Kerala Tradition & Fascinating Destinations 2014 Kerala Tradition & Destinations 2014 | 页面 296

Thirunavaya Venue for Mamankam Thirunavaya: (8 km South of Tirur) Situated on the banks of the Bharathapuzha, this was one of the Venues for Mamankam, a grand assembly of the rulers of Kerala, held once in every 12 years. This extravagant festival was conducted for the last time in 1755. Today, Thirunavaya is the venue for the annual Sarvodaya Mela. The Thirunavaya Navamukunda Temple is also a famous pilgrim centre. During Karkidakavavu, people flock at the banks of Bharathapuzha here, to perform the Pithrukriya for departed souls. The site of Melpathur Illam, the home of great poet, Melppatthur Narayana Bhattathiri, author of Narayaneeyam, is about 2 miles from here. Ph: 0494 2603747 Vettakkorumakan Temple: This famous Temple is located in Nilambur and the renowned Nilambur pattu festival is held here. Tanur: The samll coastal fishing town of Tanur was one of the earliest settlements of the Portuguese. It is believed that St. Francis Xavier visited the place in 1546. About 3 kms South of Tanur town is Keraladeshapuram Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and believed to be one of the oldest temples in Kerala. Padinharekara Beach: At the end of the Tipu Sulthan road near Ponnani, the beach offers a breathtaking view of the confluence of the Bharathapuzha, the Tirur Puzha and the Arabian Sea. 294 MALAPPURAM|TRADITION AND DESTINATIONS