Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple

Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple stands on the Valapattanam River, roughly 20 km from Kannur. Its deity, Sri Muthappan, is held to combine aspects of Thiruvappana (Vishnu) and Vellattam (Shiva). In place of the Brahmanical rites followed in most Kerala temples, worship here centres on Theyyam, the ritual art of North Kerala, and the shrine admits devotees of every caste and religion.

Theyyam is performed daily, with costumed performers taking on Muthappan's form; devotees address them directly and treat the replies as the deity's own words. Dogs are regarded as Muthappan's sacred companions and are respected on the premises. The building follows the kavu style, with sloping roofs, wood carving and open courtyards, and steps lead down to the river for offerings. Festivals, especially the harvest festival, draw large crowds.