Kottiyur is a scenic village in Kannur with rich cultural as well as epic heritage which is not less than a treasure. Set on either embankment of the sacred Vavali river, the village is contained in the dense canopy of Western Ghats. The name- Kottiyur- is written in the fables using golden letters. With so many myths mystifying this village, it will be one of a kind experience for anyone who visits this place. Regarding the name of this village, it was derived from the regional words Koodi and Ooru which means meeting and region respectively.
Kottiyur is prominent in the tourism map for the following reasons:
1. Wildlife Sanctuary- Kottiyoor boasts the 23rd Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala, which is adjacent to the Bandipur National Park in Karnataka.
2. Kottiyoor Temple- Famous pilgrimage center and a host for the grand festival called ‘Kottiyoor Vysakha Mahotsavam’ which attracts thousands of devotees every year
3. Trekking- This spot, including Neendunokki, Palukachiyamala, and Kelakam, is as popular as Kerala among trekkers. As it is the eastern hill portion of Kannur, this is an abode of rare butterflies, birds, etc. Biologists, researchers, nature darlings, leisurely visitors- much of the categories of tourists prefer this place while on a visit to Kannur.
Epic
As per mythology, Kottiyur was the platform for Daksha Yaga. Local lore says that Sati Devi- a reincarnation of Parvathi, wife of Lord Siva- immolated herself here. All the way she traveled to reach Daksha Yaga, got unique names relating to her conditions.
Manathana- The place where she felt sad because of the absence of Lord Siva
Kanneer char- The place where she cried
Aayothumchal- Place where Sati Devi tired and rested
Kelakam- The place from where she was provided an ox
Neendunokki- Where she got overlook of Yaga Shala
Chungakunnu- Where she paid tax to enter
Mandhemcheri- Where she walked slowly
Murchilakadu- Where she fell fainted
Also a temple namely “Mutherikavu” is there- which boasts the sword which decapitated Daksha.
Getting There:
Nearest railway station: Thalassery 60 km
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport
