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{{Copyedit|date=April 2007}} {{more citations needed|date=October 2018}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2020}}
<!-- See ] for details -->
{{Infobox Indian Jurisdiction | {{Use Indian English|date=September 2018}}
{{Infobox settlement
native_name = Vadakara |
| name = Vatakara
type = city |
| native_name =
latd = | longd = |
| native_name_lang =
state_name = Kerala |
| other_name = Vadakara, Badagara
district = ] |
| settlement_type = Municipality
leader_title = |
| image_alt =
leader_name = |
| image_skyline = Vadakara aerial view.jpg
altitude = |
| image_caption = a sky view of vadakara byepass area
population_as_of = 2001 |
| nickname = Kadathanad Vadakkarakkar
population_total = 75,740|
| image_map = Vatakara Lok Sabha Constituency.jpg
population_density = |
| map_alt =
area_magnitude= sq. km |
| map_caption =
area_total = |
| pushpin_map = India Kerala#India
area_telephone = 0496 |
| pushpin_label_position = right
postal_code =673101 |
| pushpin_map_alt =
vehicle_code_range = |
| pushpin_map_caption = {{Multiple image
sex_ratio = |
| image1 =
unlocode = |
}}
website = |
| coordinates = {{coord|11|34|2|N|75|36|2|E|display=inline,title}}
footnotes = |
| subdivision_type = Country
| subdivision_name = India
| subdivision_type1 = ]
| subdivision_name1 = ]
| subdivision_type2 = ]
| subdivision_name2 = ]
| established_title = <!-- Established -->
| established_date =
| founder =
| named_for =
| government_type = Municipality
| unit_pref = Metric
| area_footnotes =
| area_rank =
| area_total_km2 = 23.33
| elevation_footnotes =
| elevation_m =
| population_total = 75,295
| population_as_of = 2011
| population_rank =
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_demonym = Vadakarakkaran
| population_footnotes = <ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/pca/SearchDetails.aspx?Id=672151|title=Census of India: Search Details}}</ref>
| demographics_type1 = Languages
| demographics1_title1 = Official
| demographics1_info1 = ], English
| timezone1 = ]
| utc_offset1 = +5:30
| postal_code_type = ]
| postal_code = 673101
| area_code_type = Telephone code
| area_code = 0496
| registration_plate = KL-18
| blank1_name_sec1 = ] constituency
| blank1_info_sec1 = Vadakara
| blank2_name_sec1 = Nearest Airport
Kannur International Airport
| blank2_info_sec1 =
| blank3_name_sec1 = ]
| blank3_info_sec1 = Vadakarakkaran
| website =
| iso_code = ]
| footnotes =
| official_name =
| leader_party = CPIM
| leader_name = K K MURALIDHARAN (MP)
| leader_name1 = K.K REMA-MLA
}} }}
'''Vatakara''' is a small coastal town in ] of ], a ] ] in ]. It is the administrative centre of a municipal corporation of the same name.


'''Vatakara''', ({{IPA-ml|ʋɐɖɐgɐɾɐ|lang}}), (formerly '''Badagara''', {{langx|fr|'''Bargaret'''}}) is a Municipality, Taluk and a major town in the Kozhikode district of ] state, ]. The municipality of Vatakara covers an area of {{cvt|23.33|km2}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.vadakaramunicipality.in/about|title=ആമുഖം {{!}} Vadakara Municipality|website=www.vadakaramunicipality.in|language=ml|access-date=2018-11-16}}</ref> and is bordered by ] to the north and ] to the south. It is the headquarters of Vatakara ], which consists of 22 ]. During the reign of the ] and ], Vatakara was known as ]. During the ], it was part of the ] region of ] in the state of ].<ref>{{citation|title=Kadathanad Royal Dinasty| date=August 2009 |url=http://kadathanadrajahs.blogspot.com/2009/08/kadathanad-rajahs.html?m=1}}</ref> The historic Lokanarkavu temple, made famous by the ] (ballads of North Malabar), is situated in Vatakara.<ref>{{citation|title=Lokanarkavu Temple|url=https://www.keralatourism.org/destination/lokanarkavu-temple-vadakara/274}}</ref><ref>{{citation|title=A shrine for the heroes of Vadakkan Pattukal - Lokanarkavu|url=https://www.indiavideo.org/kerala/worship/temple/lokanarkavu-temple-vadakkan-pattukal-9234.php}}</ref> A new tardigrade (water bear) species collected from Vadakara coast has been named after Kerala State; '']''.<ref>{{Cite journal|title=A new Tardigrade species, ''Stygarctus keralensis'' sp. nov. (Arthrotardigrada: Stygarctidae) from the intertidal zone of Southwest coast of India|year=2021 |doi=10.11646/zootaxa.4985.3.5 |url=https://www.mapress.com/zt/article/view/42726|last1=Vishnudattan |first1=N. K. |last2=Nandan |first2=S. Bijoy |last3=Hansen |first3=J. G. |last4=Jayachandran |first4=P. R. |journal=Zootaxa |volume=4985 |issue=3 |page=381391 |pmid=34186802 |s2cid=235688035 }}</ref>
Geographically, Vatakara is situated about 48&nbsp;km to the north of ] city. The town lies by the side of a river known by different names as Moorad river, Kuttiadi river or Kotakkal river. Originally known as ''Vadakkekara'' (north shore) due to its position with respect to the Kottakkal puzha, the place came to be called as Vatakara by popular usage later.

Vatakara State assembly constituency is one of the 140 state legislative assembly constituencies in Kerala state in southern India. It is also one of the 7 state legislative assembly constituencies included in the Vatakara Lok Sabha constituency. As of the 2021 assembly election, the current MLA is K.K Rema of Revolutionary Marxist Party of India.
]

==Etymology==
{{Empty section|date=August 2023}}

==Geography==
]
Vatakara is located at {{Coord|11.60|N|75.58|E|}} and has an average elevation of {{convert|15|m|ft|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/13/Badagara.html|title=Maps, Weather, and Airports for Badagara, India|website=www.fallingrain.com}}</ref> It is situated about 49&nbsp;km to the north of ] City, approximately 44&nbsp;km to the south of ] City, and adjacent to ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.keralatourism.org/malabar/vatakara-kozhikode.php|title=Vatakara|website=Keralata Tourism}}</ref> The town lies by the side of a river variously called the Moorad river, the ] river, or Kottakkal river. The town's position relative to this river led to it being called Vadakkekara (north bank), later contracted to Vatakara. Towards the east, near the panchayats of ] and Kuttiady, Vadakara borders the ] along the ] section. In the west, like many of the towns in Kerala, Vatakara is flanked by the ]. The Kuttiyadi river meets the sea to the south of Vatakara, forming small islands and sandbars near the river mouth.


