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Vatakara is a small coastal town in Kozhikode district of Kerala. Vadakara is known as the birth place of Thacholi Othenan - the legendary hero of the Vadakkanpattu (ballads of North Malabar), Vadakara boasts a great martial tradition and was a flourishing trade and commerce centre in ancient times.

Lokanarkavu temple is located 5 kms from Vadakara. The three rock cut caves in the temple premises are artfully engraved with beautiful carvings and fascinating murals. The main temple, according to legend, is more than 1500 years old. The main deity here is Goddess Durga, with two adjacent shrines dedicated to the gods Vishnu and Siva. The annual festival of the temple is called Pooram.

The week-long festival begins with Kodiyettam (flag hoisting) and concludes with Arattu. The temple dedicated to goddess Bhadrakaali has great historical importance as Thacholi Othenan, the legendary martial hero of Kerala, used to worship here every day.

This is the only temple where a peculiar folk dance called Thacholikali is presented during festivals. The dance, performed during the festival resembles the martial art Kalarippayattu. Even today, all Kalarippayattu artists seek the blessings of the deity before their debut.

Getting There

Air : Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode about 23 km from Kozhikode town

Rail : Kozhikode, about 48 km from Vadakara

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