Discover the of Kozhikode

Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Kozhikode, a coastal gem in Kerala. Enjoy stunning landscapes and indulge in the legendary spice trade’s culinary delights.

Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a charming coastal city in Kerala, India with a past rich in history, a vibrant cultural heritage, and a stunning landscape. Known as the land of the legendary spice trade, Kozhikode is an excellent destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, nature, and culinary delights.

Here’s a list of some of the tourist hotspots to visit in Kozhikode:

Historical Landmarks:

Tali Shiva Temple: The Tali Shiva temple was built by the Samoothiri or Zamorin, the erstwhile ruler or monarch of the Calicut kingdom in the South Malabar region of India. The temple dates back to the 14th century. The presiding deities are Lord Shiva, Lord Krishna, and Narasimhamoorthy. Built in the traditional Kerala architectural style, the temple has a two-storied sanctum-santorum built in the shape of a chariot. The temple has mural decorations and granite sculptures of Lord Shiva’s retinue.

The temple also houses other Sree Kovil deities of Tali Ganapathy, Thevarathil Ganapathy, and Thrumandhakunny Bhagavathy. The temple remains open at 4.30 AM and the morning pujas continue till 7.00 AM. Devotees must bathe and wear clean clothes before entering the temple. Men must wear a dhoti or Mundu without shirts or a baniyan. Women visiting the temple must wear traditional Indian attire. Cameras, mobile phones, and other electronic devices are prohibited inside the premises.

Varakkal Devi Temple: The Varkala Devi Temple stands on a hillock in the West Hill locality of Kozhikode. It is believed to be the 108th and last temple consecrated by Lord Parasurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. To impress the Devi, Lord Parasurama plowed the rocky terrain in a monumental feat. The Devi, pleased with Lord Parasurama’s devotion blessed the site. According to legend, Parasurama carved the idol of Devi Durga with his axe and also performed the Vavu Bali here to pay homage to the souls of all those he had slain.

Initially inaccessible and neglected, the temple was renovated by the Perumals and subsequently by the Zamorins, who designated it as a Mahakshethram and redesigned it to its present form. The temple is designed in traditional Kerala architecture and offers stunning sea views upon climbing the high stairs to the sanctum. Inside, Devi Durga stands in all her glory accompanied by sub-deities Ganapathy, Dakshinamoorthy, and Ayyappan.

Within the temple compound lies a rare cave structure and a pond within a rock, which according to legend was created by Parasurama for the Devi’s puja. The temple is ancient dating back to the Treta Yuga. The temple hosts two important festivals — the Navarathri festival in September and the Vavu Bali ritual in July and August. Pilgrims and Ayappan devotees also stop over at this temple on their Dakshin Pilgrimage and Sabarimala yatra, respectively. The temple remains open daily in the morning from 05:00 AM to 12:00 PM and in the evening from 05:30 PM to 08:00 PM.

Mishkal Mosque: A unique architectural marvel, the Mishkal Mosque in Kuttichira is over 600 years old and showcases an exquisite blend of Kerala and Arabic styles. Its wooden structure and intricate carvings make it a fascinating site for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum: This museum and art gallery was constructed in 1812. At that time it was known as East Hill Bungalow. In 1976, the building was converted into a museum and renamed in honor of Pazhassi Raja, the “Lion of Kerala,” who led early uprisings against the British. The museum narrates his story and has preserved his memorabilia.

Vaadakara Beach & Park: A two-hour drive from Kozhikode will take you to this beach which is secluded and stunning with its melange of azure waters, the golden sands, and the blue sky. The beach park makes for a perfect setting for a beachside picnic.

The museum and art gallery also have on display artifacts including ancient pottery, coins, stone and metal sculptures, burial urns, and tombstones of rulers that date back to Kerala’s early civilizations and provide insights into the region’s martial, artistic, and tribal traditions. Special collections include the Panchaloha idols and statues of people regarded as “war heroes.” A section also displays war weapons used by British soldiers and official caps that were worn by French soldiers.

Krishna Menon Museum: The Krishna Menon Museum in Kozhikode is a museum dedicated to the Late V.K. Krishna Menon, India’s former Defence Minister and diplomat. It is located in the East Hill neighborhood of Kozhikode where V.K. Krishna Menon completed his studies. The museum showcases his life, achievements, and contributions to India’s independence and post-independence era through a collection of personal belongings, letters, photographs, and historical documents.

The museum has an adjacent art gallery that displays a collection of 66 paintings by renowned artists, including Raja Ravi Varma, and Raja Raja Varma, and paintings from the Bengal, Rajasthani, and modern schools of art as well as modern Indian painters, murals, elaborate ivory creations, intricate wood carvings, and metallic sculptures. The museum is part of a 200-year-old building that stands on a 3-acre beautifully landscaped ground that also has a medicinal garden and a butterfly park. It also houses a library which contains many of Krishna Menon’s works. The museum charges a minimal entry fee and remains open from 10 AM – 4:30 PM, except on Mondays and public holidays.