==History== ==History==
The ] emerged into independent 10 principalities i.e., ] (Vadakara), ] or Poyanad (]), ] (]), ], Iruvazhinadu (], ] etc., under separate royal chieftains due to the outcome of internal dissensions.<ref name="Logan">{{Cite book|title=Malabar Manual (Volume-I)|last=Logan|first=William|publisher=Asian Educational Services|year=2010|isbn=9788120604476|location=New Delhi|pages=631–666}}</ref> The ] dynasty on the northernmost part of ] dominion, were relatives to both Kolathunadu as well as the ] of ], in the early medieval period.<ref name="Neeleswaram fete">{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/neeleswaram-fete-to-showcase-its-heritage/article2645520.ece | title=Neeleswaram fete to showcase its heritage | author=The Hindu staff reporter | website=The Hindu | date=21 November 2011 | access-date=24 November 2016 }}</ref>
]
Vatakara is the capital of old ] which was inhabited by a tribal folk known as ''Kurumbrar''. The name ''Kurumbranadu'' has its origin in the name of this tribe.


Vatakara was the capital of the historical region called Kurumba Nadu, home of the ] people. In the pre-British era, a major part of the current Vatakara taluk, including the area currently constituting the Vatakara municipality, was ruled by a chieftain as a feudatory to the ] kingdom. The remaining part of the taluk was initially part of the Polathiri kingdom and later ruled by the ] of ]. The boundary between these kingdoms is believed to have been in the region in Vatakara known as Puduppanam, with the Moorad river forming a geographical boundary. The ] dynasty was established when a Polathiri royal was forced to cross over to Kolathunadu after an unsuccessful battle with the Zamorins, settled in the region, and married a Kolathiri princess.
Vadakara is known as the birth place of ], the legendary hero of the '']'' (] of North ]). These ballads of oral tradition are considered to be of great literary and aesthetic value.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} ''Thacholi tharavadu'' (the original ''thacholi'' family home) is still preserved and the birth anniversary of thacholi othenan is celebrated. ] is one of the famous temples in this area. Also the temple for the memory of legend Thacholi Othenan is located at Vadakara. This temple is named as Thacholi Manikkothu Kavu temple.


Vatakara became an important trade center in the region by the early 18th century, exporting agricultural products such as coffee, pepper and coconut. Together with smaller nearby ports at Chombal, Muttungal and ], Badagara became one of the major centers of trade at a level with those at ], ] and Calicut. Building on a thriving economy led by a strong sea trade, the Kadathanad rulers established a strong naval force which became known as the "Lord of the Seas", since it was the strongest naval force from the Malayalam-speaking region.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Malabar manual.|first=William|last=Logan|date=2009|publisher=Low Price Publications|isbn=978-8175364752|oclc=946063221}}</ref>
In ] ] visited Vatakara as part of a fund raising trip to ].

A significant factor in the rise of Vatakara as a trade center was the rise and subsequent fall of the ]s of Kottakkal. During the 16th century CE, Kunjali Marakkars were the admirals of the Zamorin's naval fleet and were famous for their valor and sea battle tactics. The Marakkars established their stronghold in Kottakkal and built a fort there. The last Marakkar, Kunjali IV, was defeated at the beginning of the 17th century by the combined forces of the Zamorin, with whom he had fallen out, and the Portuguese, who resented the interference of Kunjali and his followers in their trade route. The fort was completely destroyed by a bombardment from the sea.{{Citation needed|date=November 2019}} However, the Marakkars' knowledge of ship handling and tactics continued to be passed down in the community of seafarers in this area of Vatakara, later allowing the ruler of Kadathanad to establish his supremacy in the sea and to enforce a 'pass' system for trade ships.{{Citation needed|date=November 2019}}

The region became a separate kingdom {{circa|1750}}, when the then chieftain took the title of Kadathanad Rajah. During this period, there are records of frequent skirmishes between Kadathanad and the ruler of ] as well as the foreign colonial powers of the British, based in ], and the French, based in ].{{Citation needed|date=November 2019}}

In legend, Vatakara is the birthplace of ], ], and ], the heroes of the ] (] of ]). The Thacholi family home, Thacholi Tharavadu, is still preserved and the anniversary of Thacholi Othenan's birth is celebrated in the Thacholi Manikkothu Kavu temple.

Notable temples in the area include ] and Kottakkal Bhagavathi Temple, the second richest temple in North Malabar. Kalari Ullathil Temple is also situated near Vatakara town.The martial art ] originated in Vatakara.


==Demographics== ==Demographics==
Most of Vatakara's inhabitants are labourers and farmers, while some are government employees. A large number of expatriates from Vatakara work in Middle Eastern countries, and their remittances have a strong influence on the local economy. Some emigrants work in nearby states like ], ] and ].
] India ],{{GR|India}} Vadakara had a population of 75,740. Males constitute 48% of the population and females 52%. Vadakara has an average literacy rate of 83%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 85%, and female literacy is 80%. In Vadakara, 11% of the population is under 6 years of age.

As of the ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.censusindia.net/results/town.php?stad=A&state5=999|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040616075334/http://www.censusindia.net/results/town.php?stad=A&state5=999|archive-date=2004-06-16|title= Census of India 2001: Data from the 2001 Census, including cities, villages and towns (Provisional)|access-date=2008-11-01|publisher= Census Commission of India}}</ref> Vatakara had a population of 75,740, with males constituting 48% of the population and females 52%. Vatakara has an average literacy rate of 83%, higher than the national average of 59.5%; male literacy is 85%, and female literacy is 80%. 11% of the population was under 6 years old.


==Economy== ==Economy==
Vadakara is a coastal town with fishing as one of its main commercial activities. The river mouth where Moorad river flows into the ] is close to the town. Sand Banks, a sunset spot and a place of tourist interest is located at the river mouth. Fishing is one of Vatakara's main commercial activities. The Moorad River flows into the ] at a point close to the town.


Vatakara is organized around two commercial hubs, the old and new bus depots. The area around the old bus depot contains commercial establishments as old as 100 years. Recently, commerce has shifted to the area around the new bus depot and the road towards Kannur, with many new buildings, including hospitals and flats being built or planned.
Vadakara is a commercial focal point in ] with all the amenities vital for a modern township. There are hospitals, colleges, schools, technical education centres, and recreation facilities. The martial art form ] had most popularity and largest number of exponents in Vatakara.

Nut Street is the distribution center for nuts, including coconuts and ] nuts. Produce flows to collection outlets and is dried, packed, and transported to other states. Northern Kerala is well known for the production of coconuts.

