Lokanarkavu Temple – ലോകനാർകാവ് ക്ഷേത്രം

The Lokanarkavu Temple is an old Hindu temple found 4 km away from Vatakara, in the Kozhikode District of Kerala, in South India. “Lokanarkavu” means “a world made of mountain, river, and grove.” The closest train station is in Vatakara, just 5 km from the temple. The nearest airport is Kannur Airport, which is 50 km away. A big festival here is called Lokanarkav Pooram, and it’s a big deal! It lasts a whole week and starts with raising a flag and ends with a special ceremony called Arattu. This temple is special because a brave hero named Thacholi Othenan used to come here to pray every day. He’s a kalari payattu (Kerala martial art) hero from Kadathanad stories!

History of Lokanarkavu Temple

The Lokanarkavu temples are unique because they house three principal deities – Vishnu, Parasakthi, and Siva – each in separate temples within the compound. The Vishnu temple is believed to be around 2000 years old, with a distinct feature of the Vishnu idol standing with the right foot forward, sanctified by Lord Parasurama. Over time, the temple’s significance diminished with the construction of the Bhagavathi temple adjacent to it. The Bhagavathi temple, around 1300 to 1500 years old, became increasingly prominent, especially during the Pooram festival, a week-long celebration starting with flag hoisting and concluding with Arattu.

The Parasakthi temple holds historical importance as it was worshipped by migrant businessmen called Nagariks, originally from Sindh, who settled in Kerala for trade. Legend has it that they faced accusations and a curse, leading them to relocate to Memunda, where they were warmly welcomed, and the goddess found her new abode. Over time, the temple’s administration shifted to the ruling family of Kadathanadu, despite the Nagariks’ decline in influence. However, their traditions are still honored in the temple. The Siva temple, established about 300-400 years ago, symbolizes the harmony between the principal deities.

The Bhagavathi temple reveres Lokambika in three forms – Saraswathi in the morning, Lakshmi at noon, and Bhadrakali in the evening. Notable figures like Thacholi Othenan, known for his martial arts prowess, and Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar, a renowned musician, were devoted to the temple. Othenan hailed from Meppayil, near Lokanarkavu, while Chembai spent his formative years in the temple’s courtyards, learning music.

Despite changes in administration and societal shifts, the temple continues to be a revered symbol of faith and tradition in Kerala’s cultural landscape.

Different Gods Worshiped in Lokanarkavu Temple

Vishnu Temple at Lokanarkavu:

This temple is the oldest among the three. It might be around 2000 years old. What’s special is the Vishnu idol – it’s rare because it stands with the right foot forward. Legend says Lord Parasuram consecrated the Vishnu idol there.

Bhagavathi Temple at Lokanarkavu:

This temple worships Bhagavathi or Lokambika in three forms – Saraswathi in the morning, Lakshmi at noon, and Bhadrakali in the evening. Bhagavathi is one of four Ambikas, which is a universal belief.

Shiva at Lokanarkavu:

The Shiva temple was established about 300-400 years ago with the agreement of the Nagariks and Kadathanad Raja, between the Vishnu and Bhagavathi temples. The Shivalinga here was brought from a ruined temple elsewhere.

Dress Code of Lokanarkavu Temple

Pants are strictly not allowed inside temple sanctum.

Visitors are kindly requested to refrain from wearing pants inside the temple premises, as it is considered inappropriate attire for the sacred space. Instead, traditional attire such as mund (dhotis) or saris for men and women respectively is encouraged to maintain the sanctity and cultural significance of the temple.

Bhagavathi Pooja in Lokanarkavu Temple and their Fees

How to Reach Lokanarkavu Temple

Address: Lokanarkavu Temple, Sidhasamaj (Post)

Vadakara, Kozhikode, Pin 673104

Nearest Railway Station: Vadakara Railway station, about 5 km

Nearest Airport:

Calicut International Airport, about 77 km

Kannur International Airport, about 50 km

Lokanarkavu Temple Contact Number

Chairman: +919447929998

Executive Officer: +919895403358

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Lokanarkavu Temple

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