Mananchira Square: Mananchira Square was once the palace tank of the Zamorin rulers, and was built as a bathing pool by the Zamorin Mana Vikrama, the feudal ruler of Kozhikode, sometime during the 14th century. In the late 19th century, the municipal council of Kozhikode passed a ruling that the pond was used exclusively for drinking purposes, a ruling that has remained in place, ever since.

Today, it remains an important source of drinking water for the city of Kozhikode. In present times, it has been transformed into a freshwater pond that is fed by a natural spring. The pond is surrounded by a park that has a musical fountain, 250 beautiful lamp posts, an artificial rivulet, and an open-air theater, which is often used to host cultural activities. The park opens after 2 PM. There is no entrance fee.

Scenic Beaches:

Kozhikode Beach: Nestled near the Malabar Coast, Kozhikode Beach remains a popular spot to witness stunning sunsets. The Kozhikode Lighthouse, built in 1907 is representative of this maritime heritage, A climb to the top rewards visitors with, panoramic views of the beach and its surroundings. With its golden sands dotted by swaying palm trees, its shore washed by gentle waves, and a refreshing sea breeze blowing in, the beach is ideal for morning and evening strolls.

Early risers often head to Dolphin’s Point to catch a glimpse of these friendly creatures frolicking in the sea. Evenings remain crowded with locals and tourists enjoying the vibrant atmosphere with a selection of local snacks and handicrafts. Visitors can play beach volleyball, fly kites, build sandcastles, or head to nearby S.M. Street to sample some sweet Halwa, the best in the area. The beach also hosts the annual festival Malabar Mahotsavam, celebrating Kerala through its art, music, and dance forms.

Kappad Beach: It was on Kappad Beach that Vasco da Gama landed in 1498, establishing the first sea route from Europe to India, a turning point in history that has been commemorated with a stone monument that stands on this beach. With its golden sands, calm waters, and cultural significance, Kappad Beach is a must-visit on a tourist’s itinerary. Its pristine shores serve as the perfect nesting ground for endangered Olive Ridley turtles.

To preserve these creatures, the government in collaboration with local conservationists runs ongoing programs such as beach clean-ups.

Apart from watching the stunning sunrise and sunset, visitors can go swimming, kayaking, and boating when the waters remain calm in summer and winter. On your leisurely walk on the shore, you will find small shops offering local handicrafts and snacks for sale. You can go cruising the Kappad backwaters on a houseboat and also visit the nearby Kappad Fort.

Beypore Beach: Located at the mouth of the Chaliyar River, Beypore is known for its ancient shipbuilding industry and offers a tranquil environment to relax. Visitors can witness skilled craftsmen constructing ‘Uru,’ the large wooden dhows, and explore the beautiful Beypore Beach. The beach exudes a rustic charm with small waves that dance on its quiet shores. A “Pulimuttu,” or walkway has been constructed using piled-up rocks which extend 1 km into the sea. Taking a walk on this walkway can be a novel experience as you walk right in the middle with the waves keeping you company on both sides of this walkway.

Varakkal Beach: Varakkal Beach is less crowded making it a perfect evening relaxation spot, which also has a cafeteria, free and paid toilet facilities, and a children’s play area with a skating track and swing. Nearby, visitors can find many eateries and restaurants.

Payyoli Beach: A 1.5-hour drive away from Kozhikode, Payyoli Beach is known for its calm, shallow waters, and gentle waves that caress the shoreline of the rocky island “Velliyamkallu” – an isle, located in the sea. The calm waters are ideal for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts and there are an array of beach games waiting to be played as well. The coconut palms dot the landscape adding to its beauty.

During winter, Olive Ridley Turtles visit this beach to lay their eggs on the golden sands. The nearby turtle conservation center “Theeram” is operated by local fishermen. Thikkodi Lighthouse lies near. Visitors can drive down to the Moorad River to spot a variety of domestic and migratory birds.

Thikkodi Drive-In Beach: Only 36 km away from Kozhikode lies a less explored, calm, and quiet beach with hard-packed sands, which make driving on this beach a breeze. If you love driving, with a view of the sea to soothe your eyes, this beach is where you should head to. The nearby Thikkody Lighthouse is also a major draw for visitors.

Vaadakara Beach & Park: A two-hour drive from Kozhikode will take you to this beach which is secluded and stunning with its melange of azure waters, the golden sands, and the blue sky. The beach park makes for a perfect setting for a beachside picnic.

Nature Trails

Thusharagiri Waterfalls: For nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, Thusharagiri Waterfalls, located about 50 km from Kozhikode, is a must-visit. The cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and trekking trails offer an exhilarating experience for visitors.

Peruvannamuzhi Dam: Surrounded by hills and lush forests, Peruvannamuzhi Dam is a picturesque location perfect for boating, birdwatching, and picnicking. The serene environment and scenic beauty make it an ideal getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary: Located around 19 km from Kozhikode, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is a haven for bird watchers. It is home to a wide variety of migratory and native birds, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers.