- Location: Near Vadakara, Kerala
- Main Deity/Deities: Bhagvathy
- Major Attraction: Carvings and Murals on walls.
- Opening Hours: In morning from 5.00 to 11.00 am, in evening from 5.00 to 8.00 pm.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
Located at Memunda, Lokanarkavu Temple is the family temple for a number of devotees who migrated to Kerala in ancient time. It is the famous festival of North Malabar and is revered by a number of worshippers. The temple was constructed in 5th century as a dedication to goddess Bhagvathy.
Besides the goddess, the other deities that are worshipped are Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. As a visitor, your attention would be automatically drawn towards the rock cut caves that for part of the temple complex. These caves are carved intricately. Mural paintings on the walls are also worth watching.
Festivals
Pooram is the special festival that is celebrated with pomp and show. The week-long celebrations begin with a flag-hoisting ceremony which is called Kodiyettam and ends with Arattu.
Another important festival of Lokanarkavu Temple that you will love to be a part of is Mandala Utsavam. This annual festival continues for 41 days. Artists perform Poorakkali, a folk dance, during the festivities. This dance resembles Kalarippayattu, a martial art.
The temple is also significant to the devotees as it is the place where Thacholi Othenan used to offer his prayers.
- Also Read: Popular Festivals of Kerala
History Behind Temple
The temple was built by Aryans who came to this place about 1500 years ago. The goddess accompanied them to Lokanarkavu in the guise of a woman. Bhagvathy is still revered by the successors of these Aryans who consider her as a god rather than a goddess.
There is also a legend behind Lokanarkavu Festival; it is said that a devotee Kunkkan was assigned the task of tying umbrellas. But during the festivities, he was sidelined by high-class people. He waited for a long time but was not given the opportunity. Kunkkan told his sad saga to Kuttichathan who grew so angry upon hearing his tale that he threw a bunch of hot cold over the stage where festival was being celebrated. This created chaos among the performers and the audience.
Best Time to Visit
Lokanarkavu Temple, situated in the northern region of Kerala, is a historically significant Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. The best time to visit Lokanarkavu Temple is during the Lokanarkavu Festival, which typically occurs in the Malayalam month of Meenam (March-April). During this festival, the temple premises come alive with vibrant processions, traditional performances, and cultural events, providing a fantastic opportunity to witness Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
Weather
The weather around Lokanarkavu Temple is characterized by a tropical climate. The most comfortable time to visit in terms of weather is during the winter months, from November to February. The temperatures during this period are mild, making temple visits and exploring the surrounding areas more enjoyable.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport to Lokanarkavu Temple is Calicut International Airport, approximately 77 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kozhikode Railway Station, located about 54 kilometers from the temple. Trains from major cities in Kerala and other parts of India connect to Kozhikode, and from there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Lokanarkavu Temple.
By Road: Lokanarkavu Temple is well-connected by road. It is approximately 54 kilometers from Kozhikode, and you can easily hire a taxi or take a local bus from there to reach the temple. Local transportation options, such as auto-rickshaws, are also available for a shorter distance commute within the region.
