Travel Guide to Famous Temples

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Narsingh Temple Joshimath

September 25, 2019, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: Vishnu Temples

Narsingh Temple Joshimath is a dedication to Lord Narasimha, the fourth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Moreover, the temple sits in Joshimath, which is in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand.

Nevertheless, this shrine is also one of the 108 ‘Divya Deshams‘ of Vishnu. Since the temple is a part of ‘Sapt Badri’, it is also popular as Narsingh or Narsimha Badri among its devotees. Moreover, Adi Shankaracharya set up this temple as a dedication to Lord Vishnu’s Narsimha avatar.

Introduction of Narsingh temple — Adi Shankracharya established the Shaligram idol of Vishnu’s Narsimha avatar here.

Reportedly, devotees observe shrinking in the right wrist of Narsingh idol which continues to occur. Moreover, an existing prophecy hints towards the occurrence of a destructive landslide after the wrist of the idol falls off.

Hereafter, the route to Badrinath will close forever. Nevertheless, this temple makes its place in the Char Dham Yatra packages within Uttarakhand.

According to the prophecy, after route for Badrinath temple is closed, Bhavishya Badri will be the place of worship for the devotees of Lord Badrinath.

Narsingh or Narsimha Temple – Facts

Diety	Lord Vishnu’s Narasimha or Narsingh Avatar
Temple timings	6 am – 7:30 pm
Time required for Darshan	30 minutes
Best time to visit the temple	March – June
Entry fee	No fee
Nearest Airport	Jolly Grant Airport
Location	Joshimath, Uttarakhand

What are the timings of Narsimha Badri, Joshimath?

Devotees can visit the temple during the following timings:

Timings	From
Open	6 am
Close	7:30 pm

What is the significance of Narsingh Temple Joshimath?

Narsingh Temple Joshimath holds major significance as the fourth incarnation of Vishnu that depicts him being half-human and half-lion. Diety’s idol in the temple is 25 cm high and sits on a lotus. On the left-hand side of Lord Narsingh, there is an idol of Goddess Chandika.

While, on Lord Narsingh’s right-hand side are Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, Lord Hanuman and Garuda. However, the temple has also installed idols of Badrinath, Kuber and Uddhav. Devotees believe that Badrivishal rests in the temple during winters. Hence, the priests move the idol of Badrinath temple to Narsingh Temple during winters and place it alongside the Narsingh idol.

The idol of Lord Vishnu in Narsingh Avatar located inside the temple is made of Shaligram.

What is the history of the Temple?

Narsingh Temple Joshimath has a history of around 1200 years and was home to a sage called Badri Nath. Also, the idol that sits inside was constructed during the reign of Lalitaditya Yukka in the 8th century.

History of Narsingh temple — Lord Vishnu appeared in Narsimha avatar to kill the arrogant demon Hiranyakashyap.

An ages-old tale states that Lord Narsingh saved his devotee Prahlad from the tyranny of his father. Eventually, Lord Narsingh took the life of the demon Hiranyakashyap.

What are the festivals celebrated at Narsingh Temple Joshimath?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Narsimha Badri in Joshimath are:

Holi: It is a Hindu festival which relates with the story of Lord Narsingh saving his devotee Prahlad from his aunt Holika. Hence, when Holika sat in the fire with Prahlad on his father’s order, she was burnt off while Prahlad came out alive. The festival signifies the victory of good over evil and is played with colours.
Narsingh Jayanti: It calls for a celebration on the day when Lord Vishnu appeared in his half-human and half-lion form, popular as ‘Lord Narsingh’. This festival falls on the Shukla Chaturdashi in the month of Vaisakh.

Festivals celebrated at Narsingh Temple — This festival of colours called Holi is celebrated to signify Lord Vishnu’s win over Hiranyakashyap.

How to reach Narsingh Temple Joshimath?

