Theyyam season in North Malabar
Late Oct–May; busiest Dec–Mar (Malayalam calendar)
Theyyam is not one festival but a season of hundreds of ritual performances, each held at a kavu or family shrine on dates set by local tradition. The season begins around the tenth day of the Malayalam month of Thulam, in late October, and ends in Edavam, around May or June. The busiest weeks, with performances almost every night across Kannur and Kasaragod districts, are from December to March.
There are hundreds of Theyyam forms, honouring mother goddesses, heroes, ancestors, spirits and forms of Shiva and Vishnu, each with its own costume, make-up and songs. Performers come from hereditary communities and train from childhood. During the ritual, the performer is believed to become the deity, and devotees approach to seek blessing and advice. Some forms involve fire, and some shrines include animal sacrifice.
Schedules are known locally, often only days ahead, so a guide with community links is essential. We plan two or three Theyyam nights over a stay of three nights in Kannur or Bekal, choosing performances to suit you. For a guaranteed performance outside the season, the Muthappan Theyyam at Parassinikadavu takes place every day of the year.
How to do it well
- Dress modestly and remove shoes near the shrine.
- Never use flash or block the performer's path; follow the shrine committee's instructions.
- Bring a small torch, water and a light shawl for the small hours.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
When is Theyyam season?
From about the tenth day of Thulam, in late October, to Edavam, around May or June, following the Malayalam calendar. Performances are most frequent from December to March. Dates are set by each shrine, so check current status before you travel. The Parassinikadavu Muthappan Theyyam happens daily all year.
Where is Theyyam performed?
Mainly in Kannur and Kasaragod districts of North Malabar, with some forms in northern Kozhikode and parts of coastal Karnataka. Performances take place in kavus, sacred groves, and family or community shrines in villages, rather than in large temples or theatres.
Can tourists attend Theyyam?
Yes. Theyyam is held in open shrine grounds and visitors are generally welcome if they behave respectfully. Go with a guide who knows the community, dress modestly and follow local customs. Remember that it is a religious ritual, not a performance staged for tourists.
How long does a Theyyam last?
A single Theyyam can last several hours, and a shrine's festival often includes several forms over one or more nights, continuing until dawn. Visitors can come and go. We usually arrive for the make-up at dusk and stay until midnight or later, depending on your energy.
Festival journeys
Routes built around the calendar
