Vadakara is the third largest town of North Malabar. Originally known as Vadakkekara (north shore) due to its position with respect to the Kottakkal puzha came to be called as Vatakara later. This city is also known as Badagara. Vadakara was a flourishing trade and commerce centre in ancient times.It has a rich heritage being the birth place of Thacholi Othenan - the legendary martial hero of the Vadakkanpattu (ballads of North Malabar). Lokanarkavu temple dedicated to goddess Bhadrakaali located 5 kms from Vadakara has great historical importance as Thacholi Othenan used to worship here every day. This is the only temple where a peculiar folk dance called Thacholikali is presented during festivals. The dance, performed during the festival resembles the martial art Kalarippayattu. Even today, all Kalarippayattu artists seek the blessings of the deity before their debut.

Vadakara is the third largest town of North Malabar. Originally known as Vadakkekara (north shore) due to its position with respect to the Kottakkal puzha came to be called as Vatakara later. This city is also known as Badagara. Vadakara was a flourishing trade and commerce centre in ancient times.It has a rich heritage being the birth place of Thacholi Othenan - the legendary martial hero of the Vadakkanpattu (ballads of North Malabar). Lokanarkavu temple dedicated to goddess Bhadrakaali located 5 kms from Vadakara has great historical importance as Thacholi Othenan used to worship here every day. This is the only temple where a peculiar folk dance called Thacholikali is presented during festivals. The dance, performed during the festival resembles the martial art Kalarippayattu. Even today, all Kalarippayattu artists seek the blessings of the deity before their debut.