Kottakkal
Kottakkal (12 km from Malappuram) is a town whose name has now become synonymous for the Arya Vaidyasala. The vaidyashala was established in the year 1902 by vaidyratnam PS Varier and is one of the earliest one to offer ayurvedic treatment. The vaidyashala has both a free as well as a non charitable hospital that treat around 500000 people every year. For tourists interested in the treatment, it is advisable that an advance booking be made because the rush is always great here.
Around a km away from the vaidyashala is the PSV Natyasangam Kathakali School. The Dance School was also established by PS Varier and is best visited during the months of July August. Students here sometimes like to display their art form before the tourists. Close to this School is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Venkattathevar Temple. The highlight are the 64 mural paintings that adorn the walls of the temple. The temple is open from 5 to 10.30 am and then from 4 to 7.30 am.