Kottappuram Sree Vaikunda Kshetram

Kottappuram Sree Vaikunda Kshetram is a sacred kaavu in Nileshwar, Kottappuram, Kasargod, Kerala, where Theyyam is performed. Find theyyam forms, history, visitor info, and directions.

Location: Nileshwar, Kottappuram, Kasargod

Theyyams performed: 1 ritual forms

About This Temple

The Arudasthanam of Vishnumoorthy Theyyam. According to legend, after Lord Vishnu accompanied his ardent devotee Palanthai Kannan and destroyed the Kuruvat tharavad, he took permanent residence here under the name Vishnumoorthy. The annual Theyyam festival carries forward this foundational myth.

History

Kottappuram Sree Vaikunda Kshetram, also known as Vaikunteshwara Temple, is situated in Kottappuram village in Nileshwar, Kasaragod district.

The temple is the Arudasthanam — the presiding sacred abode — of Vishnumoorthy, the fierce Vaishnava deity of North Malabar. According to tradition, Lord Vishnu, who had accompanied his devotee Palanthai Kannan, was provoked and destroyed the Kuruvat tharavad. From that moment, he took up permanent residence here and came to be worshipped as Vishnumoorthy.

The temple is closely associated with the Vishnumoorthy Theyyam tradition, which is performed in numerous kavus, tharavadus, and temples across Kannur and Kasaragod as a direct extension of the sacred presence established here.

Rituals

• Vishnumoorthy Theyyam: The ritual enactment of Vishnumoorthy, performed by Vannan and Malaya communities, is the central offering of the annual festival.

Visitor Guidelines

• Maintain respectful silence during performances and rituals
• Dress modestly and traditionally
• Remove footwear before entering the sacred space