Opening Hours: 5:00 am-10:30 am; 5:00 pm- 7:30 pm
Prime Day & Hours: Tuesdays and Fridays; 7:00 am to 9:00 am, 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm
Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
Tickets: Free entry
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station, about 25 km
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport, about 33 km
Nearest Bus Stop: Kozhikode Bus Stand, about 6 km
The historic Varrakal Devi Temple is located on the rocky terrain off the coast of Kozhikode Beach. It is believed that the temple was the 108th and the last devi temple founded by Lord Parasurama. According to the legend, he ploughed the area to impress Goddess Durga. Impressed by his devotion, the goddess blessed the area while he performed the Vavu Bali ritual here. It is a definite addition to your Kerala tour packages.
The temple was initially neglected, and later was revitalised by the Perumals and furthermore by the Zamorians, who later designated it as a Mahakshethran.
Inside the temple, you can explore the unique cave structure called Guhas, which includes ancient formations and carvings. You can also enjoy the smashing of waves against the shores while descending from the stairs of the sanctum, providing for a divine and serene experience.
• Give in to the divine at the Karakkal Devi Temple, believed to be 108th and the last devi temple built by Lord Parasurama.
• Enjoy the beautiful Varakkal beach, the flowing water and the hilltop setting of the temple, adding to the rich and serene ambience.
• Partake in the unique and widely popular ritual of Vavu Bali, held on the no-moon days of Thulam and Karkidakam, on the Beach.
• Pray to one of many deities present at the temple, like Goddess Bhagavathy being the main deity and sub-deities including Ganapati, Dakshinamoorthy, and Sree Ayyappan.
• Explore the rare cave structure called Guhas and a pond within a rock, believed to have been created by Parasurama for the Devi's puja.
By car/taxi: Varakkal Devi Temple is about 6 km away from the Kozhikode city centre via Kannur Road. It will take you around 20 minutes to get there.
Peak Season (October to March):
Moderate Season (June to October):
Low Season (March to May):
Know Before You Go
Seek the blessings of the goddess Varakkal Bhagwati, the main deity presiding at the temple. Devotees believe the goddess grants strength, protection, and fulfilment of wishes.
The temple being walking distance from the beach gives a perfect opportunity to offer your prayers, meditate and enjoy the beautiful sunrise at the Varakkal Beach. You can also enjoy one of the many delicacies at the local stalls for a complete day of fun.
Varakkal Devi Temple is famous for being the 108th and the last Devi temple consecrated by Lord Parsuram. It has a long history and popular local folklore, which elevates its cultural significance amongst locals.
The main ritual performed at the Varakkal Devi Temple is Vavu Bali. It takes place on the beach when the sea is calm in October/November, and during the Navratri festival. Vavu Bali is an event where the devotees offer prayers for departed souls.
The Varakkal Devi Temple is located on the west hill off the coast of Kozhikode Beach. Its proximity to the beach and the ambience add to the charm of the place.