Believed to have been built by Sage Parasurama, the fifth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Andalur Kavu is a renowned Lord Rama temple located in Dharmadam village, Kannur district. This temple is famous for its annual Theyyam festival called Kaliyattam, which is deeply rooted in the stories of the epic Ramayana.

During the festival, more than ten Theyyams are performed, each representing different characters from the Ramayana. Daivathar Theyyam represents Lord Rama, Bappuran Theyyam represents Lord Hanuman, and Angakkaran Theyyam represents Lord Lakshmana. The festival also includes Athiraalar and Makkalum Theyyam, representing Goddess Sita and her twins, Lava and Kusha, while Ilankuruvan and Poothadi Theyyams depict Bali and Sugriva, respectively. The artists performing these Theyyams hail from the Peruvannan and Munnoottan communities.

The Kaliyattam festival takes place in the Malayalam month of Kumbham, which falls in February-March. This seven-day event transforms Andalur Kavu into a vibrant cultural hub, attracting numerous devotees and visitors who come to witness the spectacular performances. The entire village observes vegetarianism and actively participates in the rituals and customs associated with the festival.

Andalur Kavu features two sacred sites: Mele Kavu (upper temple) and Thazhe Kavu (lower temple). According to legend, a spark from the chaapa khandam (broken bow) of Lord Rama during Sita Swayamvaram fell at Thazhe Kavu and split into three. Sage Narada, sensing the power of this spark, instructed Lord Parasurama to install three deities to represent Daivathar, Angakkaran, and Bappuran.

The temple also houses a museum that provides an overview of the Theyyam performances at Andalur Kavu and its history. Visitors can explore a miniature version of the temple complex and view a life-size idol of Theyyam. The Andalur Kavu Theyyam festival is a vibrant blend of mythology and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit event for those interested in experiencing the rich traditions of Kerala.