Alamipally Kallanchira Pathikkal Achimelolamma Devasthan Temple

About this event

Alamipally Kallanchira Pathikkal Achimelolamma Devasthanam in Kanhangad, Kasaragod district, is a traditional sacred centre associated with the Theyyam and Kaliyattam traditions of North Malabar. Located in the Kallanchira area behind the Alamipally bus stand, the shrine is dedicated to Achimelolamma and is also associated with Brahmana Moorthi Theyyam. The annual Kaliyattam is a ritual festival rather than a staged cultural performance, bringing the temple community together through Theyyam, ceremonial observances, music, and worship. The festival is traditionally held over two days on Thulam 12 and Thulam 13 in the Malayalam calendar, usually falling in late October, although the corresponding Gregorian dates vary from year to year. Achimelolamma Theyyam is the principal ritual form associated with the shrine, while Brahmana Moorthi Theyyam is also performed during the festival. Theyyam combines elaborate facial painting, distinctive costumes, headgear, dance movements, drumming, ritual recitation, and ceremonial acts within a sacred setting. During the Kaliyattam, the performer assumes the ritual form of the deity and becomes the focus of devotional interaction, with devotees seeking blessings and participating according to local custom. The shrine itself includes a main chathura sreekovil, along with smaller sacred structures and platforms associated with other forms of regional worship. Such arrangements reflect the distinctive religious landscape of Kasaragod, where kavus, tharavads, village shrines, and temple traditions have preserved a diverse range of ritual practices. The annual gathering is particularly significant for devotees and local families, for whom Theyyam is part of living religious practice rather than simply an artistic presentation. The sounds of traditional percussion and ritual chants, combined with the visual transformation of the performer, contribute to the distinctive atmosphere of Kaliyattam. For visitors interested in Theyyam in Kanhangad and the ritual heritage of Kasaragod, the festival offers an opportunity to observe a locally rooted tradition in its customary sacred environment. Because the event follows the Malayalam calendar, its dates should be checked for the particular year before planning a visit.

🚆 Railway: Kanhangad Railway Station — approximately 2–4 km from the Alamipally/Kallanchira area.

✈️ Airport: Kannur International Airport — approximately 90 km by road; Mangaluru International Airport is also a practical option for the northern Kasaragod region.

🚌 Bus: Regular buses serve Kanhangad and Alamipally; the temple is located behind the Alamipally bus stand on the Kallanchira/Nithyanandasramam South Road.

🏨 Stay: Hotels and lodges are available in Kanhangad, with additional accommodation options around Bekal and nearby areas.

✅ Notes: The annual Kaliyattam is traditionally held on Thulam 12–13, generally in late October. The principal Theyyams associated with the festival are Achimelolamma and Brahmana Moorthi. Festival timings and individual ritual schedules can vary, so visitors should confirm the programme locally before attending.