Thodeekalam Siva Temple

Thodeekalam Siva Temple is located near Kannavam in Kannur district, Kerala, about two kilometres from Kannavam. The ancient shrine is dedicated to Lord Siva, locally referred to as Perumal, and is especially valued for its remarkable collection of mural paintings. Kerala Tourism and DTPC Kannur describe roughly 150 mural works arranged in numerous panels around the sanctum, illustrating Shaiva-Vaishnavite stories and episodes from traditional mythology.

The paintings are noted for the use of natural colours and are associated with a long artistic tradition in the region. The temple also forms part of the wider historical landscape connected with Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja; nearby Madathilvalappil is remembered in accounts of his resistance to the British. The Archaeology Department has taken an active role in protecting the temple and its artwork.

For visitors, Thodeekalam offers a rare combination of living worship, mural art, traditional architecture and North Malabar history, making it particularly worthwhile for those interested in Kerala's visual heritage.