Believed to be the 108th and final Devi temple consecrated by Lord Parasurama, it is one of the most ancient temples in Kerala, with origins traced back to the Treta Yuga.
According to lore, Parasurama created the site by ploughing the rocky terrain to please Goddess Durga, who blessed it with her presence. He is also said to have performed Vavu Bali here, honoring the souls of those he vanquished.
Located at West Hill, about 4 km from Kozhikode town, the temple is famed for its Kerala-style architecture, spiritual ambiance, and scenic views of the Arabian Sea.
A long stairway leads devotees to the sanctum, where the radiant idol of Durga Devi, believed to be installed by Parasurama himself, is worshipped. Sub-deities include Ganapathy, Dakshinamoorthy, and Ayyappan. The compound also features a natural cave (Guhas) and a pond carved into a rock, used for Devi’s rituals.
The temple gained prominence during the reign of the Perumals and later under the Zamorins, who declared it a Mahakshethram. Celebrated festivals include Navarathri and Vavu Bali, a major ancestral ritual performed on the beach during Karkidakam and Thulam. Notably, the sea remains calm on these days, aiding smooth conduct of the rites.
A vital stop on the Dakshin Pilgrimage and for Sabarimala-bound Ayyappa devotees, the temple is open daily from 5:00 AM–12:00 PM and 5:30 PM–8:00 PM, preserving Kozhikode’s spiritual heritage.
How To Reach
By Road: 4 km from Kozhikode Town; easily accessible by bus, taxi, or auto.
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station – 6 km
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport – 27 km
