Located in Kerala’s Kannur district, Madayi Kavu is a powerful temple dedicated to Goddess Madayikkavilamma, revered for Her ability to dispel sorcery and dark energies.
According to one legend, Madayikkavilamma defeated demon Darika and established her temple on Madayippara Hill. Another story says she initially lived in Rajarajeshwara Temple but requested her own shrine due to her 'non-vegetarian' nature.
Legend has it that Lord Shiva, impressed by Madayikkavilamma’s strength, asked Parashurama to consecrate a temple in her honour. Parashurama created Madayippara and enshrined the goddess on this sacred land.
During the invasion by Hyder Ali, nearby temples had been destroyed. Madayi Kavu was desecrated too, sparking a courageous response from a local warrior, Vengayil Chathukutty, who defended the temple's sanctity.
Madayi Kavu houses various shrines. Besides the main goddess, sub-shrines honour Sapthamathrukkal (the seven divine mothers), Lord Ganesha, Kshethrapaalan, Lord Shastha, and more.
Unlike typical Kerala temples, Madayi Kavu follows the Koula sampradaya tradition. The temple priests, Podavar Brahmins, are a unique sect associated with Kali worship and are not restricted from consuming meat.
In a rare tradition, Madayi Kavu offers meat, particularly chicken, to the deity as prasad. This practice is unique among Kerala temples.
The temple remains open from 4:30 am to 12 noon during the morning hours, and from 5 pm to 7 pm in the evening. The Usha Pooja time is 5 am, while Uchha Pooja takes place at 11:30 am, and Sandhya Pooja at 6:15 pm.
The unique temple is located in Kannur district, and the nearest airport is the Kannur International Airport that is nearly 50 km away. The nearest railway station is Payangadi, which is 2.6 km from the place, while the Kannur station is located 24 km away.