Parassinikadavu Muthappan temple is a temple located at Parassinikadavu in Anthoor municipality on the banks of the Valapattanam river about 10 km from Taliparamba and 20 km from Kannur town in Kannur district, Kerala, India.Parassinikadavu temple is listed as top one kannur tourist destinations.

Kannur is home to numerous tourist destinations that showcase the rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance of the region. Here are some notable tourist attractions in Kannur. 

Thiyya community urayima Principal deity of the temple is Sree Muthappan, whose divinity is presented as a ritualistic theyyam enactment in two versions called Thiruvappan and Vellattam. According to the local tradition the presiding deity is a manifestation of Lord Shiva.

 Vellattam and Thiruvappan are the generic names for two types of ‘ Theyyam Ketti-aadal ‘ in the kavu/temples of North Malabar. Vellattom is a minor version of the ritual enactment where the ornaments, decorations and parapharnelia are minimal thanks to which all actions including vaaythari is maximum and Attam will be at its peak.

 If you compare this level of enactment to the idol of a deity in a temple sanctum which is installed as per sathwic sasthra and vedic rituals, Vellattom is at par with the idol alone without the prabha-mandalam which circles it. An easier example is the Seeveli ceremony with only the small idol on top of the elephant. 

Hindu temple dedicated to the deity Muthappan. The history of the temple is steeped in legend and tradition.

Legend has it that a local boy named Muthappan was found floating on the Valapattanam River by a childless couple, and they adopted him. Muthappan is said to have possessed divine powers and performed miracles to help the people in need. Over time, he came to be revered as a deity, particularly among the Theyyam community of Northern Kerala.

The Theyyam ritual is an integral part of the worship at the Parassinikadavu Temple. Theyyam is a traditional dance form where performers, usually men, embody and depict various deities through elaborate costumes, makeup, and rituals. Muthappan is one of the most prominent deities in the Theyyam tradition.

The rates for vazhipad (offerings) at the Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple can vary depending on the type of offering and the specific rituals involved. Typically, the temple administration publishes a list of rates for different vazhipad offerings, which may include items like neyyvilakku (ghee lamps), thulabharam (offering items equal to one’s weight), paalpayasam (sweet rice pudding), vedi vazhipaad (fire pit offerings), and sponsoring Theyyam performances such as thiruvappana and vellattam.

These rates are subject to change and may be adjusted periodically by the temple authorities. It’s advisable for devotees to inquire about the current rates and procedures for vazhipad offerings directly from the temple administration or through official channels. Additionally, specific arrangements for special rituals or offerings may have different rates, and devotees should inquire about these details in advance if they wish to make arrangements for such ceremoni.

Parassinikadavu is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, India, known for its serene backwaters and traditional houseboats. These houseboats, locally known as “kettuvallams,” offer a unique and immersive way to experience the beauty of Kerala’s backwaters. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely cruise along the tranquil waterways, passing by lush greenery, quaint villages, and diverse wildlife.

The Parassinikadavu area is particularly famous for its proximity to the Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple, a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to the deity Muthappan. Many tourists combine a visit to the temple with a houseboat ride to make the most of their experience in this picturesque region.

If you’re considering a visit to Parassinikadavu, exploring the backwaters aboard a traditional houseboat is definitely a must-do activity. It offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Kerala.