Hospitals include the CO-OP Hospital, Asha Hospital, Janatha Hospital, Ceeyam Hospital and the Parco specialty hospital.

The Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society is a unique labour cooperative initiative centered in ] that was inspired by the Indian sage ]. The society was registered in 1925.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ulccsltd.com/|title=ULCCS LTD|website=ulccsltd.com}}</ref>

==Climate==
{{Weather box/concise_C
| location=Vatakara, Kerala
| source=Climate-Data.org<ref name="Climate-Data.org">
"CLIMATE: VATAKARA",
Climate-Data.org. Web: .</ref>
| 31.7|32.0|32.9|33.2|32.7|29.6|28.3|28.8|29.5|30.4|31.1|31.5<!--highs-->
| 21.9|23.0|24.6|25.8|25.7|23.9|23.4|23.6|23.7|23.8|23.3|22.1<!--lows-->
| 2|4|15|78|292|905|1031|520|282|248|108|23<!--rain-->
}}
]


==Transportation== ==Transportation==
* Train: ] is one of India's model railway stations, and connected to all major metros
* Air: ] is the closest airport, approximately 45&nbsp;km away. ] is approximately&nbsp;71&nbsp;km away.
* Road: ] (NH66) passes through Vatakara town, connecting Vatakara to ] to the south (45&nbsp;km) and to ] (44&nbsp;km) and ] (188&nbsp;km) to the north. A preliminary survey is being performed for a National Highway to connect Vatakara to ] through ]{{Citation needed|date=June 2009}}.
* ] distance between Vadakara to Mananthavady by bus is approximately 65&nbsp;km. Bus travelling is one of the ways to reach from Vadakara to Mananthavady ]
* ] via Thamarassery 55&nbsp;km and 83&nbsp;km from *] to *]

==Notable places==
===Temples===
; Lokanarkavu temple
]
The ] is located at ], 5&nbsp;<nowiki>km from Vadakara. It is closely associated with the heroes and heroines of Vadakkanpattu: Thacholi Othenan, the hero of </nowiki>], was a devotee of the Lokanarkavu goddess, Lokanarkavilamma, an aspect of ].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/151025/nation-current-affairs/article/rediscovering-historic-lokanarkavu-temple|title=Rediscovering the historic Lokanarkavu temple|last=Meethal|first=Amiya|date=2015-10-25|website=Deccan Chronicle|language=en|access-date=2019-11-26}}</ref> Three rock-cut caves near the temple are decorated with candid murals and carvings. The annual Hindu festival celebrating Durga, locally called ], takes place during March/April. Two temples adjacent to the Lokanarkavu temple focus on the worship of Vishnu and Shiva.
; Payamkuttimala temple
: The temple of ] at Memunda is managed by the tourism department of the Kerala Government. As of 2018, plans were under way for modernization of the surroundings of the temple.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kozhikode/kerala-payamkutty-mala-hill-set-for-a-makeover/articleshow/66985896.cms|title=Kerala: Payamkutty Mala hill set for a makeover|last=Sree|first=K. M.|date=7 December 2018|website=The Times of India|language=en|access-date=2019-11-26}}</ref> The ] form of worship is practiced here.
; Chendamangalam temple
: The ] is one of the oldest temples in Kerala, and also one of the very few temples which has Dhwaja ]. It is situated 2&nbsp;km from Vatakara town, near to Chorode. The deities primarily worshipped are ] and ]. This temple is similar in nature to the ] temple. When pilgrimages to Sabarimala were impossible due to a fire, Chennamangalam temple served as an alternative destination.
; Kozhukkannur Neyyamruth Madom
: Kozhukkannur Neyyamruth Madom is located at ]. In the ] festival, the madom forms a centre from which Neyamruthu (]) offerings are taken to the Kottiyoor temple on foot.

Additional temples in the region include Kizhakkedathu temple, Sivapuram Sree Mahadeva Kshethram, Arathil Bhagavathi Kottakkal temple, Thuneri Sree Vettakkorumakan Kshethram, Ponmeri Shiva temple, Kalleri Kuttichathan temple, Kaliyampalli temple and Nagath Sri Muchilottu Bhagavathi temple.

; '''Thacholi Othenan'''
Thacholi Meppayil Kunjhu Othenan or Mepayil Tacholi Manikoth Kovilakathu Kunji Othena Kurup (Udayana Kurup of Thacholi Manikoth House) or more popularly Thacholi Othenan was a legendary hero who is believed to have lived during 16th century in North Malabar region of Kerala, India. He is praised in the Vadakkan Pattukal (ballads of North Malabar). Thacholi Ambadi, another renowned martial arts expert, was Othenan's son.

== Kunjali Marakkar memorial ==
]
The location of the ] fort on the southern bank of the Moorad river, 44&nbsp;km from Kozhikode and 51 Km from Kannur, is now known as Kottakkal. A building in Kottakkal that belonged to ] serves as a small museum, with collections of ancient swords, cannonballs and knives.The Kunjali Marakkar or Kunhali Marakkar was the title given to the Muslim naval chief of the Inscriptions on the Kunjali Marakkar Memorial at Kottakkal, Vatakara.

=== Sandbanks recreation area ===
]
The Sandbanks recreation area is located on a small peninsula with the Moorad river on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west, approximately 3&nbsp;km towards the south of Vatakara town. The Sandbanks Bungalow, which was built by Wilfred Vincent Reilly in 1946, stands on this peninsula. The area is owned by the Aditya Birla Management Corporation Ltd and managed by Vadakara Municipality. A coastal police station is being built on the peninsula.{{citation needed|date=April 2022}}

== Theyyam ==
] or Thirayattam is a ritual performance art form that depict the cultural heritage of North Malabar, especially of ancient ]. Theyyam depicts ], ] and other deities and cultural heroes. The drama is enacted based on ancient stories and the language used is "Tottam pattu", a primitive form of Malayalam. Theyyam shows the Buddhist influence from centuries ago. Theyyam is usually held from October to May every year. The colour of Theyyam is typically red. Velan is described in the ] 500 CE. It could have been a tribal ritual art which evolved under Buddhism and the Brahminic revival of Hinduism. This art form is addressed as "Kaliyattom" North of Pazhayangadi Puzha, Kannur, as "Theyyam" South of the river and as "Tirayattom" around Vadakara (Kadathanadu).

== Villages in Vatakara Taluk ==
'''Villages in Vatakara Taluk'''

The position of the Vatakara Taluk in ] is given below:
{{Kozhikode Labelled Map}}
The villages included in the Taluk are:
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* Nadakkuthazha
* ]
* ]
* ]
* Palayad
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]

==Educational institutions==
{{Main|List of educational institutions in Vatakara}}

There are many schools, colleges and tuition centers in Vatakara.

