Vadakkanthara Bhagavathy Temple, also known by the name Thirupuraikkal Bhagavathy Temple, is one of the famous pilgrim centres in Palakkad. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kannagi, who is mentioned in the Tamil ancient literature, Silapathikaram. The legend goes like this, Kannagi was the faithful wife of Kovalan and Kovalan was put to death by the king of Madurai for a theft case. Kannagi demanded justice for her husband, who was later found not guilty of the accusations. Enraged Kannagi burnt the whole town of Madurai in her vengeance, and settled down as a Goddess in Kodungallur.
Upon her journey to Kodungallur, she took rest under a fig tree in Palakkad. An idol was built on her resting place. Since no roof was built over the idol of the Goddess, she came to be known as Thiru Purakkal Bhagavathy. Even in heavy rainfalls or monsoon seasons, the oils burnt in front of the idol are not known to have put out. Vadakkanthara Vela, which takes place in the month of February-March is the major festival of the temple. Thousands of devotees throng the temple courtyard to worship the powerful goddess, especially on Tuesdays and Fridays. For the religious relevance and sprawling Kerala, architectural excellence visitors find this temple best for a pilgrimage.
