Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple
One of the largest and divine pilgrim centers in northern Kerala, Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple or Parassini Madappura Sri Muthappan Temple is a prestigious pilgrim tourism spot for the entire state. Set on the banks of the Valapattanam River, the temple has a curious yet unique custom of treating dogs as sacred because, as per the fables dogs are the vehicles of Lord Muthappan- the deity of this temple. Devotees are not categorized in terms of caste or religion here, hence the temple is an icon of the harmony of mankind.
The temple welcomes each of the visitors wholeheartedly and arranges free food and stay for them. The main prasadam given to devotees here is boiled black beans and tea. And the customary offerings that devotees make here are fish and toddy which are again distributed here. Among the traditional arts, Theyyam is given priority here and its performance occurs here almost every day.
Getting there:
Nearest railway station: Kannur, about 20 km away
Nearest airport: Kannur International Airport, about 35 km