Here’s how to reach Narsingh Temple Joshimath:

Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport available to reach Joshimath. It is at a distance of 268.4 km from Joshimath.
Train: There are two railway stations near to the temple namely, Dehradun ( 294Km) and Rishikesh ( 256Km).
Road: There are buses available for Rishikesh/Badrinath from ISBT Kashmere Gate. The temple is at walking distance from the Joshimath bus stop.

Where to stay near Narsingh Temple Joshimath?

Some of the places where one can stay near Narsingh Temple Joshimath while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

Super 8 Temple: This hotel offers a comfortable and hygienic stay. Both exteriors and interiors are a sight to watch and enjoy. Moreover, everything is available in a budget.
Country Inn & Suits: This place is an amazing blend of scenic beauty and high-tech luxuries. Moreover, everything can be availed in a budget. Also, the place is a divinity for travellers.
Temple Travelodge: This hotel offers an entire bunch of modern amenities. Moreover, it slips easily into one’s budget. Also, it is located quite close to the temple.

What are some places to visit near Narsingh Temple Joshimath?

Some of the places to visit near Narsingh Temple Joshimath are:

Rudraprayag: It is the confluence of river Alaknanda and Mandakini in Uttarakhand. Moreover, it is fourth in the Panch Prayag. It’s home to numerous Shiva temples. Also, It is a part of part of the holy Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand. This confluence is 115 km away from Narsimha Badri.
Vasudeva Temple: It holds its place in the list of famous Vishnu temples in India. Nonetheless, the temple resides 30 yards away from the Narsimha Badri. The main deity of the temple is Vasudeva whose idol is carved out of black stone and is 6 feet high.

Sahasra Kalasabhishekam Tirumala – Procedure, Timings, and Booking

June 29, 2022, Sasidhar Darla 17 Comments Filed Under: Pujas, Tirumala

Here is everything you want to know about Sahasra Kalasabhishekam in Tirumala.

What is Sahasra Kalasabhishekam?

Sahasra Kalasabhishekam seva is offered at Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam to Sri Bhoga Srinivasa Murthi – the silver replica deity of Mula Virat, the processional deities of Sri Malayappa Swamy varu along with his two consorts, Sri Viswaksena – the chief commander of Lord. This seva is performed to the deities after the second bell in the morning at the Bangaru Vakili.

Who should perform Sahasra Kalasabhishekam?

Here’s who should do Sahasra Kalasabhishekam:

Any person seeking the divine blessings of Lord Balaji should perform this seva.

What are the best days to do Sahasra Kalasabhishekam?

The best days to perform Sahasra Kalasabhishekam are:

This pooja is performed only on Wednesday.
One should make prior booking to get the dates to perform this pooja.
It should be performed early in the morning, the best time to do this pooja is 5.30 a.m.

What is the procedure for performing Sahasra Kalasabhishekam?

Here’s how to do Sahasra Kalasabhishekam:

The Bhoga Srinivas Murthy who was the main deity was connected by using the thin silk rope with the Mula Virat in the sanctum (Garbhalayam)
One end of the thin silk rope is kept near Kathithasta of the Mula Virat and the other end is attached to the Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy feet, symbolically is represents “Establish a new relationship in between the Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy and the main deity to achieve 2 purposes”.
First one, it is very clear that Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy represents the Mula Virat
And the other one, it becomes clear that the Sahasra Kalsabhishekam puja is offered to the main deity who is also known as the Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy.
The Viswaksena idol is kept at the life side of Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy outside the Bangura Vakili.
Sri Malayappa Swamy varu along with his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi is kept at the right side of the main deity Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy outside the Bangura Vakili.
During the seva the archakas arranged 1008 silver vessels that are filled with pure water (Known as Abhisheka Tirtha or Parimala Teertham) that includes sandal paste and there will be 8 Parivara Vessels & 1 Gold vessel that are filled with water are kept in the Mantapam before the Bangura Vakili.
In this seva the Pancha Suktas and the Pancha Shanthi Mantras are enumerating by the archakas. After that the Thirumanjana Abhishekam is presented to the main deity Sri Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy, Viswaksena and Sri Malayappa Swamy and his consorts.
Mainly this seva is offered to the main deity Sri Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy and the content from kumbham is sprinkled on the feet of Sri Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy.

