Kozhikode - Calicut

Calicut or Kozhikode is well known for its beautiful landscape, festival calendar and above all its warm and fun loving local populace. Kozhikode has an important part in the history of Kerala as the Portuguese explorer; Vasco Da Gama had first set foot on its shores at Kappad beach. It was a busy port and a trading hub and was of great strategic importance in the yore.

The name Calicut, is thought to have originated from Calico, the hand woven cloth, which originated here. Kozhikode is an interesting juxtaposition of the old and the new. The bustling bazaars and the historic attractions rub shoulders with the state of the art buildings and structures, giving it a diverse character.

There are many tourist places to visit in Calicut. Take a peek at the past by visiting the Kappad Beach & Beypore Fort. The unspoilt and unbelievably uncrowded, the Kappad beach offers a memorable experience. Enjoy one of the best sunsets that you have ever seen or soak up the enviably slow pace of life here. Nothing seems to have changed in Kappad for the last many years and this timeless charm is what makes it a hot tourist attraction.

The bird watchers cannot afford to miss out a trip to the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, which is home to over hundred bird species. All Calicut holidays would invariably have a trip to the Thusharagiri waterfall that beats down from an impressive height. It is a popular trekking and rock-climbing spot as well, which makes it popular among adventure tourists. No matter whether you are here to enjoy a tranquil holiday in the lap of nature or an adrenalin fueled holiday, Tusharagiri would be the right option. It also has crocodile farm, managed by the state forest department.

Peruvannamuzhi dam site is another must see in Calicut Tourism . Nestled amidst verdant green hillocks, it is a popular picnic spot. Speed boat and slow boat cruise options are available in the reservoirs. In case you wish to do something off the beaten track, then set out on exploring the uninhabited islands nearby, which would surely be a memorable experience for sure!

Calicut sightseeing is easy and hassle free as the city is well accessible by air, rail or bus.  The international airport is situated 22 km from the city centre. Taxis and auto rickshaws are convenient options to travel around the city and the best part is that these run on meters unlike the many other cities of Kerala.

No Calicut tours can be complete without making a stopover at the fabled food joints of this city that is well known for its exotic dining options including dum biriyani and exceptional Malabar meat and fish preparations. Do not forget to buy the famous Calicut halwa, which is available in various lip smacking flavors and the freshly made, crispy banana chips.    If shopping is on your cards, then head straight to SM  Street, where you can shop for anything under the sun literally! Make sure to grab the iconic Calico cloth that is available only here as a souvenir of your Calicut tours!