Tali Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Kozhikode, Kerala, India. It is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Kerala, dating back to the 14th century. It was built by the Zamorin, the ruler of Kozhikode, within his palace complex. The temple is famous for its annual cultural and intellectual event, Revathy Pattathanam, which attracts scholars and poets from all over India. In this article, we will explore some of the features and attractions of Tali Temple that make it a must-visit place for travelers. Visit during One Day Calicut Local Sightseeing Trip by Private Cab
Location/ Timing / Entry Fees of Tali Temple
Tali Temple is located at Tali Road, about 800 meters from Kozhikode Railway Station. It is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, which is about 22 km away. There are also buses and auto-rickshaws available from the city to the temple.
The temple is open to visitors from 5 am to 12 pm and from 4 pm to 8 pm every day. There is no entry fee for visiting the temple. However, there may be charges for special poojas and offerings.
How to Reach Tali Temple
There are several ways to reach Tali Temple from the city. One of the most convenient and scenic ways is to take a walk along the Tali Road, which starts from the Mananchira Square and ends at the temple. The walk takes about 10 minutes and offers a glimpse of the old city and its heritage buildings. The Tali Road also has some landmarks and monuments along the way, such as the CSI Cathedral, the Commonwealth War Cemetery, the Gandhi Statue, etc.
Another way to reach Tali Temple is to take a bus from the KSRTC bus stand or the Moffusil bus stand in the city. There are frequent buses that ply between the city and the temple. The bus fare is Rs. 10 per person and the journey takes about 5 minutes.
Alternatively, one can also hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from the city to the temple. The taxi fare may vary depending on the distance and traffic, but it usually ranges from Rs. 100 to Rs. 200. The auto-rickshaw fare may be around Rs. 50 to Rs. 100.
Things to Do / Must See Tali Temple
Tali Temple offers a spiritual and cultural experience for visitors of all faiths and interests. Some of the things to do and must see at Tali Temple are:
- Worship Lord Shiva: Tali Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the supreme deities in Hinduism. The temple has a sanctum sanctorum that houses a Shiva lingam, which is believed to be swayambhu (self-manifested). The temple also has shrines for other gods and goddesses such as Ganapati, Subramanya, Parvati, etc. The temple follows a strict dress code and rituals for worshipers. The temple also conducts various poojas and festivals throughout the year.
- Admire the architecture: Tali Temple is a fine example of the Kerala style of architecture, which blends wood and laterite in a harmonious way. The temple has a gopuram (tower) at its entrance that has intricate carvings of gods and goddesses. The temple also has a mandapam (hall) that has wooden pillars with brass reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple also has a nalambalam (outer wall) that has mural paintings of various deities.
- Attend Revathy Pattathanam: Revathy Pattathanam is an annual cultural and intellectual event that is held at Tali Temple for eight days during October-November. It is a tradition that dates back to the Zamorin era, when scholars and poets from all over India gathered at the temple to present their works and receive awards from the Zamorin. The event showcases the rich literary and artistic heritage of Kerala and India.
Significance of Tali Temple
Tali Temple is not only a religious destination but also a historic one. It is here that one can witness the glorious and vibrant legacy of Kozhikode, which was once a flourishing port and a hub of cultural exchange. The temple was built by the Zamorin, who was a benevolent and patronizing ruler of Kozhikode. He invited and welcomed various travelers, traders, and scholars from different parts of the world to his kingdom. He also promoted and supported various arts and sciences in his realm. The temple is a symbol of his generosity and vision.
Tali Temple is also a cultural hub, as it hosts the Revathy Pattathanam, which is a unique and prestigious event in Kerala and India. The event celebrates the intellectual and artistic achievements of Kerala’s eminent scholars and poets. The event also fosters a spirit of learning and dialogue among different schools of thought and disciplines.
FAQ’s
Q: Is Tali Temple suitable for children?
A: Yes, Tali Temple is suitable for children, as it has educational and cultural value for them. The temple teaches them about the history and geography of Kozhikode and Kerala. The temple also offers them a chance to see and learn about various artifacts, paintings, sculptures, etc.
Q: What are the best times to visit Tali Temple?
A: The best times to visit Tali Temple are from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool. The summer months from April to June can be hot and humid, while the monsoon months from July to September can be rainy and windy.
Q: What are some other attractions near Tali Temple?
A: Some other attractions near Tali Temple are:
Kozhikode Beach: A lively and beautiful beach that attracts tourists and locals alike. It is also known as Calicut Beach, as it is located in the city of Kozhikode (also known as Calicut), which is the historical and cultural capital of Malabar.
Pazhassi Raja Museum: A museum and art gallery that showcases the life and legacy of Pazhassi Raja, a brave king and freedom fighter who resisted the British colonialism in the 18th century. The museum also displays the rich cultural and historical heritage of Kozhikode and Kerala.
Mananchira Square: A well-maintained park that surrounds a man-made pond called Mananchira. The park has a musical fountain, an open-air theatre, a library, a mosque, a temple, etc. It is also a venue for various cultural events and festivals.
Conclusion
Tali Temple is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the history, culture, and nature of Kozhikode. It is a place where one can worship Lord Shiva, admire the architecture, attend Revathy Pattathanam, and learn about the past and present of Kozhikode. It is a place that will leave you with unforgettable memories and impressions.
