Kozhikode, also called Calicut, is a beautiful city in Kerala, South India. It was once the capital of the Zamorin rulers and is the largest city in North Kerala. Famous for its history, beaches, and greenery, Kozhikode also has many stunning temples worth visiting. Let’s explore seven special temples that will make your trip to Kozhikode more memorable.
Kozhikode’s Divine Destinations: Key Information
| Temple Name | Main Deity | Best Known For | Timings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thiruvannur Siva Temple | Lord Shiva | Former Jain temple with unique architecture | 5:00-9:00 AM, 5:30-7:30 PM |
| Tali Shiva Temple | Lord Shiva | One of the oldest temples with beautiful murals | 4:30-11:00 AM, 5:00-8:00 AM |
| Valayanad Devi Temple | Goddess Bhagavathy | Family deity of Zamorins with four gopurams | 5:00 AM-12:00 PM, 5:30-8:00 PM |
| Azhakodi Devi Temple | Goddess Bhadrakali | Seven maternal incarnations | 5:00-11:00 AM, 5:00-8:00 PM |
| Pisharikavu Temple | Goddess Bhagavathy | Ancient mural paintings and wooden carvings | 5:30 AM-12:00 PM, 5:30-8:00 PM |
| Chendamangalam Temple | Lord Ayyappa | Known as second Sabarimala with Dhwaja Prathishta | 6:00 AM-8:00 PM |
| Lokanarkavu Temple | Goddess Durga | Famous for Pooram festival | 5:00-11:00 AM, 5:00-8:00 PM |
1. Thiruvannur Siva Temple
This temple has a very interesting history. Built in 1044 AD, it was originally a Jain temple! Later, during the 11th century, the Zamorin rulers changed it into a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Highlights:
- The prayer room (garbhagriha) looks like an apse (curved wall area)
- Beautiful Chola pillars and decorative elements called pilasters, panjaras, and kalamukhas
- No entry fee
- Easy to reach from Kozhikode railway station by taxi
2. Tali Shiva Temple
If you love old temples, you’ll enjoy this one. Built in the 14th century by the Zamorin rulers, this temple honors Lord Shiva. Many locals believe that the city’s wealth and success are connected to this temple’s holiness.
Highlights:
- Said to be built where Saint Parasuram placed the main idol
- The walls have beautiful paintings showing stories from Hindu epics
- Hosts Revathi Pattathanam, a yearly seminar in October-November
- Located in the city center near Mananchira
- No entry fee
3. Valayanad Devi Temple
This temple was built to honor Goddess Bhagavathy, who was the family goddess of the Zamorin rulers. The story goes that they built it after losing a battle with Valluva Konathiri.
Key features:
- Four tower gateways called gopurams
- A Saktheya temple where rituals follow Rurujit worship style
- Home to idols of Shiva, Thevaara Bhagavathi, Lord Ayyappa, and Vigneswara
- Free entry
- Can reach by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or bus
4. Azhakodi Devi Temple
Located in Thiruthiyad, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. It’s run by the Malabar Devaswom Board and is famous for its festivals.
Highlights:
- Seven mother goddess forms: Brahamani, Kowmari, Varahi, Vaishanavi, Indrani, Chamundi, and Maheshwari
- A special Shiva idol showing the god’s Tandava dance
- Celebrations like Kodiyettam, Pallivetta, and Arrattu
- Just 1.5 km from Mofussil bus stand
- Free entry
5. Pisharikavu Temple
About 30 km from Kozhikode city, this beautiful temple honors Goddess Bhagavathy and Lord Shiva. It’s believed that the trading community (Vaisya) helped build this temple.
Highlights:
- Detailed wooden carvings throughout the temple
- Some of Kerala’s oldest mural paintings
- Special rituals like Niramalya, Udayasthama pooja, Pal Payasam, and Valia vattala guruthi
- Free entry
- Can reach by taxi from Calicut airport or railway station
6. Chendamangalam Temple
This temple in Chords area is special because it honors Lord Ayyappa. It’s known as the “second Sabarimala” and is one of the few temples with Dhwaja Prathishta (a special flag installation).
Special features:
- Home to other gods like Ganesha, Annapurneshwari, and Vishnu
- Still promotes traditional Indian art forms during festivals
- Open from early morning until evening
- Free entry
- Can reach by bus or taxi from Ernakulam Railway Station
7. Lokanarkavu Temple
Located in North Malabar region, this popular temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. It’s connected to Thacholi Othenan, a legendary martial arts hero from Kerala.
Key Highlights:
- The Pooram festival that starts with Kodiyettam (flag hoisting) and ends with Arattu
- One of the most visited temples in all of Kozhikode
- Free entry
- 5 km from Vadakara railway station or 87 km from Calicut Airport
Planning Your Temple Visit
Best time to visit: Most Kerala temples are best visited in the cooler months between October and March. Many have special festivals during this time too.
What to wear:
- Men: Traditional dhoti or pants with shirt/kurta
- Women: Saree, salwar kameez, or modest dress
- Some temples may not allow Western-style clothes
Temple Protocols:
- Remove shoes before entering
- Stay quiet and respectful
- Don’t take photos inside (unless specifically allowed)
- Follow instructions from temple staff