Vadakara or Badakara, formerly known as Vadakkekara (north shore) because of its position on the shores of the Kotakkal river ( Moorad river or Kuttiadi river), is a small coastal town located 48 km north of Kozhikode. It was the capital of old Kurumbranadu that was inhabited by the Kurumbrar tribal folk.

Vadakara is famous as the birth place of Thacholi Othenan, the legendary hero of the ballads of North Malabar (Vadakkan pattukal). The Thacholi Tharavadu and Thacholi Manikkoth, the kalari where Thacholi Othenan practiced his martial feats and spent long days in deep meditation are places worth visiting. Kottakkal which was the birth place of Kunjali Marakkar, the admiral of the Zamorins who had resisted the Portuguese, is also at Vadakara. A small hut that belonged to Kunhali Marakkar with collections of ancient swords, canon balls and knives can be seen here.

Kottakkal Bhagavathy temple, renowned for its Thera festival is in the heart of the town. The spiritual center, Sidhasramam that has many branches in and out side Kerala is also located at here. The famous Lokanarkavu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga is located 4 km away from Vadakara.