Akkare Kottiyoor Maha Siva Temple
Kottiyoor is one of the most sacred shrines of Shakti. There are very few shrines in India dedicated to Sati Devi, and Kottiyoor is one of them. Since it is forbidden to build any permanent structures at the site due to religious principles, only temporary and simple-looking structures, which resemble the hermitages of sages, are present. As there is no sanctum-sanctorum, Sati is worshipped as Shakti on 'Ammarakkalu Thara', a raised platform adjacent to the Swayambhoo linga, where Sati Devi is believed to have committed suicide. This is believed to be the temple of the origin of the Shakti Peethas. As it is the confluence of the presence of all the known Hindu divinities, the place is called Kottiyoor, from "Koodi" and "Uuru", meaning Meeting Precinct.
The place where the Swayambhoo idol was found is known as Akkara Kottiyoor, in the midst of the waters of the Baavali or Vaavali river. Since the moolasthhaanam is not always accessible, another temple was built in ancient times on the southern side of the Vaavalippuzha. This place is known as Ikkara-Kottiyoor and is located 3 km away. Together, both of these places constitute the Kottiyoor temple.
Location
Kottiyoor
Main Deity
Goddess Shakti
Other Deities
Goddess Parvathi, Sree Porkkali Bhagavathi (Bhadrakaali).
Festivals
The Vaishakha Mahothsavam held for 27 days from Chothi nakshatram (star) of Malayalam month Idavam to Chithra nakshatram (star) of Malayalam month of Mithunam.
Main Offerings
Neyyamruth Abhishekam, Elaneer Abhishekam, Appam, Sharkara Payasam, Pushpaanjali, Koovala Maala, Jalaabhishekam and Kalasaabhishekam
How To Reach
By Air: Kannur International Airport is situated 44.3 KM from the Temple.
By Rail: Thalasssery Railway Station is situated 55.7 KM from the Temple.
By Road: Mananthavady KSRTC Bus Stand is situated 23.8 KM from the Temple.