Nestled in the dense green forests of Kannur district, the Kottiyoor Temple is unlike any other — it’s not just a temple, it’s a divine pilgrimage experience. This ancient Shiva temple is split into two shrines: Akkare Kottiyoor (temporary shrine on the eastern bank) and Ikkare Kottiyoor (permanent shrine on the western bank) of the Vavali River.
The temple is mainly famous for its 41-day annual Kottiyoor Utsavam, usually held during May–June (Vaishakam to Mithunam months), which attracts thousands of devotees. It’s a sacred spot believed to be linked to Daksha Yagam and the place where Sati Devi immolated herself. Lord Shiva is worshipped here in the form of Swayambhu (self-manifested) Shivalinga amidst natural surroundings.
🔱 Kottiyoor Temple Vazhipadu Timings (2025)
Unlike other temples, Kottiyoor Temple is open only seasonally — especially during the annual pilgrimage period. The Akkare Kottiyoor shrine opens only during this Utsavam and remains closed for the rest of the year.
🪔 Vazhipadu (Offerings) Timings:
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Morning Poojas & Offerings: 4:30 AM to 10:30 AM
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Evening Offerings: 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM
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These are the usual slots when you can book and perform special offerings (Vazhipadu) during the 41-day festival.
🔖 Common Vazhipad Offerings:
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Neyyabhishekam (Ghee Abhishekam)
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Vilakkum Mala (Garland of lamps)
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Appam Nivedyam
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Tender Coconut Offering
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Ellu (Sesame) Abhishekam
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Rudrabhishekam (on select days)
🌿 All offerings must be booked in advance from the temple counter near Ikkare Kottiyoor or through authorized agents during the Utsavam season.
📆 Kottiyoor Temple Festival 2025 Dates (Expected)
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Festival Start (Neyyattam): Around 25 May 2025
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Festival End (Thrikkalashaattu): Around 4 July 2025
🗓️ The exact dates depend on the Malayalam calendar and will be updated by the Devaswom Board.
🎫 How to Book Vazhipadu
Currently, there is no online booking system, and all Vazhipadu (pooja offerings) are:
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Booked offline at the temple Vazhipadu counter.
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It’s advised to arrive early morning, especially on Monday, Shivaratri, and Sankramam days, to avoid long queues.
🙋♀️ FAQs – Kottiyoor Temple Vazhipadu Timings
• When can I offer pooja at Kottiyoor Temple?
→ During the annual Utsavam season (May–July), morning: 4:30 AM–10:30 AM, evening: 4:30 PM–7:00 PM.
• Is Kottiyoor Temple open year-round?
→ No, only the Ikkare Kottiyoor is accessible year-round for basic poojas. Akkare Kottiyoor opens only during the 41-day Utsavam.
• What are popular Vazhipads at Kottiyoor Temple?
→ Neyyabhishekam, Vilakkum Mala, Appam Nivedyam, Tender Coconut, Rudrabhishekam.
• Can I book Vazhipadu online?
→ No, only offline booking is available at the temple counter during the Utsavam.
• When is the Kottiyoor Utsavam in 2025?
→ Likely from 25 May to 4 July 2025 (based on Malayalam calendar).