Theruvath Sree Arayil Bhagavathy Temple - Theyyam

About this event

Kanhangad Theruvath Sree Arayil Bhagavathy Devalayam is a traditional sacred grove and temple in Theruvath, Kanhangad, Kasaragod district, associated with the ritual traditions of North Malabar. Dedicated to Arayil Bhagavathy, the shrine also has sacred spaces associated with other deities, reflecting the diverse traditions of Theyyam worship found across Kasaragod and Kannur. The temple is particularly notable for its annual Theyyam, Thira and Kaliyattam celebrations, during which the shrine becomes a centre of ritual performance and devotional activity. Kerala Tourism’s Dance of the Divine documentation identifies Padaveeran, Moovalankuzhi Chamundi, Vishnumoorthy, Chooliyar Bhagavathy and Gulikan among the Theyyams performed at the temple. These ritual performances are an integral part of the religious traditions of the region, rather than simply stage entertainment. Theyyam performers appear in elaborate costumes, colourful facial designs and distinctive headgear, accompanied by traditional percussion and ritual chants. Devotees gather to witness the performances, offer prayers and receive blessings according to the customs associated with each deity. The interaction between the performer and devotees is an important part of the ritual, giving the festival a strong devotional and community character. The annual celebration is traditionally associated with Thulam 16–17 in the Malayalam calendar, generally falling in the first half of November. Kerala Tourism’s published Theyyam calendar gives these dates as the approximate festival period, although visitors should confirm the current year's programme locally before planning a visit. The temple’s importance also lies in its representation of the living ritual culture of North Malabar, where sacred groves, ancestral traditions and Theyyam remain closely connected with community life. The surrounding Kanhangad region is widely recognised by Kerala Tourism for its strong association with Theyyam and other folk arts. Visitors interested in Theyyam, Kerala temple festivals and the traditional cultural heritage of Kasaragod can experience the distinctive atmosphere of a local kaliyattam here when the festival is being conducted. Because these are sacred rituals, visitors should observe the customs of the temple, follow instructions from organisers and avoid treating the performances as ordinary entertainment. Kanhangad Theruvath Sree Arayil Bhagavathy Devalayam therefore offers an opportunity to experience one of North Kerala’s living ritual traditions in its original religious setting, where devotion, performance, music and community participation continue to come together.

🚆 Railway: Kanhangad Railway Station is the nearest major railway station; the temple is in the Kanhangad–Theruvath area.

✈️ Airport: Mangaluru International Airport is the nearest major airport; Kanhangad is approximately 90 km from the airport area.

🚌 Bus: Theruvath is accessible by local road connections from Kanhangad town and the Alamipally area. Kanhangad has regular bus connections with other parts of Kasaragod and northern Kerala.

🏨 Stay: Hotels, lodges, homestays and other accommodation options are available in Kanhangad and the surrounding area.

✅ Notes: The annual Theyyam–Thira–Kaliyattam is traditionally held around Thulam 16–17, usually in the first half of November. Kerala Tourism lists Padaveeran, Moovalankuzhi Chamundi, Vishnumoorthy, Chooliyar Bhagavathy and Gulikan among the Theyyams performed here. Festival dates and performance timings can vary, so check the current local schedule before visiting.