Kozhikode (Calicut)

Overlooking the southwest coast of India lies Kozhikode or Calicut, the erstwhile capital of the illustrious Zamorins. Described as “the great province of Malabar” by the legendary traveller Marco Polo, Kozhikode is situated on the northern part of Kerala. While the district is flanked by Kannur on the north, Malappuram on the south and Wayanad on the east, the frolicking waves of the Arabian Sea lap the western shores.

Innumerable versions of how Kozhikode acquired its name abound among the local populace. According to one such version, the place got its name from “Cock Fort” (the land where the cock crows). Another version says that Kozhikode derived its name from Koyil Kotu or Kotta, which means a fortified palace. Interwoven into the fabric of Kozhikode is its glorious history and culture, making it the favourite destination of history buffs. Though the present day sprawling city bears little resemblance to the one of the past, traces of its rich culture are still visible in the various monuments and museums that dot the district. Kozhikode is commercially famous as an important centre for textiles, steel products, seafood processing, timber and tiles. Traditional art forms have flourished in the district from time immemorial. CVN Kalari Centre is a well-known centre for the ancient form of Kerala’s martial art, Kalaripayattu.

The backwaters of Kozhikode hold tremendous tourist potential because of their unspoilt charm and natural splendour. The Korapuzha Jalotsavam (water fiesta), held at Korapuzha has kindled the interest of sports lovers. Boating facilities are available at Elathur, the Canoli Canal and the Kallai River. Kozhikode has made it to the list of tourist destinations because of its unique combination of historical sites, breathtaking locales and a warm and friendly ambience.

Location
Nearest airport: Karipur (23 km from Kozhikode town), Daily flights to Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore and the Middle East. The Chennai flight also to touches Coimbatore and Madurai.
Rail: Links all the major cities and tourist centres in India.
Road: Well connected by road to all the major cities and tourist centres in India.
Places of Interest
Dolphin Point
Just 15 minutes from the city centre is a place called Dolphin's Point,where one can see dolphins playing in the sea of an early morning. The long tree-lined beach, about 2 km away, is popular with the local people because of the Lions Club Park, the lighthouse, and two piers - and of course, the opportunity to soak in the evening breeze

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 shore 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 .

Kallai
Six km away is Kallai (/kallaai/), once the bustling nerve-centre of Kozhikode's timber trade, said to have been the largest such trading centre in Asia. Today, though some business does take place, hard times have fallen on the timber trade and Kallai is just a shadow of its busy past.


Accommodation in Kozhikode :
» Kadavu Resort
» Malabar Palace
» Fortune Hotel
» Taj Rresidency
» Taj Rresidency
» Renaissance Kappad Beach Resort
» Calicut Towers
» Hotel Maharani
» Hotel Hyson Heritage
» Taj Residency