Sree Mahalingeswara Temple is an ancient and important Shiva temple in Adoor, Kasaragod. The present temple is associated with the 13th century and is situated in a peaceful, green setting beside the Payaswini River.

The temple is dedicated primarily to Lord Shiva, worshipped in the form of a Shiva Linga. Local tradition connects the temple with the Kiratha Yudham, the legendary encounter between Lord Shiva and Arjuna from the Mahabharata. According to the tradition, Arjuna built the temple after receiving Lord Shiva’s blessing.

The temple is especially notable for its three-tiered, elephant-back-shaped (Gaja Prishtha) architecture, traditional tiled roof, laterite walls, intricate wooden carvings, and colourful paintings depicting Hindu mythology. An ancient inscription in Sanskrit written in Kannada script adds to its historical importance.

The annual festival is celebrated around February–March, while Makara Sankranti is also an important occasion at the temple.