Amrutha Public School,Pathiyarakkara, Vidya Prakash Public School, Rani Public School, Chorode and Gokulam Public School are the 4 main private schools in Vadakara.

] is a post-graduate campus affiliated with the University of Calicut.

2. The 62nd Regional Centre of the ] was established at Vatakara in January 2011, serving students from the Malabar region, including the Kasargod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Malappuram districts.

3. ]

College of Engineering Vadakara is an engineering college in Kozhikode district of Kerala, established in 1999. The first engineering college under the Co-operative Academy of Professional Education, Thiruvananthapuram, established by Govt. of Kerala, started functioning in June 1999.

4. ]

Model Polytechnic College, Vadakara is running under the ] established by Government of Kerala.

5. ] was established in 1965 and it is managed by the Department of Education. It is located in urban area. It is located in VATAKARA ...

6. Busthaniya Women's College

==Notable residents==
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a person to this list if they already have their OWN article on the English Misplaced Pages ♦♦♦--->
<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order by LAST NAME ♦♦♦--->
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
*]

== Tourism ==
''']'''

] at Iringal, Vadakara sells traditional local art and crafts.

'''Sandbanks Beach'''

Local beaches include Sandbanks<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.keralatourism.org/destination/vadakara-beach-kozhikode/141|title=Vadakara Sand Banks Beach at Kozhikode|website=Kerala Tourism}}</ref> and ] Beach at Kolavipalam between Vatakara and Payyoli, to the south of the Murad River. Sandbanks Beach features the Sandbanks Beach Park operated by KTDC.

<nowiki/>-

'''The Kunjali Marakkar Museum''' is located at about 1.5&nbsp;km from the Sargaalaya Craft Village, at Kottakkal, Iringal (working hours: 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. and Monday is a holiday). It is the old residence of a legendary warrior, who fought valiantly against the Portuguese invaders. Marakkars are believed to be originally Moplas of Malabar, probably differing in exact origin and sub sect and have been traders by profession. The title of Marakkar possibly also derived from the ‘Malayala’ word, marak-kalam, meaning boat . We can learn from history that the Muslim Naval Chief of the Zamorin (Samoothiri) Kingdom of Calicut (Kozhikode), namely the Kutti Mohammed Ali was bestowed the title of Kunjali in 1507. He was later succeeded by Kutti Pokker Ali (Kunhali II) and then, by the famed supporter of Kunhali II, namely Patu Marakkar (Kunhali III) and subsequently, the nephew of Kunhali III, by name Mohammed Marakar became Kunhali IV. These four Kunhali Marakkars have played such a prominent role in the Zamorin's naval wars with the Portuguese from 1502 to 1600 that they are accredited with the honour of organizing the first naval defense of the Indian coast.

Once you enter the massive gates with the ‘sword and shield’ insignia emblazoned on black cast iron door, a small and well-maintained garden with bright flowers, a porch and a handsome cottage and the Museum, renovated in 2013 welcome you. A very dedicated and soft-spoken guide is readily available there to narrate the entire episodes with patience. Some of the prominent displays include the model of the forted village of Kottakkal constructed by Kunjali Marakkar III, the arms such as the sword used by Kunjali Marakkar, cannonballs and many other war relics of the country's earliest naval heroes, who led the first successful defense of India's coast against the European sea power.

'''Payamkuttimala,ECO tourisum'''

A panoramic view of Vadakara and its surroundings is what Payamkuttimala in Kozhikode district has to offer. Located from Panikkotti on Vadakara – Tiruvallur road, lots of travellers come to the hill station to watch the sunrise and sunset and gaze at the Arabian Sea. Set about 2,000 feet above sea level, the small hillock also houses a Muthappan Madapura and dead laterite rocks.

'''Lokanarkavu Temple''' is an ancient Hindu temple situated in ] 4&nbsp;km from Vatakara, in ], ] region of ] state of south ]. Lokanarkavu is a short form of ''Lokamalayarkavu'' which means ''lokam'' (world) made of ''mala'' (mountain), ''aaru'' (river) and ''kavu'' (grove). The closest railway station is at Vatakara, which is 5&nbsp;km from temple. The nearest airport is ] which is 54&nbsp;km away.

Pooram is the important festival here and it is conducted with great pomp and show. The week-long festival begins with Kodiyettam (flag hoisting) and concludes with Arattu. The temple dedicated to goddess ] has great historical importance as ], the legendary martial hero of Kerala, used to worship here every day.


== Lokanarkavu and Kalarippayattu ==
*Railway Station- Vadakara Railway station.
Thirty days Mandala Utsavam in Malayalam month Vrischikam (November–December) and Pooram in Malayalam month meenam (March–April) are the annual festival at the Lokanarkavu Bhagavathy Temple. This is the only temple where a peculiar folk dance called ] is presented during festivals. The dance, resembles the martial art ]. Even today, all Kalaripayattu artists seek the blessings of the deity before their debut due to the association of Lokanarkavu Temple with legendary hero thacholi othenan.
*Nearest Airport- ] International Airport, approx. 80&nbsp;km away.
*Road- Vadakara is well connected by road as the ] passes through Vadakara town. NH 17 connects Vadakara to Calicut (Kozhikode) to the south (47 km) and to ] to the North (202 km). Survey is under progress for a National Highway Connecting Vadakara to ] through ].


'''Kakkayam Dam'''
==People==


'''Kakkayam''' is a ] site located at ] in, ]. Kakkayam is on the outskirts of the ], and ], a 7,421-hectare (18,340-acre) abode of wild animals including ] and ]. Kakkayam has an abundant wildlife population and is also a ] and ] destination.
Most of the people are labours and farmers and some are goverment employees. A vast number of people are working in Gulf Countries. Majority of the population are ]. ] are also a major community. The largest political parties are ] and ].


This reservoir is part of the ] Hydro Electric Project and is located at about 750&nbsp;m (2,460&nbsp;ft) above sea level. The pen stock runs down from the dam site and goes through various tunnels and hills to the Kuttiyadi Main power house at Kakkayam with an installed capacity of 225MW. Water coming out of this power house is diverted to two small hydro electric projects namely Kuttiyadi Tail Race power house and Kakkayam small hydro electric project with an installed capacity of 3.75 MW and 3 MW respectively.After this the tail water joins the river and is utilized for Peruvannamoozhi Irrigation Project.
==Tourist Places==


'''Kalleri Kuttichathan Temple.'''
'''Birth Place of ]'''
The Marakars were admirals of Zamorines, who valiantly resisted the Portuguese on the high seas. Kunhali Marakars built a fort on the southern bank of the Moorad river, which was subsequently completely destroyed by Portuguese with the help of Zamorins for various reasons. The place is known today as Kottakkal. It is 46&nbsp;km. North of Kozhikode. A small hut that belonged to Kunhali Marakkar with collections of ancient swords, canon balls and knives can be seen here. Marakkar Bhavanam can be seen in the Photo Gallery.


