear
- Best For: Offbeat travellers, peace seekers, solo visitors
- Tips: Visit during evenings for a serene ambience
- Nearby Attractions: Local village landscapes, small kavus with Theyyam
Theyyam And Temple Festivals in Kannur
- Significance of Theyyam
Theyyam is the most sacred and powerful ritual art of North Kerala. In this, the performers embody deities and ancestral spirits. Theyyam basically represents centuries-old traditions, local legends, and the deep spiritual identity of villages and kavus of Kannur.
- Best Months to Witness Performances
November to May is primarily the primary Theyyam season. If you want to witness peak performances, December–April are the best times. Early mornings and late nights are the most common timings inside temple courtyards.
- Visitor Behaviour and Photography Norms
Maintain silence, avoid blocking performers, and keep a respectful distance. Photography is usually allowed in outer areas, but avoid using flash and always follow the kavu’s specific rules.
- Dress Code, Special Activities, Costs, etc.
Wear modest clothing suitable for temples. Some temples may charge a small entry or pooja fee, while most Theyyam viewing is free. You can also witness special rituals like Thottam Paatu, fire acts, and blessings offered by the Theyyam performer
Best Time to Visit Kannur Temples
You may visit temples in Kannur at any time of the year. However, planning around the season and festivals can enhance your experience.
- Seasonal Guide
October to March offers pleasant weather for temple visits, sightseeing, and exploring nearby attractions. April–June can be humid, while monsoons (July–September) bring lush scenery but can also cause occasional travel delays.
- Festival Months
November to May is the Theyyam season, making it the best time for cultural travellers. Major temple festivals and Poorams also take place during these months, offering vibrant rituals and performances.
- Recommended Time of Day
Early mornings (5:30–9:00 AM) and evenings (5:00–7:30 PM) are ideal for peaceful darshan, cooler weather, and catching special pujas without crowds.
Temple Etiquette & Dress Code
When visiting Kannur temples, tourists and visitors are advised to follow basic temple etiquette and dress code. These are:
- Traditional Kerala dress norms
Although there is no rule or dress code, following modesty is recommended and appreciated. Make sure to cover your knees and shoulders while visiting the temples.
- Footwear rules
Everyone must remove their footwear outside the temple. Most temples have arrangements for storing footwear that you may use.
- Photography guidelines
Some temples may have photography restricted inside the main shrine. So, make sure to follow these rules for a peaceful experience.
- Dos and don’ts for respectful temple visits
Inside the temple, it is essential to follow the temple rules. Do not litter around to maintain the cleanliness of the premises.
How to Reach Kannur Temples?
Know how you can reach Kannur temples using different modes of transport in Kerala:
| Particulars | By Road | By Train | By Air | Public Transport & Auto Options |
| Average Cost | ₹500–₹1,500 | ₹50-₹200 | ₹600-₹1,200 | ₹20-₹200 (bus)/₹100-₹300 (autos) |
| Major Routes | NH 66 connects Kannur, Taliparamba, and Payyanur | Trains from Kozhikode, Kasaragod, Mangalore | Flights from Kochi, Bengaluru, Chennai | Regular KSRTC buses + autos from town stands |
| Nearby Temples | Parassinikkadavu, Peralassery, Taliparamba temples | Rajarajeshwara, Trichambaram, Annapoorneshwari | Temples within 20–30 km of the airport | All major temples within Kannur town limits |
| Nearby Stations/Airports | Kannur Central Bus Stand | Kannur Railway Station, Kannapuram, | Kannur International Airport (CNN) | Kannur Town Bus Stand, Thavakkara, Auto hubs |
Things to Do Near Kannur Temples
Temples in Kannur are not just popular for their main shrines but also for the surrounding areas. Some temples are surrounded by beaches and forts that tourists love to explore. You may also:
- Explore beaches like Payyambalam Beach and Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach. These are perfect for relaxing around and enjoying beach vibes
- The historic St. Angelo Fort offers stunning sea views
- You may also unwind at authentic Ayurveda centres nearby
- Do not miss out on local markets for traditional handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.
One-Day & Two-Day Temple Itineraries
At TravelTriangle, we have curated a range of Kannur tour packages. Below, we have listed two types of packages you can customise to suit your plans.
| Particulars | One-Day Spiritual Trail | Two-Day Culture & Temple Loop |
| No. Of Days | 1 day | 2 days |
| Route | Parassinikkadavu Muthappan Temple, Peralassery Subramanya Temple, Rajarajeshwara Temple | Parassinikkadavu Muthappan Temple-Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy Temple-Payyambalam |
| Highlight | Quick spiritual tour covering iconic temples with minimal travel time | A deeper cultural journey combining Theyyam sites, heritage spots, and prominent temples |
| Nearby Attractions | Snake Park, Vismaya Park, Taliparamba Markets | St. Angelo Fort, Madayi Para, Thalassery Fort, Cherukunnu Backwaters |
| Average Cost | ₹1,500–₹3,000 per person | ₹4,000–₹7,000 per person |
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Traveller Tips
- Poorams and major Theyyam nights are some of the major celebrations. If you prefer quieter visits, try to avoid , as the crowd is high.
- You may also enjoy the prasadam meals offered by various temples of Kannur. If you want vegetarian food, try local messes and small satvik restaurants around Parassinikkadavu, Taliparamba, and Cherukunnu.
- During festival gatherings, stay alert near procession areas, avoid pushing crowds, and keep children close for safety.
- For visiting temples, you may use local transport such as autos, buses, or app-based taxis. Roads are well-connected but narrow near village temples.
- Try to start your day early to cover multiple temples without the heat or rush during peak hours.
Conclusion
Kannur’s temples beautifully reflect Kerala’s spiritual and vibrant side. From grand shrines to Theyyam-performing kavus, every visit feels meaningful and memorable. If you’re planning a peaceful, heritage-rich getaway, explore Kannur’s divine circuits at your own pace. Plan your personalised trip to Kannur with TravelTriangle and discover the traditional beauty of Kerala. For a personalised experience, connect with us at TravelTriangle for several Kannur tour packages.
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FAQs About Temples in Kannur
Which is the most famous temple in Kannur?
Kadavallur Sree Muthappan Madappura and Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple are the most famous, known for the unique Muthappan worship, Theyyam rituals, and year-round pilgrim footfall.
What is the best time to visit temples in Kannur?
Early mornings (6–9 AM) and evenings (5–7 PM) are ideal for peaceful darshan. From October to March, the weather is pleasant for temple visits across Kannur.
Is photography allowed inside Kannur temples?
Photography is generally not allowed inside the sanctum areas. Some temples permit photos only in the outer premises. Always follow the employee-specific boards and ask staff before clicking any pictures.
Are non-Hindus allowed to visit all temples?
Many temples allow non-Hindus into the outer areas, but some restrict entry to the sanctums. Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple is notably open to all, regardless of religion or background.
Can I witness Theyyam during my visit?
Yes, Theyyam can be witnessed in many temples from October to May. Early mornings and late nights are standard times for performances, especially in traditional kavus and Muthappan temples.
Do temples in Kannur have dress codes?
Most temples follow modest dress codes, such as sarees, salwar kameez, or long skirts for women, and mundus or pants for men. Sleeveless tops, shorts, and revealing outfits are usually discouraged.
Can senior citizens visit these temples comfortably?
Major temples like Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple have ramps, seating spaces, and manageable pathways. Some smaller kavus may have uneven terrain, so that assistance might be needed.
Is parking available at major temples?
Most prominent temples provide dedicated parking for two-wheelers and cars. Smaller village temples may have limited space, especially during festival or Theyyam days.
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