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References

Tourist Attractions in Malappuram

The main tourist attractions in Malappuram are the Thirunavaya, Thirumandhamkunnu Temple, Jama-at Mosque, Sree Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple, Thunchan Memorial, Nilambur, Tanur, Kottakkal, Kadalundi Bird sanctuary, Kottakunnu and Ponnani.

Thirunavaya

Thirunavaya is situated on the banks of the river Bharathapuzha. This place was one of the venues for Mamangam, a grand assembly of the rulers of Kerala, that is held once in every 12 years. This extravagant festival was conducted for the last time in 1766. Today, the annual Sarvodaya Mela is held in Thirunavaya. The Thirunavaya Navamukunda Temple is also a famous pilgrim centre. During Karkidakavavu, people gather on the banks of the Bharathapuzha river to perform the pithrukriya for the departed souls.

Thirumandhamkunnu Temple

Thirumandhamkunnu Temple is dedicated to the goddess Durga. This is an important pilgrimage centre in Malappuram. The Pooram festival is celebrated here in the month of April that attracts large number of devotees. A unique custom here is the arrival of Vellatbiru in the Pooram ground to give audience to the Malayankutty, the headman of the Pana tribal community. Kalampatu is an important offering here. Mangalya pooja, Rigvda laksharachana and Chandattam are other important poojas.

Jama-at Mosque

The Jama-at Mosque is an important pilgrimage centre of the Muslims in Kerala. Nercha, the four day annual festival is celebrated at the mosque in April. Adjoining the mosque is the mausoleum of the Malappuram Shabeeds (martyrs) whose brave exploits have been immortalized in the Mappils ballads.

Sree Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple

Sree Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple is dedicated to Kirathaparvathi. There is no idol in this temple. Poojas are performed at a hole (about 6 cm in diameter) into which the goddess is said to have disappeared after showing her presence to Adi Sankaracharya. One of the important feature is the Poomoodal, offering of flowers of thecchi (Ixora indica). Mutturakkal is another offering made by breaking coconuts.

Thunchan Memorial, Tirur

Thunchan Memorial in Tirur is the birth place of Thunchath Ezhuthachan, the father of the Malayalam language. On Vijayadasami Day, many people gather here for vidyarambham, the ceremony in which children are initiated into learning. The iron stylus with which Ezhuthchan wrote his texts on palm leaves and the ancient kanjira tree under which he composed his poems are also treasured here.

Nilambur

Nilambur is the original home of the Cholainaickans, the oldest aboriginal tribe of Kerala. The extensively forested land is well known for Canoli’s Plot, the world’s oldest teak plantation and bamboo woods. Another attraction in Nilambur is the Vettakkorumakan Temple. The Nilambur Pattu festival is held here which includes the singing of hymns by the members of the Royal Family along with the tribals of Nilambur. Adyanapara is situated 15 km away from Nilambur and is famous for its waterfalls and the splendour of its lush jungles.

Tanur

The small coastal fishing town of Tanur was one of the earliest settlements of the Portugese. It is believed that St. Francis Xavier visited the place in 1546. About 3 km south of Tanur town is Keraladeshapuram Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Kerala.

Kottakkal

Kottakal is small town and home of the famous Kottakkal Arya Vaidyashala, one of the pioneer institutions of Ayurveda in Kerala. Kottakkal Arya Vaidyashala was founded in 1902 by Vaidyaratnam PS Warrier and has branches all over the state as well as in Delhi and Madras. It is one of the best Ayurvedic centres in the State and runs an Ayurvedic research centre, a nursing home and a hospital. The Chief physician can be consulted only by appointment made at least 10 days in advance.

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary

The Kadalundi Bird sanctuary is spread over a cluster of islands in a scenic area and surrounded by hillocks. A hillock which is 200 m above sea level provides a splendid view of the river mouth and the sea. In this sanctuary, the different varieties of native birds and over 60 varieties of migratory birds can be seen in large numbers. The place is also known for wide variety of fish, mussels and crabs.

Kottakunnu

Kottakunnu is located near the District Collectorate in Malappuram. In this place, one can see traces of an old fort at the crest of the Cantonment Hill. The fort was the first fort built by the Zamorins of Kozhikode. The Vettakkorumakan Temple and the Siva Temple with the famous murals of Malabar can be seen nearby.

Ponnani

Ponnani is the only port in the district, and an important fishing centre. During the month of February, thousands of migratory birds arrive here. Biyyan Kayal, a placid, green fringed waterway with watersports facility is located near Ponnani. Padinharekara Beach is located at the end of the Tipu Sultan road near Ponnani. This beach offers a breathtaking view of the confluence of the Bharathapuzha, the Tirur Puzha and the Arabian Sea.