Kalleri is famous and civilized village area that is belongs to Vatakara taluk, north to Kozhikode. Kalleri is located at Vatakara Thanneerpanthal route 8&nbsp;km from Vatakara, near Villiappaly. It is a very beautiful place and is suitable for rest with nature.There is a canal at Kalleri, which is a part of Vadakara – Mahi canal. Land of Kalleri is encircled by Kallerikunnu at west and Aroora mala (mountain) at east. The famous Kalleri Kuttichathan temple located here. Thousands of devotees are visiting this temple every week.
''']'''
This is situated 5&nbsp;km. from Vatakara. This temple is associated with the heroes and heroines of Vadakkanpattu. In the vicinity of the temple there are three rock-cut caves. The candid murals and carvings here are of great fascination to visitors. The main deity is Goddess ]. The festival, locally called Pooram, is celebrated during March/April. The temple is 1500 years old.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} There are two temples adjacent to the Lokanarkavu with Vishnu and Shiva as deities. Buses run frequently from Kochi to Vatakara. From Vatakara there are frequent buses to Lokanarkavu. Lokanarkavu goddess is named as Lokanarkavilamma which was the dearest god of Thacholi Othenan a hero of Kadathanadu.


'''Kottathuruthi Bhagavathi Temple'''
''']'''
A massive rock, Velliyamkallu associated with the valiant Kunhali Marakkar is located 13&nbspkm. off Payyoli Beach. The rock though much dreaded by navigators was safe ground for the Marakar to attack the invading Portuguese. The fisher folk look at it with awe and fear. However, it is worth exploring to see the beautiful figures nature has engraved on it. It was on this rock that Marakars killed the whole crew of a ship belonging to the Portuguese.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}


Kottathuruthi Bhagavathi temple is one of the beautiful ] in ] situated near the ]. This temple is located in a small island called Kottathuruthi. It is an ] village situated in the Kuttyadi river near ].
''']'''
Situated near the Payam Kuttimala, Siddasrama is a spiritual centre. Siddasramam has branches in Kerala as well as outside Kerala.


==See also ==
''']'''
{{commons category|Vatakara}}
Sandbanks is a famous beach which supplements the seaside beauty of Vatakara. This beach where Kottakkal puzha reaches the sea is a stunningly beautiful beach.
{{Wikivoyage}}
There is a Bungalow of Birla opposite to the sandbanks beach. There are buses plying to the beach every five minutes from Vatakara.


*]
''']'''
*]
South of sandbanks is silent beach. <!-- One can feel an extraordinary calm while at this area of the beach. I feel that it is beyond what words can express. -->


==References==
''']'''
{{Reflist}}
Located between Madapally College and Kannokkara on NH 17, Shivapuram is a failry old temple now under rennovation and construction. Please visit for more information.


{{Kerala}}
==Colleges==
{{Municipalities of Kerala}}
* Govt. Arts and Science College, Madapally (ESTD: 1964)
{{North Malabar}}
* Co-operative Engineering College, Vadakara
{{Places of interest in North Malabar}}
* Govt. College, Mokeri
{{Malabar}}
* MES College, Villiappalli
{{Kozhikode district}}
* MET College, Kallachi
{{Palakkad Railway Division}}
* SN College Vatakara


]
==Schools==
]
* Government Technical High School, Vatakara.
* BEM High School, Vatakara.
* Amrutha Public School, Vatakara
* Govt.higher secondary school, Vadakara, Puthoor (PO) (BTS)
* Emjay V H S S Villiappalli, Villiappalli.
* Perambra Higher Secondary School, Perambra.
* Kadathanad Rajas High School, ].
* RNM High School, ].
* Memunda Higher Secondary School, ].
* RAC Higher Secondary School, ].
* Shanthi Niketan School, ].
* Govt Higher Secondary School, Choorode.
* Vidya Prakash Public School, ].
* Govt. Sanskrit Higher Secondary School, ].
* Sree Narayana English High School, Vatakara.
* Rani Public School, Vatakara.
* Sree Gokulam Public School, Vatakara
* Islamic Academy English High School, ].
* St. Anthony's Girls High School, Vatakara.
* Government Fisheries Higher Secondary School (boys & girls), ].
* Manarul Ulum Madrassa High School, ]
* Government Higher Secondary School,Orkkatery
*Maniyur Panchayath Higher Secondary School,Palayad Nada
*Govt. Higher Secondary School Orkkattery, Eramala.
*JNM higher Secondary School, Puthuppanam
*Karakkadu L.P School Nadapuram Road
*Athma Vidya Sangam L P School Madappally
*Govt H.S Madappally
*Avikkal Senior Basic School,Avikkal
*Technical High School, Badagara
*M.U.M High School,Thazhe Angadi, Vatakara
]

Latest revision as of 09:45, 16 December 2024

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Municipality in Kerala, India
Vatakara Vadakara, Badagara
Municipality
a sky view of vadakara byepass areaa sky view of vadakara byepass area
Nickname: Kadathanad Vadakkarakkar
Vatakara is located in KeralaVatakaraVatakaraShow map of KeralaVatakara is located in IndiaVatakaraVatakaraVatakara (India)Show map of India
Coordinates: 11°34′2″N 75°36′2″E / 11.56722°N 75.60056°E / 11.56722; 75.60056
CountryIndia
StateKerala
DistrictKozhikode
Government
 • TypeMunicipality
Area
 • Total23.33 km (9.01 sq mi)
Population
 • Total75,295
 • Density3,200/km (8,400/sq mi)
DemonymVadakarakkaran
Languages
 • OfficialMalayalam, English
Time zoneUTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN673101
Telephone code0496
ISO 3166 codeIN-KL
Vehicle registrationKL-18
Lok Sabha constituencyVadakara
DemonymVadakarakkaran

Vatakara, (Malayalam: [ʋɐɖɐgɐɾɐ]), (formerly Badagara, French: Bargaret) is a Municipality, Taluk and a major town in the Kozhikode district of Kerala state, India. The municipality of Vatakara covers an area of 23.33 km (9.01 sq mi) and is bordered by Mahé to the north and Payyoli to the south. It is the headquarters of Vatakara taluk, which consists of 22 panchayats. During the reign of the Kolathiris and Zamorins, Vatakara was known as Kadathanadu. During the British Raj, it was part of the North Malabar region of Malabar District in the state of Madras. The historic Lokanarkavu temple, made famous by the Vadakkan Pattukal (ballads of North Malabar), is situated in Vatakara. A new tardigrade (water bear) species collected from Vadakara coast has been named after Kerala State; Stygarctus keralensis.

