Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple

Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple or Parassini Madappura Sree Muthappan Temple, which lies on the banks of the Valapattanam River, attracts people from all sections of the society, irrespective of religion or caste, to the district of Kannur. One of the interesting facts is that here dogs are considered to be sacred as it’s the vehicle of Lord Muthappan. One of the most sacred pilgrim sites in north Kerala, the temple provides free meals and accommodation to all visitors. The devotees are given boiled black beans and tea as Prasadam (devotional offering).

It is located about 10 km from Thaliparamba in Kannur District. The deity worshiped in this temple is Sree Muthappan, a personification of two Gods – Thiruvappana (Lord Vishnu) and Vellatom (Lord Shiva), who is said to have fought for the cause of the downtrodden and forsaken his entire life. His life is best portrayed through a traditional dance known as Muthappan Theyyam. Fish and toddy are the customary offerings to Muthappan and they are distributed here. The temple is also famous for Theyyam, a ritual art that is performed here on a daily basis.