Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple

The Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple is located on the banks of the Valapatnam River and attracts people from all parts and sections of the society. Irrespective of religion and caste, thousands of devotees throng the place. This temple truly signifies the essence of "Vasudaiva Kutumbakam- the whole world is one family." It is located 20 km away from Kannur. The origin of the Muthappan temple is associated with the appearance of a child who roamed the region and was believed to the sole presence for a string of interesting incidents. He later vanished without leaving a trace. Theses incidents up to the point of his disappearance made the people feel the divine presence of Muthappan which is another name for Lord Siva. The people of Kannur immediately set up a place of worship and this place came to be popularly known as the Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple. This temple is also a popular destination for pilgrims interested in Theyyam which is a ritual that is performed here on a daily basis. Men adorning masks and colorful costumes perform this temple art form, which represents conflict between good and evil, with good ultimately emerging victorious over evil. The annual festival which falls on the 1st of December draws a number of pilgrims to this temple. It is customary to offer toddy, fish and meat as 'nivedyams' to this deity.