Neeliyar Kottam resides within a sacred grove at Mangattuparamba opposite to Kannur University Campus on the Dharmasala-Ozhakrom Road in Kerala. What sets this Kottam apart is its distinctive feature—its sanctum lacks a roof. Theyyam of Neeliyar Bhagavathy is performed daily evening at around 5:00 PM.
According to legend, the Goddess arrived with a Kalikattu priest upon his return from Kottiyoor. She expressed a desire to be enshrined in this jungle locale, where leopards and cattle coexisted harmoniously. The remnants of a leopard den can still be observed in close proximity to the Kottam. The enchanting ambiance enveloping the Kottam elevates it to a revered site of ancient worship.
There are small ponds and steps inside the sacred grove. The
entire small forested area is well-protected. Numerous birds, animals and serpents
can be seen in the sacred grove.