KOZHIKODE

Kozhikode also known as Calicut, is a city in the state of Kerala in southern India on the Malabar coast. Kozhikode is the largest urban area in the state and 195th largest urban area in the world. During classical antiquity and the Middle Ages, Kozhikode was dubbed the “City of Spices” for its role as the major trading point of Eastern spices. It was the capital of an independent kingdom ruled by the Samoothiris(Zamorins) in the Middle Ages and later the capital of the erstwhile Malabar district under British rule.

Kozhikode is a town with a long recorded history. From time immemorial, the city has attracted travellers with its prosperity. It has traded in spices like black pepper and cardamom with Jews, Arabs, Phoenicians, and Chinese for more than 500 years. As Kozhikode offered full freedom and security, the Arab and the Chinese merchants preferred it to all other ports. Kozhikode was the capital of Malabar during the time of Sri Samoothiri Maharajas, who ruled the region before the British took over. The city’s first recorded contact with Europe was when Vasco da Gama docked at Kappad (18 km north) in May 1498, among the leaders of a trade mission from Portugal.

POPULAR TOURIST SPOTS

Kozhikode Beach

Calicut beach happens to be an ideal location for tourists.The beach not only offers the best sunrise and sunset views but every year in January, the beach also plays a great host to one of the biggest festivals called the Malabar Mahotsavam.

Kozhippara Falls

The stunning Kozhippara Falls is located on the borders of Kakkadampoyli at the district division of Malappuram and Calicut. You will encounter numerous trekking groups here. The serene ambiance of this falls enhances the beauty of this place.

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary

A cluster of scenic islands, beautiful hills and rare avian species would intrigue and entice every birdwatcher on the planet. This is exactly what the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary has to offer its visitors. A small hill nearby gives you a panoramic view of the entire region.

Vayalada View Point

It is situated at a height of about 567 meters above sea level and 38kms away from Kozhikode city. The main attraction on Vayalada is the view from its top. From the top below the clouds we can see the green land sorounded by water. Dam view point is the main attraction in this place.

Sargaalaya Arts and Crafts Village

Sargaalaya, the Kerala Arts and Crafts village at Iringal in Kerala is an initiative of the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala. It is an exclusive place where you can not only pick a product fashioned by the traditional artisans of Kerala but also learn one or two lessons in the subtleties of crafts-making.

Pazhassi Raja Museum & Art Gallery

The Pazhassi Raja Museum and Art Gallery is one of the best places to visit in Calicut. Named after the famous ruler Pazhassi Raja who fought the British with the help of tribes, the museum displays a variety of monuments, mural paintings, and old coins. The museum is managed by the State Archaeology Department.