Kottiyoor Temple in Kerala is renowned Varanasi of the South. It is one of the most famous and oldest temples of Kerala. The temple is also known as Vadakkeshwaram Temple. Locals call it Ikkare Kottiyoor Temple as the temple is situated on the western bank of Bavali river close to the Kottiyoor village. Keralites consider a pilgrimage trip to Kottiyoor Temple very auspicious.
The shiva linga in the temple is believed to be swayambhu. This linga is placed on 'Manithara'. Close by is another heap known as the 'amarakkallu' where Goddess Parvati is worshipped. Mythology states that the place where 'amarakkallu' is placed is where Goddess Parvati committed suicide after being humiliated by her father's acts of insulting Lord Shiva. Hence, it is also the origin of Shakti Peethas.
It is one of the rare temples in India where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are worshipped together.
Kottiyoor Vysakha Mahotsavam is the prime festival celebrated in Kottiyoor Temple. Like other yearly pilgrimages – Sabarimala and Kumbh Mela, the Kottiyoor Vysakha Mahotsavam is known as Kottiyoor Utsavam and is a prevalent one. It is a 27-days long festival, during which the temple is closed.