Mallikarjuna Temple Kasargod Festival in Kerala

Bekal fort, the largest and the best-preserved fort in Kerala, lies in Pallikere, and its 16 Kms south of Kasaragod on the national highway at the northern tip of the state. The fort, a circular imposing structure of laterite rising 130 ft. above sea level, stands on a 35 acre headland that runs into the Arabian sea.

Interesting things to Visit

Bekal fort:

Bekal Hole Aqua Park:

Bekal Hole Aqua Park is located near Valiyaparamba in Bekal. It is the perfect place water sport freaks who wish to chill out amidst an array of unique water sports.

Bekal Beach:

Bekal is a beach destination of the future. It has long palm-fringed beaches and a rocky headland topped by the huge Bekal fort. This beach is being developed a resort. But for now, you can still savour the touch of history as you view the serene Lakshadweep Sea from the tall observation towers of the fort’s once huge cannon emplacements. Bekal Beach is situated at the northern tip of Kerala, Bekal is a beach destination of the future. It has long palm-fringed beaches and a rocky headland topped by the huge Bekal fort.

Hosdurg Beach:

Located 12 kms south of Bekal is the Hosdurg beach. It is home to the many marvelous forts in Kasargode District. The Hosdurg Fort built by the Ikkeri Nayaks in mid-16th century draws the closest attention of the visitors.

Kappil Beach:

The secluded Kappil Beach is loacted 6 kms to the north of Bekal. The long stretch is wide and clean enough for swimming and beach walking. The beach has the massive rock, the Kodi Cliff, which act as a resting place for the visitors.

Valiyaparamba Backwaters:

Valiyaparamba is a backwater draw out situated in the district of Kasargod of Kerala. Circulated by 4 rivers flecked by quit number of small islands, Valiyaparamba is incredibly growing as an excellent backwater resort which grants captivating boat cruises. Valiyaparamba, a piece of land dissevered from the solid ground is a significant and notable fishing centre. The Valiyaparamba is just some few kilometers away from Bekal, where it just takes little hour’s of ride to reach the place.

Chandragiri River:

Chandragiri River is Located in Southeast of Kasaragod town on the banks of the Chandragiri river, Kasaragod district, north Kerala.The river originates in a village called Koinadu of Kodagu district in Karnataka state. Chandragiri fort lies three km south of Kasargod town.

Madhur Sreemad Anantheswara Vinayaka Temple:

The madhur Sreemad Anantheswara Temple is located 8 kilometers northeast of Kasaragod town on the banks of the Madhuvahini River. The main attractions in the temple are its unique three-tiered dome, copper-plated roofing and a cloistered court rises. This temple is dedicated to Mahaganapathi. The idol here made of alluvial soil. This idol was later installed in the temple and thats how the Madhur Mahalingeswara Temple (dedicated to Lord Siva) became Madhur Mahaganapathi Temple. It is one of the most important Ganapathy temples in South India. People from all over South India throng in to the temple during the time of festivals happen here. The temple offers Veda classes to young students.

Mapilathody Jama Masjid:

This masjid is very old and run by Ansarul Islam Committee. The reconstruction in the year 2005.

Help Line/Phone Number

Police Station:

Bekal police station
Bekal, Kerala.

Police Station
Puttur, Dakshina Kannada
Karnataka.

Police Station
Ullal, Dakshina Kannada
Karnataka.

Police Station
Bantwal, Karnataka.

Kadri Police Station
Mangalore, Dakshina Kannada
Karnataka.

Nearest Hospital:

Malik Deenar Charitable Hospital
Kasaragod, Kasaragod
Kerala.

Government Hospital
Kasaragod, Kasaragod
Kerala.

AJ Hospital
Kuntikana, Bejai, Mangalore
Karnataka 575004
0824 2225533.

EK Nayanar Memorial Co-Operative Hospital
Chengala, Kasaragod
Kerala.

Government Hospital
Kasaragod, Kerala.

Location info

Address: Kasargod town, Kasargod District, Kerala, India.
District: Kasargod District
Nearest City: Kanhangad, kudlu, Mangalore and Thiruvallam
Best time to visit: March.