Vatakara State assembly constituency is one of the 140 state legislative assembly constituencies in Kerala state in southern India. It is also one of the 7 state legislative assembly constituencies included in the Vatakara Lok Sabha constituency. As of the 2021 assembly election, the current MLA is K.K Rema of Revolutionary Marxist Party of India.

Etymology

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Geography

Jetty on the Moorad river

Vatakara is located at 11°36′N 75°35′E / 11.60°N 75.58°E / 11.60; 75.58 and has an average elevation of 15 m (49 ft). It is situated about 49 km to the north of Kozhikode City, approximately 44 km to the south of Kannur City, and adjacent to Mahé. The town lies by the side of a river variously called the Moorad river, the Kuttiady river, or Kottakkal river. The town's position relative to this river led to it being called Vadakkekara (north bank), later contracted to Vatakara. Towards the east, near the panchayats of Nadapuram and Kuttiady, Vadakara borders the Wayanad district along the Western Ghats section. In the west, like many of the towns in Kerala, Vatakara is flanked by the Arabian Sea. The Kuttiyadi river meets the sea to the south of Vatakara, forming small islands and sandbars near the river mouth.

History

The Kolathunadu emerged into independent 10 principalities i.e., Kadathanadu (Vadakara), Randathara or Poyanad (Dharmadom), Kottayam (Thalassery), Nileshwaram, Iruvazhinadu (Panoor, Kurumbranad etc., under separate royal chieftains due to the outcome of internal dissensions. The Nileshwaram dynasty on the northernmost part of Kolathiri dominion, were relatives to both Kolathunadu as well as the Zamorin of Calicut, in the early medieval period.

Vatakara was the capital of the historical region called Kurumba Nadu, home of the Kurumbar people. In the pre-British era, a major part of the current Vatakara taluk, including the area currently constituting the Vatakara municipality, was ruled by a chieftain as a feudatory to the Kolathiri kingdom. The remaining part of the taluk was initially part of the Polathiri kingdom and later ruled by the Zamorins of Calicut. The boundary between these kingdoms is believed to have been in the region in Vatakara known as Puduppanam, with the Moorad river forming a geographical boundary. The Kadathanad dynasty was established when a Polathiri royal was forced to cross over to Kolathunadu after an unsuccessful battle with the Zamorins, settled in the region, and married a Kolathiri princess.

Vatakara became an important trade center in the region by the early 18th century, exporting agricultural products such as coffee, pepper and coconut. Together with smaller nearby ports at Chombal, Muttungal and Kottakkal, Badagara became one of the major centers of trade at a level with those at Cannanore, Tellicherri and Calicut. Building on a thriving economy led by a strong sea trade, the Kadathanad rulers established a strong naval force which became known as the "Lord of the Seas", since it was the strongest naval force from the Malayalam-speaking region.

A significant factor in the rise of Vatakara as a trade center was the rise and subsequent fall of the Kunjali Marakkars of Kottakkal. During the 16th century CE, Kunjali Marakkars were the admirals of the Zamorin's naval fleet and were famous for their valor and sea battle tactics. The Marakkars established their stronghold in Kottakkal and built a fort there. The last Marakkar, Kunjali IV, was defeated at the beginning of the 17th century by the combined forces of the Zamorin, with whom he had fallen out, and the Portuguese, who resented the interference of Kunjali and his followers in their trade route. The fort was completely destroyed by a bombardment from the sea. However, the Marakkars' knowledge of ship handling and tactics continued to be passed down in the community of seafarers in this area of Vatakara, later allowing the ruler of Kadathanad to establish his supremacy in the sea and to enforce a 'pass' system for trade ships.

The region became a separate kingdom c. 1750, when the then chieftain took the title of Kadathanad Rajah. During this period, there are records of frequent skirmishes between Kadathanad and the ruler of Kottayam as well as the foreign colonial powers of the British, based in Thalassery, and the French, based in Mahé.

In legend, Vatakara is the birthplace of Unniyarcha, Aromal Chekavar, and Thacholi Othenan, the heroes of the Vadakkanpattu (ballads of North Malabar). The Thacholi family home, Thacholi Tharavadu, is still preserved and the anniversary of Thacholi Othenan's birth is celebrated in the Thacholi Manikkothu Kavu temple.

Notable temples in the area include Lokanarkavu and Kottakkal Bhagavathi Temple, the second richest temple in North Malabar. Kalari Ullathil Temple is also situated near Vatakara town.The martial art Kalaripayattu originated in Vatakara.

Demographics

Most of Vatakara's inhabitants are labourers and farmers, while some are government employees. A large number of expatriates from Vatakara work in Middle Eastern countries, and their remittances have a strong influence on the local economy. Some emigrants work in nearby states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra.

As of the 2011 Census of India, Vatakara had a population of 75,740, with males constituting 48% of the population and females 52%. Vatakara has an average literacy rate of 83%, higher than the national average of 59.5%; male literacy is 85%, and female literacy is 80%. 11% of the population was under 6 years old.

Economy

Fishing is one of Vatakara's main commercial activities. The Moorad River flows into the Arabian Sea at a point close to the town.

Vatakara is organized around two commercial hubs, the old and new bus depots. The area around the old bus depot contains commercial establishments as old as 100 years. Recently, commerce has shifted to the area around the new bus depot and the road towards Kannur, with many new buildings, including hospitals and flats being built or planned.

Nut Street is the distribution center for nuts, including coconuts and areca nuts. Produce flows to collection outlets and is dried, packed, and transported to other states. Northern Kerala is well known for the production of coconuts.

Hospitals include the CO-OP Hospital, Asha Hospital, Janatha Hospital, Ceeyam Hospital and the Parco specialty hospital.

The Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society is a unique labour cooperative initiative centered in Madappally that was inspired by the Indian sage Vagbhatananda. The society was registered in 1925.