Where to perform Sahasra Kalasabhishekam?

A devotee can perform this pooja in the tirumala temple premises. It is performed only on Wednesday.

What is the cost of Sahasra Kalasabhishekam?

The pilgrims who wish to be a part of Sahasra Kalasabhishekam seva, they need to book tickets either online through tirumala website or offline. Ticket cost is approximately Rs. 850/- per person. The pilgrim can book for 6 persons at a time.

Rumtek Buddhist Monastery, Sikkim

September 8, 2019, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: North - East Temples Tagged With: Buddha Temples

Rumtek Monastery is a Gompa. It is also known as the Dharma Chakra Centre. This monastery is located at Sikkim, Gangtok. The monastery was originally built in the mid-1700s, under the direction of Changchub Dorje. It is one of the most significant monasteries in Sikkim. The shrine was established to spread the teachings of the Buddha throughout the world.

This monastery is a storehouse of many religious art objects. It also houses some of the world’s most unique religious scriptures. Karma Shri Nalanda Institute for Higher Buddhist Studies, a Buddhist college, is situated opposite to the monastery. The monastery gained its importance after China annexed Tibet because of which many religious gurus relocated from Tibet to Sikkim.

What is the history of Rumtek Monastery?

The Rumtek Monastery was originally built in the mid-1700s, under the direction of Changchub Dorje. This monstery served as the main seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage in Sikkim for some time. However, when the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, in 1959, he found that the monastery was in ruins. Rangjung Rigpe Dorje fleed from Tibet. He then decided to rebuild Rumtek. The construction of the monastery was completed after 4 years.

The 16th Karmapa officially inaugurated the new seat, on Losar in 1966. It was called ‘The Dharmachakra Centre’: a place of erudition and spiritual accomplishment, the seat of the glorious Karmapa.

It is said that the 1st Karmapa spent many years meditating in a cave here. Ten thousand fairies came to congratulate the Karmapa and each offered him a strand of their hair. The Karmapa wore these strands of hair as a black hat. This was passed down and is still worn by the karmapa on ceremonial occasions.

What is the architecture of Rumtek Monastery?

The Rumtek Monastery is a fabulous and piece of work. It has used some of the rarest Buddhist religious artwork in the form of wall murals and thanks.

The Rumtek Monastery is a three-storeyed building. The monastery contains a marvelous main temple. It has a monastic college where the relics of the Sixteenth Karmapa are preserved. The monastery also has a golden stupa and a magnificent Buddha statue.

The main structure of the Monastery has been made in accordance with the traditional designs of the Tibetan monasteries.
The top floor of the monastery has a terrace and also a tiny stupa.
The ground floor of the Monastery has a large prayer hall. The floor is decorated with large hand painted and intricate murals, statues. silk paintings and thankas.
There is a shrine in the main building. The decoration of the shrine is a traditional manner with religious texts.
There are buildings for the monks to live in front of the main monastery.

How to reach Rumtek Monastery?

The Rumtek Monastery is located at a distance of 23 km from Gangtok.

Train: Take a train to Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri (NJP). From there you can drive to Gangtok. It takes around 4-5 hours.

Air: Take a flight to Bagdogra, West Bengal. From there you can drive to Gangtok.

Road: Sikkim is well-connected to all major places via road.

What are the timings of Rumtek Monastery?

The Rumtek Monastery is open for the tourists on all days a week.

The timings are 7:00 am – 7:00 pm.

What is the entry fees of the Rumtek Monastery?

The entry fees of the Monastery is Rs. 10 per person.

What are the festivals observed in the Rumtek Monastery?

There are two festivals that are observed in the Rumtek Buddhist Monastery.

