A Guide To Kozhikode, Kerala

Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a vibrant city located in the southern state of Kerala, India. Renowned for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Kozhikode offers a delightful blend of cultural heritage and modern attractions. This coastal town is full of beaches and beautiful bird sanctuaries with an ancient lighthouse which is the perfect spot for watching the sunset. The city is also known for its delectable cuisine, including the famous Malabar biryani and seafood delicacies. Kozhikode's warm and welcoming locals add to the charm of this incredible destination, making it a must-visit place in Kerala.

Must-See Attractions

Kozhikode Beach 

Start your journey by visiting the iconic Kozhikode Beach. The serene coastline stretches along the Arabian Sea and offers breathtaking sunset views. Take a stroll along the sandy shores, indulge in water sports activities, or simply relax and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary 

Nature enthusiasts should visit the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary along the Kadalundi River. This sanctuary is home to various migratory birds, including herons, terns, sandpipers, and more. Take a boat ride through the mangrove forests and marvel at the avian wonders.

Thusharagiri Waterfalls 

The road to Thusharagiri is a scenic journey, at the end of which is a picturesque destination blessed with cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and trekking trails. The area comprises three waterfalls&mdashErechal, Thusharagiri, and Mazhavil Chattom&mdashset amidst the Western Ghats. You can have picnics go trekking, and rejuvenate in the tranquil surroundings.

Mananchira Square 

Explore the heart of Kozhikode city at Mananchira Square, a historic park built around a large rectangular pond. Admire the manicured gardens, traditional architecture, and the iconic musical fountain. The square also houses the Town Hall, an art gallery, and the Public Library, making it a cultural hub.

Matri Dei Cathedral 

Visit the Matri Dei Cathedral, also known as the Mother of God Cathedral, a beautiful Catholic church in Kozhikode. Admire the impressive architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and serene ambience of this historic place of worship.

Sweet Street (Mittayi Theruvu) 

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Sweet Street, a bustling lane in Kozhikode famous for its delectable sweets and snacks. Sample local delicacies like halwa, banana chips, and Kozhikode's signature dish, the mouthwatering banana fritters, known as pazham pori.

Tali Temple 

Pay a visit to the ancient Tali Temple, one of Kozhikode's oldest and most prominent Hindu temples. Take a walk through the temple's premise with its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings while experiencing the spiritual ambience.

Kappad Beach 

Take a trip to Kappad Beach, which holds historical significance as the place where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama first set foot in India. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings, take a dip in the sea, and soak in the history of this picturesque beach.

What To Eat

Kozhikode's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Malabar flavours and modern gastronomic experiences. From traditional Malabar cuisine to street food delights, here are some must-try dishes and popular food spots in Kozhikode.

Malabar Biryani&nbspIndulge in the famous Malabar Biryani, a flavorful rice dish cooked with fragrant spices, tender meat (usually chicken, mutton, or fish), and aromatic rice. It is often garnished with fried onions, cashews, and raisins. Some renowned places to savour this culinary delight include Paragon Restaurant, Zain's Hotel, and Rahmath Hotel.

Kozhikode Halwa Don't miss out on tasting the delectable Kozhikode Halwa, a popular sweet treat made from wheat, sugar, and ghee (clarified butter) and flavoured with cardamom and nuts. You can find a variety of flavours such as banana, pineapple, and coconut at renowned sweet shops like Bombay Hotel and Salkara Sweets.

Seafood Delicacies&nbspAs a coastal city, Kozhikode offers a wide array of seafood delicacies. From fresh fish curry to succulent prawns and delectable crab preparations, you can experience the true flavours of the sea. Some recommended seafood restaurants include Paragon Seafood Restaurant, East Court Restaurant, and Sagar Restaurant.

Other Information

Where to Stay There are a lot of places to stay in Kozhikode, from high-end luxury resorts to five-star hotels to many budget-friendly accommodations and homestays.

Getting There&nbspKozhikode Airport or the Calicut International Airport is around 20 km from the main city, and flights from Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Kochi, Hyderabad, Delhi, and Middle Eastern countries, ply daily.

Cover photo credit Shutterstock

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