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The ancient Hindu Lokanarkavu temple in Memunda, Kozhikode is more of a temple village rather than a single temple. This ancient temple is associated with several legendary Kalariyapattu heroes and heroines. This is because Thacholi Othenan, the undefeated hero of martial arts, worshipped Goddess Lokanarkavilamma of Lokanarkavu temple. The temple is witness to a unique blend of unyielding tradition and simplicity permeating every corner of this place. This complex has three main temples- the main shrine is dedicated to Goddess Durga, the central temple for Lord Shiva and the northern one for Lord Mahavishnu.
Quick Facts About Lokanarkavu Temple
Location: Kavil Road, Villiapally, Vatakara, Kerala
Timings: 5 AM – 11 AM, 5 PM – 8 PM
Built By: Aryan Vaishya Brahmins
Nearest Railway Station: Vadakara Railway Station (5 km)
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (77 km), Kannur International Airport (55 km)
Best Time To Visit: March- April or November- December
About Lokanarkavu Temple
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
The term Lokanarkavu comes from Lokamalayarkavu meaning a world made up of mountains, rivers and groves. Believed to be about 1500 years old and built by Aryan Vaishya Brahmins, this place is quite renowned for its immense historical significance for Kerala. The temple structures have magnificent wall paintings, murals and wooden sculptures that act as an example of the artistic Keralan heritage. Made with only natural colours, these paintings are said to be drawn in the 15th century. One of the main attractions of this place is the Poorakkali dance form, similar to Kalaripayattu which is performed here.
Suggested Read: Shiva Temples In Kerala
Places To Visit Near Lokanarkavu Temple
1. Janaki Forest
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Also known by the name of Janikkad, Janaki forest is the eco-tourist destination of Kerala. The place is located around 10 km from Peruvannamuzhi Dam, which is another tourist destination in the area. This forest gets its name from the sister of the renowned statesman V.V. Krishna, V.K. Janaki Amma, who owned this land previously. The place has unexplored wilderness along with a huge plant biodiversity. There are tree-top houses from where one can observe the surrounding bird life and enjoy a brush with raw nature.
Top Experiences: rafting, nature walks, ancient temple visit, bird watching
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
2. Chombala Harbor
Photo: Vengolis / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The artificial basin of Chombala Harbor is located just a short distance away from Lokanarkavu temple. The place is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches on the Western Coast by the localities. The cool sea breeze and the soothing sound of waves lapping against the colourful boats make this place a must-visit place of this region. The place is also famous for its fish market and fish auctions.
Suggested Read: Nagaraja Temples In Kerala
3. Sandbanks Beach
Photo: Romazur / Wikimedia Commons
The Sandbanks beach of Vadakara is the place that witnesses the confluence of the Arabian Sea and Kottakal River. Located in the sleepy hamlet of Vadakara, this secluded beach strip of Kozhikode exudes a calm air that allows a person to relax and just enjoy the beautiful sunsets.
Timings: 24*7
4. Urupunyakavu Temple
Photo: Bipinmoodadi / Wikimedia Commons
Counted among the sacred 108 Durga temples of Kerala that were built by Lord Parasurama for the state’s prosperity and well-being, Also known as Oru Punyakavu and Gurupunyakavu, this specific temple was built for the protection of the state from the sea during monsoons. The main deity is Goddess Jaldurga along with lord Ayyappa and Lord Ganesha. Though located on a hilltop, one can witness instant water holes even by digging a foot into the ground.
Timings: 5:30 AM – 9:30 AM, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Suggested Read: Bhadrakali Temples In Kerala
5. Muzhappilangad Drive
Photo: Shagil Kannur / Wikimedia Commons
This drive-in beach located in the Kannur district of Kerala has often been termed as one of the best beaches for driving in the world. This 4 km beachy stretch is located just 7 km from Thalassery and is a haven for adventurers looking to partake in paragliding, power boating, catamaran rides and parasailing. The place is also considered a swimmer’s paradise due to the black rocks protecting the beach from the deep currents of the sea.
Nearest Railway station: Kannur railway station
6. Mahe
Photo: Anjoepaul / Wikimedia Commons
Located at the mouth of the stunning Mahe River, this quaint little city is located just 15 km from Vadakara. One can witness remnants of the city being a French colony once upon a time. One of the famous monuments of this place is the St Teresa’s Church which is considered to be one of the most visited churches in the country and is visited by flocks of people from all religions, especially during Fete De Mahe.
Timings: 5 AM – 8 PM
Suggested Read: Vishnu Temples In Kerala
Where To Stay
Photo: https://www.pexels.com/photo/modern-hotel-room-design-18651506/
There are several hotels, resorts and homestays located near this place. One can choose the appropriate accommodation as per their budget. There is the Queens Tourist Hotel, the North Park, and Gayathri hotels located within 3-4 km from the temple complex. For those looking for budget options, there is the Kalariyullathil homestay located around 8.5 km away from the temple.
Where To Eat
Photo: Augustus Binu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are many eateries and food joints located near the temple complex. Most of them serve delicious traditional South Indian fare in a comforting atmosphere. Some popular ones located in the vicinity are Lokambika Hotel, Aahar Restaurant, Karimbana Restaurant, Tharavadu and many more.
Suggested Read: Kuttichathan Temples In Kerala
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
The temple is at its best during its two festivals- Lokanarkavu utsavam in November- December and Meenam Festival which takes place from March-April. During these festivals, a large number of people gather around the temple to celebrate. Lokanarkavu Utsavam is a 41-day festival that witnesses the performance of Thacholikali dance form which is similar to the traditional martial art form of Kerala, Kalaripayattu.
Standing on lush green land, the Lokanarkavu Temple brings a sense of calmness and serenity to the mind. In fact, the locals consider the temple deity Goddess Durga as their mother rather than a goddess and call her Lokanarkavilamma. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore the beautiful state of Kerala to get a glimpse of the traditional Kerala Architecture.
Cover Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
