Thali Shiva Temple, Kozhikode

Kozhikode, Kerala

Thali Shiva Temple in Kozhikode is a revered and time-honoured place of worship that continues to inspire deep devotion among countless devotees. Surrounded by a serene atmosphere and enriched with cultural charm, the temple stands as a symbol of faith, tradition, and community bonding. Its sacred premises have witnessed generations of prayers, festivals, and rituals that reflect the spiritual heartbeat of the region. Visitors are often drawn not only by the temple’s divine presence but also by its beautiful surroundings, intricate craftsmanship, and the sense of peace it offers. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking blessings or a traveller exploring heritage sites, Thali Shiva Temple remains an unmissable spiritual landmark that speaks of the region’s enduring cultural and religious legacy. As part of the broader heritage of Famous temples in Kerala, it continues to attract devotees and travellers alike.

Thali Shiva Temple History and Significance

The Tali Shiva Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kozhikode. It was built by Swamy Thirumulapad. The temple's sanctity is closely linked with the founding and prosperity of Kozhikode city. The lingam in the sanctum was installed by Sri Parasurama towards the end of Dvapara Yuga. The temple reached its zenith during the rule of the Zamorin of Calicut in the 14th century.

The temple was almost damaged when Tipu Sultan invaded Kozhikode in the 18th century. It was renovated in 1964. The Revathi Pattathanam function started at this temple, attracting eminent people and philosophers. During the 15th and 16th centuries, eighteen poets attended this function. Some historians believe the temple was made even before the city was built.

Thali Shiva Temple Pooja Timing
Thali Shiva Temple Interesting Facts
Thali Shiva Temple Nearby Temples
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Thali Shiva Temple Pooja Timing

Pooja Name	Timings
Nirmalyam	4:30 AM
Usha Pooja	6:00 AM
Ucha Pooja	12:00 PM
Athazha Pooja	7:30 PM

Thali Shiva Temple Location Details

How to Reach Thali Shiva Temple

By Road:

Kozhikode is well-connected by road to major towns in Kerala. State Transport Buses and private taxis operate regularly to Kozhikode, making it easy to reach the temple.

By Train:

Nearest railway stations: Kozhikode Railway Station. From this station, buses or taxis are available to reach the Thali Shiva Temple in Kozhikode.

By Air:

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Kozhikode city, which is the closest town to the temple.

Thali Shiva Temple Nearby Temples

Best time to visit (season/months):

October to March. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall. Summers can be hot and humid, so winter months are ideal for a comfortable visit.

Other Shiva Temples

Legends Beliefs

Legends and BeliefsThe Tali Shiva Temple is believed to have a Jyothirlingam installed by Parasurama. The temple's sanctum posture is that of Umamaheswara. The temple is surrounded by the Palayam market and is one km east of Kozhikode railway station. It was the family temple of the Zamorins who ruled Kozhikode. The Zamorin is still the managing trustee.
Deities and Sub Deities

Deities and Sub-DeitiesThe main deity of the temple is Shiva. Inside the Sree Kovil, deities of Tali Ganapathy, Thevarathil Ganapathy, and Thrumandhakunnu Bhagavathy are installed. Outside the Shiva Temple, deities of Sree Krishna, Thevarathil Bhagavathy, Ayyappa, Sri Vishnu, and Nagam are installed. Sree Valayanad Bhagavati idol is installed inside the Sree Krishna Temple. There is also a small Narasimha Moorthy temple on the southern side of the Sri Vishnu Temple.
Offerings

OfferingsDevotees offer various traditional items to the deities. These include flowers, fruits, and coconuts. Special poojas and rituals are conducted during festivals and auspicious days. Devotees also offer oil for the temple lamps and participate in the daily rituals.
Architecture

ArchitectureThe temple is built in traditional Kerala architectural style. The two-storied sanctum-sanctorum is in the shape of a chariot. It is adorned with murals and granite sculptures of Shiva’s retinue. The temple is protected by large walls on all sides, resembling an elephant's belly. The complex includes fine granite sculptures depicting various stories from the Puranas.The temple has four main parts: the Dwajastambam (flag poles), Anakottil (flag staff platform), gopurams (large gateways), and Deepasthambhum (lighting pillars). The various temples within the complex include Sivakshetram, Nalambalam, and Krishnakshetram.
Festivals

FestivalsThe main festival celebrated at the Tali Shiva Temple is Maha Shivaratri. Another significant festival is Revathi Pattathanam, a seven-day cultural program held in October or November. The largest festival occurs during the Malayalam New Year, lasting for seven days. During this time, people worship Shiva and participate in various rituals and celebrations.
Religious Practices

Religious PracticesDevotees follow traditional dress codes when visiting the temple. Men are required to wear a Veshti instead of a shirt, and western attire is not allowed. The temple timings are from 4:30 AM to 11:00 AM in the morning and from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM in the evening. Various poojas and rituals are conducted daily, and special ceremonies are held during festivals and auspicious days.

FAQ's

Where is the Thali Shiva Temple located?

The Thali Shiva Temple is located in Kozhikode, Kerala, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Kozhikode district.

Which God is Shiva?

Shiva is a major Hindu deity.

What is the best time to visit Thali Shiva Temple?

October to March. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall. Summers can be hot and humid, so winter months are ideal for a comfortable visit.

How to reach Thali Shiva Temple from near City or Town?

Nearest railway stations: Kozhikode Railway Station. From this station, buses or taxis are available to reach the Thali Shiva Temple in Kozhikode. Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Kozhikode city, which is the closest town to the temple.