Thacholi Manikkoth Temple is situated about 2 km from
Vadakara in
Kozhikode District of
Kerala. This beautiful shrine is dedicated to
Thacholi Othenan, the paragon of
Kalaripayattu. Vadakara was the birth place of this legendary hero of Vadakkanpattu (ballads of North Malabar).
A two-day annual festival held at the temple is a major draw. It begins with a spectacular performance of the Thira (a ritual dance) and a procession for bringing the holy lamp from the Lokanarkavu Temple. On the second day, one more procession is held in which the sword of Othenan is brought to the temple. During these festive occasions, thirayattam, thacholi kali and other ancient martial art forms are performed.
Vadakara is about 48 km north of Kozhikode. Vadakara Railway Station, the nearest railhead, is on the Kozhikode-Mangalore line.