Vajrakilaya Drupchen: This is celebrated on the fifth month of the lunar calendar of Tibet. It pays homage to the Guru Padmasambhava – the most important monk. This festival is celebrated for ten days.
‘Lama’ dance: This traditional and holy dance is performed on the last day. It is a delight to watch the performance.

Pashupatinath Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

July 11, 2022, Sasidhar Darla 10 Comments Filed Under: Muktinath, Nepal Temples Tagged With: Nepal Temples, Shiva Temples

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples of Nepal, present near in the eastern side of Kathmandu valley. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. He is a supreme deity in Nepal and his form of Lord Pashupatinath is said to be the guardian deity of Nepal.

Book Your Travel – Muktinath Pashupatinath Yatra Tour Package

Pashupatinath Temple – Facts

Deity	Lord Pashupatinath (Lord Shiva)
Location	Kathmandu, Nepal
Entry Fee	Free
Tours	Pashupatinath – Muktinath Tour
Timings	4:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Best Time to Visit	September to October

Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu, Nepal – Video

The temple is present on the banks of river Bagmati. Devotees believe that the 12 Jyotirlingas in India are the representations of a body, and the Jyotirlinga at Pashupatinath Temple is the head of that body.

What are the timings of Pashupatinath Temple?

Pashupatinath Temple opens at 4 AM in the morning and closes at 9 PM in the evening. The temple also performs various rituals during this time. The devotees can be a part of these rituals such as aarti and poojas.

Here are the timings of Pashupatinath Temple:

Timings	From	To
Morning Darshan	4:00 AM	12:00 PM
Evening Darshan	5:00 PM	9:00 PM
Aarti Timings	6:00 PM	7:30 PM

The official website of the temple is:
pashupatinathtempletrust.com

What is the significance of Pashupatinath Temple?

Pashupatinath Temple Shiva Linga — There is a row of numerous Shiva Lingams present at this temple.

The significance of Pashupatinath Temple is that, as per beliefs, those who die in this temple are reborn as a human, regardless of any misconduct that could worsen their karma. The exact day of their death is predicted by astrologers of the temple. Hence, it attracts numerous elderly Hindu pilgrims.

It is located on the Western bank of Bagmati and is considered a masterpiece of Hindu architecture. Moreover, only followers of Hinduism can enter the main temple, but all the other buildings are available for foreigners to visit. Another unique feature of this temple is that only 4 priests can touch the idol.

What is the history of Pashupatinath Temple?

Where is Pashupatinath Temple — The picture depicts the Nandi, Lord Shiva’s sacred animal and follower, at the temple premises.

According to the history of the Pashupatinath Temple, since termites destroyed the original building, Lichhavi King Shupuspa reconstructed the temple in the 15th century. However, the temple’s existence dates back to 400 B.C. Over time, countless further temples have been erected around this two -storied temple.

As per Nepal Mahatmaya and Himvatkhanda, the deity here became famous as Pashupati, which means, the lord of all animals.

What are the festivals celebrated at Pashupatinath Temple?

The major festival celebrated at Pashupatinath Temple is:

Mahashivratri: This festival is in the honour of Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that he is the Adi Guru who is the source of the Yogi tradition. Devotees observe it by remembering Shiva and chanting prayers, fasting, doing Yoga as well as meditating.

How to reach Pashupatinath Temple?

Here’s how to reach Pashupatinath Temple:

Air: The nearest airport is Tribhuvan International Airport (2 km away from the temple).
Train: One can reach Raxaul Railway Junction and then avail a bus to Brigunj and then Kathmandu.
Road: Devotees can avail buses from New Delhi to Pokhara, and then to Kathmandu.

Where to stay near Pashupatinath Temple?

