Kottiyoor Temple, Hindu temple in Kannur district, India
The sanctuary at Kottiyoor stands on the southern slope of Mount Paithal, between tall trees and a river that flows year-round. The complex includes several buildings with pillared halls, open courtyards and covered areas where pilgrims gather and pray.
Scholars and hermits are said to have chosen this site for religious gatherings many centuries ago. The structures grew over time as visitor numbers increased and new spaces were needed for rituals.
This site combines Hindu devotion with elements from local folklore, including masked performances common in parts of Kerala. Worshippers purify themselves in the river before entering the inner areas, a custom practiced at many South Indian shrines.
Access involves narrow forest paths that can become slippery during heavy rain, so sturdy footwear is advisable. Visitors should allow extra time because the distance between parking and prayer rooms requires several minutes of walking.
Ceremonies use stones from the riverbed, regarded as symbols of divine power and returned to their original location after each festival. Some rituals occur only once a year when water levels are low enough to reach certain riverbank areas.
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