Kozhikode Travel
Kozhikode General Information
- Area 2345 sq. km
- Population 261897
- Altitude 190 m above Sea level
- Languages Hindi, English, and Gujarati
- Best Time to Visit October-March
- STD Code 0495
Introduction to Kozhikode
Kozhikode was once the capital of the powerful Zamorins. Later, the Dutch, the French and the British came this shore to trade. Kozhikode still maintains its commercial traditions, as cargo steamers visit the port even today. The town is famous for its boat-building yard, timber industry and historic temples and churches. Kozhikode was a port at least as early at the 7th century for Chinese and Middle Eastern traders. Vasco da Gama, the first European to arrive in India by boat, landed first in Kappad, 16km north of this city. The Portuguese had regular skirmishes with the local rulers, the Zamorins, for about a century and a half. Eventually the Portuguese were allowed to base their operations here. The British, French, Dutch, Portuguese, and Haider Ali, the ruler of Mysore and his son Tipu Sultan, all competed for Calicut in the 17th and 18th centuries. In 1792, the British took it over.
Places of Interest:
Tali Temple
Built in the 14th century by Swami Thirumulpad, the Zamorian, within his palace complex, this temple was the venue of Revathy Pattathanam the annual culture and intellectual event at eh Zamorin’s court.
Kappad
Vasco Da Gamma landed on these shores in 1498 for trade; there is a pillar here to commemorate this event. The beach itself is a calm haven, set amidst picturesque fishing villages and beautiful rock formations.
Pazhassiraja Museum
Located at east hill, this museum is maintained by the state archaeological department. The articles on display here include copies of ancient mural paintings, antique bronzes, coins, temple models and megalithic monuments.
Beypore
This town is situated at the mouth of Beypore river. It was one of the chief ports of Kerala and an important trade and maritime centre. Beypore is also a major fishing harbour, and the boat-building yard here is famous for its country crafts (Urus).
Payyoli
It is a place of historical importance due to the old fort and mosque of the Kunhali Marakkans. This place is also known for its sacrifice rock, which can be found at about 13 km away in the sea.
Vadakara
Situated on the right bank of Kuttiyadi river, Vadakara has a historical fort which is now in ruins. About five kilometers away from this town is the famous 1500 year old Lokanarkavu Bhagavathi Temple, where the main deity is Goddess Durga. The annual festival is celebrated during March – April. There are three rock cut caves near the Temple containing interesting murals and carvings.
Excursion:
Kallai
This key timber trading center has the second largest timber yard in Asia. The Kallai river with it sold iron bridge is a beautiful sight to behold.
Mananchira Maidan
The palace tank of King Mana Vikrama is an architectural splendor. The musical fountain inside the maidan and meticulously landscaped lawns surrounded by traditional Kerala style buildings are a fascination for visitors.
The Backwaters
Unexplored, unspoiled, the backwaters hold great promises of enchanting holiday options. Elathur, the Canolly Canal and the Kallai river are favorite haunts for boating. Kadalundi, with its beautiful bird sanctuary is a charming site. Korapuzha, the venue of the Korapuzha Jalotsavam is fast becoming a popular water sport destination.
Tusharagiri
Famous for its trekking tracks, it is located, near Vythiri in Wayanad. Trekkers start early morning from the second waterfall and climb uphill through the pristine, evergreen dense forests populated with exotic birds and wild animals to reach Vythiri by evening.