Some of the places where one can stay near the temple are:

Hotel Pashupati Darshan: With its location just 1.5 km from the city center and 1.2 km from the airport, this 1-star hotel attracts numerous travelers each year. With its convenient location, the hotel offers easy access to the city’s must-see destinations. For the comfort and convenience of guests, the hotel offers 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour security, daily housekeeping, ticket service.
Palagya Hotel: This 2-star hotel commands an excellent location and provides access to the city’s biggest attractions. The hotel provides 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, Wi-Fi in public areas to ensure our guests the greatest comfort. The hotel’s kids club, garden are ideal places to relax and unwind after a busy day.
Dwarika’s Hotel: Dwarika’s Hotel is just a 10-minute drive away from the city of Kathmandu. It is also close to the Royal Golf Course in Kathmandu Valley. The restaurant serves a 22-course Newari feast and also has Friday night barbecues. With its unique and intricate beauty, the romantic 5-star hotel is ideal for anyone who wants to experience Nepal’s rich and artistic atmosphere.

What are some temples near Pashupatinath Temple?

Pashupatinath to Muktinath Temple — There are several temples near the Pashupatinath Temple.

Some of the temples that one can visit near the temple are:

Muktinath Temple: It is a place of religious importance for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is present in the Muktinath Valley in Mustang, Nepal. As per Hinduism, it is the ‘Mukti Kshetra’ or ‘the place of liberation’ and is among the 108 Divya Desam of the Vaishnava sect. Also, it is one of the oldest temples of Lord Vishnu.
Manakamana Temple: It present in the Gorkha district of Nepal is in dedication to the Hindu Goddess Bhagwati, who is an incarnation of goddess Parvati (Shiva’s consort). Further, ‘Manakamana’ originates from two words, ‘mana’ meaning heart/mind and ‘kamana’ meaning wish, hence meaning ‘the heart’s wish‘.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Pashupatinath Temple open throughout the year?

No, the temple is closed during heavy snowfalls, whcih take place in winters of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Pashupatinath Temple is free of cost.

Can anyone enter the temple?

Only Hindus can enter the temple without any permits.

Is there any online pooja booking facility available?

Yes, please visit the website pashupatinathtempletrust.com for pooja booking.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizens?

Palkis for disabled and senior citizens are available at the temple.

Which is the best season to visit the temple?

Autumn is the best time to visit Pashupatinath. September, October, and November cover autumn. This season is neither too hot nor too cold. The weather is clear and dry and offers an excellent view of the snowcapped mountains in the blue sky. The monsoon rain washed away the pollution and dust. This is the peak season in Nepal.

What is the weather like during summer?

Since this is the rainy season, road tour to Pashupatinath will be difficult. However, this is the best trekking season. June, July and August cover this season.

What are winters like in Kathmandu?

Pashupatinath region is covered by snow in these months. December, January, and February cover these months. It is advised to avoid travelling here during this season.

If you have any questions about the Pashupatinath Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple Guide – Timings, Dress Code, and History

August 29, 2019, Sasidhar Darla 6 Comments Filed Under: Kerala Temples Tagged With: Vishnu Temples

Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple is also known as Sri Muthappan temple which is one of the famous Hindu temples. It is situated on the banks of the Valapattanam river about 10 km away from Taliparamba town in Kannur District of Kerala State. The main deity of worship in the temple is Sree Muthappan that is an indication of 2 mythical characters named Thiruvappana and Vellattam.

Parassini Madappura Sree Muthappan Temple is not a Kshethram but it is a Madappura. Sree Muthappan is always accompanied by a dog.

The ritual performers of Muthappan Theyyam belong to the tribal community of Kerala. It is unique because in Kerala both the upper-caste Brahmins, and the lower-caste tribals have a significant contribution to the major forms of worship. The devotees can interact with God as they pour out their grievances in a chat with the tastefully decorated Muthappan Theyyam.

