Kerala
We’ve compiled the best of the best in Kerala - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
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1. Sree Muthappan Temple
This unusual temple, one of the largest shrines of its type, sits on the bank of the Valapattanam River at Parassinikkadavu, 18 km (11 miles) from Kannur. It's devoted not to a Vedic god, but to Sree Muthappan, a folk deity of the Thiya community. One school of Hindu thought claims that he is a combined manifestation of both Shiva and Vishnu, another believes he is simply another avatar of Shiva in the form of a tribal hunter. Several colorful legends about him exist. Worship does not take the form of paying homage to an idol but to enactment of the lord's life: the temple hosts such Theyyam performances almost every day of the year. Though it's not as colorful as traditional outdoor festivals, you can at least get a taste of this mystical local form of dance. Because Sree Muthappan is usually pictured with a hunting dog, there is a statue in honor of dogs on the premises; friendly mutts roam the sanctuary, and offerings at the shrine take the form of bronze dog figurines. The temple is also unusual for the fact that toddy (fermented palm sap) and fish are both offered to Sree Muthappan. Non-Hindus are allowed to enter the temple but must dress modestly---shoulders and knees should be covered and no footwear is allowed inside.
Off NH–17, Parassinikkadavu, Kerala, 670563, India0497-278–0722Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free, Theyyams usually daily 5:30 am–8:30 am and 6:30 pm–8:30 pm -
2. St. Angelo Fort
In 1505 the Portuguese built St. Angelo Fort, with the consent of the ruling Kolathiri Raja, in order to protect their interests in the area. After passing into Dutch and then British hands, it's now maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. There are still a few British cannons intact, and lovely views of the fishing activity in Moppillah Bay.
Off NH–17,, Kannur, Kerala, India497-273--2578Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free -
3. The Kanhirode Weaver’s Co-operative P&S Society Ltd.
The Kanhirode Weaving Cooperative is strewn with yarns of all colors, set out to dry after dyeing. You can watch the weavers at their giant, clackety-clacking looms, making bedsheets and upholstery for export as well as brightly colored saris. Cloth is available for purchase.
Off Kannur–Mysore Rd., Kannur, Kerala, 670592, India497-285–7865Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free, Closed Sun. -
4. Theyyam
Arts/Performance VenueA unique regional draw is the spectacular dance called Theyyam. More than an art form, it's a type of worship that is tribal in origin and thought to predate Hinduism in Kerala. Theyyams aren't held in traditional temples, but rather in small shrines or family compounds. Dancers don elaborate costumes and terrifying makeup for the ritual dance, during which its believed they become possessed by the spirit of the deity they represent, allowing them to perform such feats as dancing with a 30-foot headdress, a flaming costume, or falling into a pile of burning embers. The ritual is accompanied by intense drumming, howling, and chanting. Theyyam season is from November to May.
, India -
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