Climate

Climate data for Vatakara, Kerala
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 31.7
(89.1)
32.0
(89.6)
32.9
(91.2)
33.2
(91.8)
32.7
(90.9)
29.6
(85.3)
28.3
(82.9)
28.8
(83.8)
29.5
(85.1)
30.4
(86.7)
31.1
(88.0)
31.5
(88.7)
31.0
(87.8)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 21.9
(71.4)
23.0
(73.4)
24.6
(76.3)
25.8
(78.4)
25.7
(78.3)
23.9
(75.0)
23.4
(74.1)
23.6
(74.5)
23.7
(74.7)
23.8
(74.8)
23.3
(73.9)
22.1
(71.8)
23.7
(74.7)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 2
(0.1)
4
(0.2)
15
(0.6)
78
(3.1)
292
(11.5)
905
(35.6)
1,031
(40.6)
520
(20.5)
282
(11.1)
248
(9.8)
108
(4.3)
23
(0.9)
3,508
(138.3)
Source: Climate-Data.org
gateway of vadakara

Transportation

Notable places

Temples

Lokanarkavu temple
Bhagavathy Temple, Lokanarkavu

The Lokanarkavu temple is located at Memunda, 5 km from Vadakara. It is closely associated with the heroes and heroines of Vadakkanpattu: Thacholi Othenan, the hero of Kadathanadu, was a devotee of the Lokanarkavu goddess, Lokanarkavilamma, an aspect of Durga. Three rock-cut caves near the temple are decorated with candid murals and carvings. The annual Hindu festival celebrating Durga, locally called Pooram, takes place during March/April. Two temples adjacent to the Lokanarkavu temple focus on the worship of Vishnu and Shiva.

Payamkuttimala temple
The temple of Muthappan at Memunda is managed by the tourism department of the Kerala Government. As of 2018, plans were under way for modernization of the surroundings of the temple. The Theyyam form of worship is practiced here.
Chendamangalam temple
The Chennamangalam temple is one of the oldest temples in Kerala, and also one of the very few temples which has Dhwaja Pratishtha. It is situated 2 km from Vatakara town, near to Chorode. The deities primarily worshipped are Shiva and Ayyappan. This temple is similar in nature to the Sabarimala temple. When pilgrimages to Sabarimala were impossible due to a fire, Chennamangalam temple served as an alternative destination.
Kozhukkannur Neyyamruth Madom
Kozhukkannur Neyyamruth Madom is located at Purameri. In the Kottiyoor festival, the madom forms a centre from which Neyamruthu (ghee) offerings are taken to the Kottiyoor temple on foot.

Additional temples in the region include Kizhakkedathu temple, Sivapuram Sree Mahadeva Kshethram, Arathil Bhagavathi Kottakkal temple, Thuneri Sree Vettakkorumakan Kshethram, Ponmeri Shiva temple, Kalleri Kuttichathan temple, Kaliyampalli temple and Nagath Sri Muchilottu Bhagavathi temple.

Thacholi Othenan

Thacholi Meppayil Kunjhu Othenan or Mepayil Tacholi Manikoth Kovilakathu Kunji Othena Kurup (Udayana Kurup of Thacholi Manikoth House) or more popularly Thacholi Othenan was a legendary hero who is believed to have lived during 16th century in North Malabar region of Kerala, India. He is praised in the Vadakkan Pattukal (ballads of North Malabar). Thacholi Ambadi, another renowned martial arts expert, was Othenan's son.

Kunjali Marakkar memorial

Kunjali Marakkar memorial

The location of the Marakkar fort on the southern bank of the Moorad river, 44 km from Kozhikode and 51 Km from Kannur, is now known as Kottakkal. A building in Kottakkal that belonged to Kunjali Marakkar serves as a small museum, with collections of ancient swords, cannonballs and knives.The Kunjali Marakkar or Kunhali Marakkar was the title given to the Muslim naval chief of the Inscriptions on the Kunjali Marakkar Memorial at Kottakkal, Vatakara.

Sandbanks recreation area

Vadakara Sandbanks

The Sandbanks recreation area is located on a small peninsula with the Moorad river on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west, approximately 3 km towards the south of Vatakara town. The Sandbanks Bungalow, which was built by Wilfred Vincent Reilly in 1946, stands on this peninsula. The area is owned by the Aditya Birla Management Corporation Ltd and managed by Vadakara Municipality. A coastal police station is being built on the peninsula.

Theyyam

Theyyam or Thirayattam is a ritual performance art form that depict the cultural heritage of North Malabar, especially of ancient Kolathunad. Theyyam depicts Shiva bhutaganas, Kali and other deities and cultural heroes. The drama is enacted based on ancient stories and the language used is "Tottam pattu", a primitive form of Malayalam. Theyyam shows the Buddhist influence from centuries ago. Theyyam is usually held from October to May every year. The colour of Theyyam is typically red. Velan is described in the Sangam literature 500 CE. It could have been a tribal ritual art which evolved under Buddhism and the Brahminic revival of Hinduism. This art form is addressed as "Kaliyattom" North of Pazhayangadi Puzha, Kannur, as "Theyyam" South of the river and as "Tirayattom" around Vadakara (Kadathanadu).

Villages in Vatakara Taluk

Villages in Vatakara Taluk

The position of the Vatakara Taluk in Kozhikode district is given below:

Vatakara Koyilandy Thamarassery Kozhikode

The villages included in the Taluk are:

Educational institutions

Main article: List of educational institutions in Vatakara

There are many schools, colleges and tuition centers in Vatakara.

Amrutha Public School,Pathiyarakkara, Vidya Prakash Public School, Rani Public School, Chorode and Gokulam Public School are the 4 main private schools in Vadakara.

1.Government College, Madappally Vadakara is a post-graduate campus affiliated with the University of Calicut.

2. The 62nd Regional Centre of the Indira Gandhi National Open University, Vadakara was established at Vatakara in January 2011, serving students from the Malabar region, including the Kasargod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Malappuram districts.

3. College of Engineering Vatakara

College of Engineering Vadakara is an engineering college in Kozhikode district of Kerala, established in 1999. The first engineering college under the Co-operative Academy of Professional Education, Thiruvananthapuram, established by Govt. of Kerala, started functioning in June 1999.

4. Model Polytechnic College

Model Polytechnic College, Vadakara is running under the Institute of Human Resources Development established by Government of Kerala.

5. Government Technical High School was established in 1965 and it is managed by the Department of Education. It is located in urban area. It is located in VATAKARA ...

6. Busthaniya Women's College

Notable residents

Tourism

Sargaalaya Crafts Village

Sargaalaya Crafts Village at Iringal, Vadakara sells traditional local art and crafts.

Sandbanks Beach

Local beaches include Sandbanks and Kolavipalam Beach at Kolavipalam between Vatakara and Payyoli, to the south of the Murad River. Sandbanks Beach features the Sandbanks Beach Park operated by KTDC.