History and Legend of Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

The Naduvazhi (landlord) Ayyankara Illath Vazhunnavar was unhappy as he had no child. His wife Padikutty Antharjanam was a devotee of Lord Shiva. She offered several things as a sacrifice to the God Shiva. One day in her dream she saw the Lord. The very next day, while she was returning after a bath from a nearby river, saw a pretty child lying in a flower bed. She took the child home and brought him up as her own son.
The boy would take food with the poor and with the backward communities. As these acts were against the Namboothiri way of life, his parents earnestly requested him to stop this practice.
One day the boy went to his parents and shown his parents his divine form (visvaroopam) with bow and arrow and fiery eyes. His parents understood that the boy was not an ordinary child but God.
After revealing himself he left his house and on the way he got associated with toddy. Once a toddy tapper saw him stealing toddy and he tried to attack with his bow and arrow but fell unconscious. Toddy tapper’s wife begged by him to spare his life by calling him Muthappa with respect and since then he came to be known a Muthappan. He made his abode near valapattanam river in Parassinikadavu.
The deity here is an embodiment of the divine powers of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The deity is also known as Thiruvappana and Vellattam. The ritual conducted in this temple is totally different and does not follow the satvik Brahminical form of worship as in other Hindu temples. The customary offerings to appease the deity of this temple are fish, meat and toddy.

Significance of Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

Here dogs are considered sacred and can be seen in large numbers around the temple. Two carved bronze dogs at the entrance of the temple symbolize the bodyguards of the God. The temple is dedicated to Lord Muthappan, believed to be the incarnation of Lord Shiva.
Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple is the only temple in Kerala where the Folk art form of North Kerala ‘Theyyam’ is presented daily. This centre of worship and faith has in store many unique practices and rituals, and the temple architecture itself stands testimony to this aspect.
Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple is also a popular destination for travellers and pilgrims to savour the charm of Theyyam. A ritual that is performed here on a daily basis. Men adorning masks and costumes with a riot of colours perform this temple art form. It represents the conflict between good and evil, with good ultimately emerging victorious.

Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple Timings

Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple starts function from early morning to late night with few breaks in between for rituals to be performed.
Vellattam and Thiruvappana are performed every morning from 5.45 AM to 8 AM. Vellattam are also performed at evening by around 6.30 PM.
Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple remains open from 5 AM to in the morning to 8:00 PM in the evening.

Festivals celebrated at the Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

Puthari Thiruvappana festival

Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple Festival or Utsavam is the main festival celebrated at Parassini Madappura Sree Muthappan Temple. It falls during the Malayalam month of Vrischikam (November end – December half) every year. The Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple Festival starts as per customary rituals at the Madamana Illam in the morning. Also known as Puthari Thiruvappana festival (Parassinikadavu Ulsavam), the Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple festival is related to the harvest celebration of local people. Every year the festival begins on 16th Vrischikam in the traditional Hindu Calendar. During this harvest festival, people celebrate “puthari”. A grand ceremonial feast will be conducted at the temple for devotees.

It is associated with the harvesting season of the region. The last Thiruvappana of the temple year is on 30 Kanni every year.

Thiruvappana is not performed on the following days:

Thulam 1st to Vrischikam 15th every year.
Amaavasi (new moon) day of Karkkitakam and Thulam.
“Nira” day of the temple.
When there is a death in the Madappura family.

Poojas and Rituals at Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

Avoid shirts, skirts, tank tops and so not expose legs. Footwear is not allowed inside the temple. Use of cellphones and photography is strictly prohibited.
The traditional offerings made to Sree Muthappan by devotees are Panamkutty, Vellattam and Thiruvappana. The offerings to the prime priest, Matayan, are Vecheringat (a boiled mixture of banana, pepper, turmeric powder and salt), Neerkari (a mixture of raw rice powder, salt, turmeric powder and pepper), boiled gram, or coconut slices. Toddy and burnt dry fish are also used as offerings.
The deity worshipped in this temple is Sree Muthappan. All the main poojas are performed by the Thiyyas of Parassini Muthappan family. In special cases, Brahmins and Madayans together perform poojas in Sreekovil.
Before entering the main temple one needs to climb down the steps to reach the river and clean the body. After cleaning, enter the inner premises of the temple. Pray before Muthappan and put some money into the box provided.
After having your food, you can go to the office and pay if you have anything to offer. One can pay cash for the same and get a receipt from the counter.

