Mallikarjuna Temple is one of the oldest and most important temples in Kasaragod. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Mallikarjuna. It is situated in the heart of Kasaragod town, with the Kumbala River flowing close to the southern side.

The temple is believed to date back to the 17th century and was built by the Ikkeri kings to provide a place of worship for warriors who came from Karnataka. According to local tradition, the Shiva idol is associated with Arjuna, one of the Pandavas of the Mahabharata.

The temple complex includes a Sreekovil, Namaskara Mandapam, Chuttambalam and Valiya Balikkal. The inner walls feature colourful paintings of deities and religious figures.

The annual Varshika Mahotsavam is one of the temple’s major celebrations. Yakshagana performances are an important cultural attraction during temple festivities, making Mallikarjuna Temple an important centre of both spirituality and traditional culture in Kasaragod.