Kottakkal is a world-renounced center of Ayurveda. Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine followed in Kerala, has been found to be very effective in treating many major illness and health complaints. The Arya Vaidya Sala, established by P.S. Warrier, the well-known physician and social reformer. People from different parts of the world come for treatment; Art and culture also flourish in Kottakkal at the patronage of Arya Vaidya Sala. The massages and therapies offered at the centre are most rejuvenating and relaxing. P.S.V. Natyasanghom has a unique place in Kathakali. A Kathakali School is run by the Sanghom.

Annual Seminar on Ayurveda and other branches of medicine, conducted as a pert of founder’s day of Arya Vaidya Sala, are attented by experts from abroad also. A medicinal herbal garden, maintained by the Vaidya sala is a rare treasure.

There is an Ayurveda College at Kottakkal. The Govt. of Kerala runs the only Ayurveda Mental Hosptal of the state, here. Kottakkal is 12 Kms. west of Malappuram. National Highway-17 passes through Kottakkal. The distance from there to Calicut Airport is 13 kms, and to Tirur Railway station is 16 Kms. The famous Kadampuzha Devi Temple is not far from Kottakkal, where devotees in and out of Kerala, come and pray to remove obstruction in life.