How to reach: Road, Rail and Air

By Air: Karipur International Airport at Kozhikode is the nearest airport. It is about 93 km from Kannur town. Mangalore Airport is about 120 km away.

By Train: Kannur Railway Station is an important railhead in Konkan Railway. It is the nearest railway station about 16 km from the temple.

By Road: Located at a distance of around 20 kilometres from Kannur, the Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple is a very popular pilgrim site and is visited by many devotees on a daily basis. Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple is just 20 km from Kannur town.

Where to stay

Thapasya Heritage

Contact: Opp. AKG Mandiram, Temple Road, Parassinikadavu, Kannur- 670563

Thai Resort

Contact: Nr.Sri Muthappan Temple, Parassinikadavu, Kannur, Kerala 670563

Das Residency

Contact: Parassinikadavu, Kannur, Kerala – 670563

Hotel Well View

Contact: Near Muthappan Temple, Parassinikkadavu, Kannur-670 563, Kerala

Hotel Polariz

Contact: Hotel Polariz, PO Kalliassery, Mangad, Near Snake Park, Kannur -670 562, Kerala

Where to eat

The lane leading to the temple is full of tea shops offering a variety of delicious dishes. Breakfast consists of rice which is light and wholesome; Puttu, a steamed rice flour dish is eaten with coconut scrapings, banana and sugar. Appam is another rice and coconut preparation fermented with toddy and made into a spongy pancake with crispy lacy frills eaten with coconut milk and sugar or Idiyappam. Rice flour pressed through a mould to resemble fine strings and then steamed are some of the dishes offered.
Another popular breakfast item is a rice and dal combination like idli and dosa accompanied by coconut chutney and sambar. Lunch and supper are unpolished rice, fish curry and vegetables. Evening tea is accompanied by the boiled green gram with coconut pieces topped with a plantain. A non-vegetarian delicacy is stewed clams, a shellfish with hinged shell, from Valapattanam river. Food is served on a banana leaf, the tip of the leaf placed to the left of the diner.
Devotes of all castes and beliefs come in hundreds and throng the courtyard. They are given generous quantities of Prasadam or sacred ashes as Muthappan bestows his blessings upon all his devotees.
Parassini Madappura provides free lunch to students from the temple oottuPura, irrespective of caste and religion. Almost all students from Parassinikadavu LP and UP school have their lunch from the Parassini Madappura Oottupura.

Nearby Temples

Sri Rajarajeswara Temple: Rajarajeswara Temple is situated 20 km from Kannur of Kerala state, south India. It is near Taliparamba town, famous for its spices trade. The temple is believed to have got the name from Thiru Shambara or the holy shambara in reverence to Maharishi Shambara. The Shiva Lingam here is believed to be several thousands of years old. The Rajarajeswara temple in Thaliparamba in Kannur district is one of the famous Shiva Temples in Kerala in general and in North Malabar in particular.

Trichambaram Sree Krishna Temple: Trichambaram Krishna Temple is an 11th-century shrine situated at Trichambaram, just 2 km south of Taliparamba in Kannur District. It is 20 km from Kannur on National Highway 17. The temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is one of the best known Krishna temples in Kerala. The temple is of great archaeological importance. The sanctum sanctorum is double storied and has a pyramid-shaped copper roof with a golden stupa (pinnacle) at the top. The sanctum has beautiful carvings and murals which date back to the 15th and 16th centuries.

Kalarivathukkal Temple: Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy Temple, Bhadrakali Shrine located near Valapattanam river. It is the family shrine of Chirakkal Royal Family. The deity of the shrine is the fierce form of Bhadrakali. Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy is considered as the mother of the ancient martial art Kalarippayattu and hence the name. The shrine is administered by Malabar Devaswom Board and classified as Category A Temple of the board. Kalarivathukkal has come from the word Kalari Vaatilkal.

Sabarimala Temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa is also located in the same state of Kerala. It is open for only a few days every month. Check Sabarimala Temple Opening Dates before you visit.