Things to do at Mallikarjuna Temple Kasargod

You can watch in the Yakshagana.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Kerala. 4G is reliable in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, and along the coastal belt. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain backwater stretches. Most hotels, houseboats, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Kerala cuisine — fish curry, appam with stew, puttu, and Kerala sadhya — is widely available and famously delicious.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodation is available in the nearest town or city. Options range from homestays to luxury resorts. Kerala’s homestay network is excellent and offers authentic local experiences.

Climate & weather

Kerala has a tropical monsoon climate with warm, humid conditions year-round. The best time to visit is November to February, when temperatures are a pleasant 22°C–30°C with low humidity and clear skies. March–May is hot and humid (up to 36°C). The southwest monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rainfall — the landscape transforms into lush green and this is the best time for Ayurvedic treatments. The northeast monsoon (October–November) brings shorter showers. Hill stations (Munnar, Wayanad) remain cooler year-round.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Best time to visit Mallikarjuna Temple Kasargod

Mallikarjuna Temple Kasargod takes place according to the Malayalam calendar. The best time to witness this festival is during its scheduled dates, which vary annually. Most Kerala festivals occur between November and May (the dry season). Check the official dates from Kerala Tourism before planning your visit.

How to reach Mallikarjuna Temple Kasargod

Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (CNN) / Mangalore International Airport (IXE) (approximately 40 km). Nearest Railway Station: Kasaragod Railway Station. The destination is well-connected by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses and private taxis from major towns.

Timings & opening hours

Festival timings vary by event. Most temple festivals start in the morning with flag-hoisting ceremonies and continue through the evening with processions, cultural programs, and fireworks. Night processions typically start around 8:00 PM–9:00 PM and continue past midnight.

Entry fee & tickets

Most festival events are free to attend and watch. Processions and temple grounds can be accessed without charge. Special seating for fireworks viewing may cost INR 100–500. Some cultural performances during festivals may have ticketed entry.

Duration needed

Major festivals last 8–10 days. Visitors typically spend 2–3 hours per day watching key events. The main procession day requires 4–6 hours.

Safety tips

Very large crowds gather at Mallikarjuna Temple Kasargod — keep your belongings secure and watch for pickpockets. Arrive early for a good viewing position of processions. Follow the instructions of festival volunteers and police. Keep children close and establish a meeting point in case of separation. Carry water and stay hydrated. Avoid bringing large bags or valuables to crowded festival grounds.

Things to carry

Comfortable shoes for walking and standing (crowds can be very large, seating may not be available), drinking water in a reusable bottle, a hat or cap, sunscreen and umbrella for day events, a light snack, earplugs (processions can be very loud with drums and fireworks), a camera (zoom lens recommended for procession shots), a power bank, and a small bag that can be secured against pickpockets.

Nearby visiting places

Bekal Fort, Kappil Beach, Valiyaparamba Backwaters, Chandragiri Fort, Ananthapura Lake Temple, Malik Dinar Mosque, Hosdurg Fort, Ranipuram

Nearest airport, railway & bus

History of Mallikarjuna Temple Kasargod

Mallikarjuna Temple Kasargod is one of Kerala’s vibrant festivals that showcase the state’s rich cultural and religious diversity. Kerala’s festivals are renowned for their spectacular processions featuring caparisoned elephants, traditional percussion ensembles (pancha vadyam), colourful umbrellas, and fireworks. Many festivals are temple-related and follow the Malayalam calendar, creating a year-round cycle of celebrations that are an integral part of Kerala’s cultural identity. The festival reflects the unique syncretic traditions of Kerala where communities of all faiths participate in each other’s celebrations.

Frequently asked questions

When does this festival take place? — Most Kerala festivals follow the Malayalam calendar (Kollavarsham). Dates vary annually — check the Kerala Tourism website or local sources for exact dates for your travel period. Is the festival free to attend? — Yes, all processions and public events are free. Special seating areas for fireworks or cultural programmes may have ticketed entry. How crowded is it? — Very crowded during major festivals. Large events like Thrissur Pooram attract hundreds of thousands of people. Arrive early, keep belongings secure, and establish meeting points. What should I wear? — Comfortable clothing suitable for standing in crowds. Modest dress is appreciated. Wear comfortable shoes.