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Kottanachery Temple - Payyanur: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva

01 Sep, 2025
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Kottanachery Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the village of Vellur, near Payyanur in Kannur district of Kerala, India. The temple is one of the most important Shiva temples in North Malabar region and is known for its ancient architecture and beautiful surroundings.

The temple is believed to have been built in the 12th century by the Kolathiri kings of North Malabar. The temple complex consists of a main shrine, a sub-shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha, a Nalambalam (outer courtyard), and a Koothambalam (theater). The main shrine is a rectangular structure with a gopuram (entrance tower) at the eastern end. The sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of Lord Shiva, which is made of black granite.

The temple is known for its annual festival, which is celebrated in the month of Kumbham (February-March). The festival attracts thousands of devotees from all over Kerala. The temple also hosts a number of other cultural and religious events throughout the year.

 

How to reach Kottanachery Temple

Kottanachery Temple is located about 10 km from Payyanur town. The nearest railway station is Payyanur Railway Station, which is about 5 km from the temple. The nearest airport is Kannur International Airport, which is about 65 km from the temple.

 

Things to do near Kottanachery Temple

  • Visit the Payyanur Beach: Payyanur Beach is a beautiful beach located about 5 km from Kottanachery Temple. The beach is known for its clean sand and clear water.
  • Visit the Payyanur Fort: Payyanur Fort is a historical fort located about 5 km from Kottanachery Temple. The fort was built by the Kolathiri kings of North Malabar in the 16th century.
  • Visit the Ezhimala Hills: Ezhimala Hills is a hill range located about 10 km from Kottanachery Temple. The hill range is known for its scenic beauty and historical significance.
  • Visit the Ananthapura Lake Temple: Ananthapura Lake Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located about 15 km from Kottanachery Temple. The temple is located in the middle of Ananthapura Lake and is accessible by boat.

 

Tips for visiting Kottanachery Temple

  • The best time to visit Kottanachery Temple is during the annual festival, which is celebrated in the month of Kumbham (February-March).
  • The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
  • The temple dress code is strict. Men are required to wear dhothis or mundus and women are required to wear sarees or churidars.
  • Photography is not allowed inside the temple complex.
  • There are a number of restaurants and hotels located near Kottanachery Temple.
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