Kunjali Marakkar Museum-

The Kunjali Marakkar Museum is located at about 1.5 km from the Sargaalaya Craft Village, at Kottakkal, Iringal (working hours: 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. and Monday is a holiday). It is the old residence of a legendary warrior, who fought valiantly against the Portuguese invaders. Marakkars are believed to be originally Moplas of Malabar, probably differing in exact origin and sub sect and have been traders by profession. The title of Marakkar possibly also derived from the ‘Malayala’ word, marak-kalam, meaning boat . We can learn from history that the Muslim Naval Chief of the Zamorin (Samoothiri) Kingdom of Calicut (Kozhikode), namely the Kutti Mohammed Ali was bestowed the title of Kunjali in 1507. He was later succeeded by Kutti Pokker Ali (Kunhali II) and then, by the famed supporter of Kunhali II, namely Patu Marakkar (Kunhali III) and subsequently, the nephew of Kunhali III, by name Mohammed Marakar became Kunhali IV. These four Kunhali Marakkars have played such a prominent role in the Zamorin's naval wars with the Portuguese from 1502 to 1600 that they are accredited with the honour of organizing the first naval defense of the Indian coast.

Once you enter the massive gates with the ‘sword and shield’ insignia emblazoned on black cast iron door, a small and well-maintained garden with bright flowers, a porch and a handsome cottage and the Museum, renovated in 2013 welcome you. A very dedicated and soft-spoken guide is readily available there to narrate the entire episodes with patience. Some of the prominent displays include the model of the forted village of Kottakkal constructed by Kunjali Marakkar III, the arms such as the sword used by Kunjali Marakkar, cannonballs and many other war relics of the country's earliest naval heroes, who led the first successful defense of India's coast against the European sea power.

Payamkuttimala,ECO tourisum

A panoramic view of Vadakara and its surroundings is what Payamkuttimala in Kozhikode district has to offer. Located from Panikkotti on Vadakara – Tiruvallur road, lots of travellers come to the hill station to watch the sunrise and sunset and gaze at the Arabian Sea. Set about 2,000 feet above sea level, the small hillock also houses a Muthappan Madapura and dead laterite rocks.

Lokanarkavu Temple is an ancient Hindu temple situated in Memunda 4 km from Vatakara, in Kozhikode District, North Malabar region of Kerala state of south India. Lokanarkavu is a short form of Lokamalayarkavu which means lokam (world) made of mala (mountain), aaru (river) and kavu (grove). The closest railway station is at Vatakara, which is 5 km from temple. The nearest airport is Kannur airport which is 54 km away.

Pooram is the important festival here and it is conducted with great pomp and show. The week-long festival begins with Kodiyettam (flag hoisting) and concludes with Arattu. The temple dedicated to goddess Durga has great historical importance as Thacholi Othenan, the legendary martial hero of Kerala, used to worship here every day.

Lokanarkavu and Kalarippayattu

Thirty days Mandala Utsavam in Malayalam month Vrischikam (November–December) and Pooram in Malayalam month meenam (March–April) are the annual festival at the Lokanarkavu Bhagavathy Temple. This is the only temple where a peculiar folk dance called Poorakkali is presented during festivals. The dance, resembles the martial art Kalarippayattu. Even today, all Kalaripayattu artists seek the blessings of the deity before their debut due to the association of Lokanarkavu Temple with legendary hero thacholi othenan.

Kakkayam Dam

Kakkayam is a dam site located at Koorachundu in, Kerala. Kakkayam is on the outskirts of the Western Ghats, and Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary, a 7,421-hectare (18,340-acre) abode of wild animals including elephants and bisons. Kakkayam has an abundant wildlife population and is also a trekking and rock climbing destination.

This reservoir is part of the Kuttiyadi Hydro Electric Project and is located at about 750 m (2,460 ft) above sea level. The pen stock runs down from the dam site and goes through various tunnels and hills to the Kuttiyadi Main power house at Kakkayam with an installed capacity of 225MW. Water coming out of this power house is diverted to two small hydro electric projects namely Kuttiyadi Tail Race power house and Kakkayam small hydro electric project with an installed capacity of 3.75 MW and 3 MW respectively.After this the tail water joins the river and is utilized for Peruvannamoozhi Irrigation Project.

Kalleri Kuttichathan Temple.

Kalleri is famous and civilized village area that is belongs to Vatakara taluk, north to Kozhikode. Kalleri is located at Vatakara Thanneerpanthal route 8 km from Vatakara, near Villiappaly. It is a very beautiful place and is suitable for rest with nature.There is a canal at Kalleri, which is a part of Vadakara – Mahi canal. Land of Kalleri is encircled by Kallerikunnu at west and Aroora mala (mountain) at east. The famous Kalleri Kuttichathan temple located here. Thousands of devotees are visiting this temple every week.

Kottathuruthi Bhagavathi Temple

Kottathuruthi Bhagavathi temple is one of the beautiful temple in Kerala situated near the Arabian Sea. This temple is located in a small island called Kottathuruthi. It is an island village situated in the Kuttyadi river near Moorad bridge.

See also

References

  1. "Census of India: Search Details".
  2. "ആമുഖം | Vadakara Municipality". www.vadakaramunicipality.in (in Malayalam). Retrieved 16 November 2018.
  3. Kadathanad Royal Dinasty, August 2009
  4. Lokanarkavu Temple
  5. A shrine for the heroes of Vadakkan Pattukal - Lokanarkavu
  6. Vishnudattan, N. K.; Nandan, S. Bijoy; Hansen, J. G.; Jayachandran, P. R. (2021). "A new Tardigrade species, Stygarctus keralensis sp. nov. (Arthrotardigrada: Stygarctidae) from the intertidal zone of Southwest coast of India". Zootaxa. 4985 (3): 381391. doi:10.11646/zootaxa.4985.3.5. PMID 34186802. S2CID 235688035.
  7. "Maps, Weather, and Airports for Badagara, India". www.fallingrain.com.
  8. "Vatakara". Keralata Tourism.
  9. Logan, William (2010). Malabar Manual (Volume-I). New Delhi: Asian Educational Services. pp. 631–666. ISBN 9788120604476.
  10. The Hindu staff reporter (21 November 2011). "Neeleswaram fete to showcase its heritage". The Hindu. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
  11. Logan, William (2009). Malabar manual. Low Price Publications. ISBN 978-8175364752. OCLC 946063221.
  12. "Census of India 2001: Data from the 2001 Census, including cities, villages and towns (Provisional)". Census Commission of India. Archived from the original on 16 June 2004. Retrieved 1 November 2008.
  13. "ULCCS LTD". ulccsltd.com.
  14. "CLIMATE: VATAKARA", Climate-Data.org. Web: .
  15. Meethal, Amiya (25 October 2015). "Rediscovering the historic Lokanarkavu temple". Deccan Chronicle. Retrieved 26 November 2019.
  16. Sree, K. M. (7 December 2018). "Kerala: Payamkutty Mala hill set for a makeover". The Times of India. Retrieved 26 November 2019.
  17. "Vadakara Sand Banks Beach at Kozhikode". Kerala Tourism.
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