About Calicut
Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a coastal city in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It was the capital of the erstwhile Malabar District and is the largest urban area in the region. Known as the "City of Spices," Calicut has a rich history as a trading port and was the entry point for Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch, and British traders.
The city is famous for its warm hospitality, beautiful beaches, historical sites, and distinctive cuisine. Calicut is also renowned for being the birthplace of the Zamorin dynasty and for Vasco da Gama's first landing in India in 1498.
Top Tourist Attractions
Kozhikode Beach
A popular sunset point with a historic lighthouse and two crumbling piers. The beach is ideal for evening walks and offers a glimpse into local life with food stalls serving fresh seafood.
Kappad Beach
Historic beach where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama first landed in India in 1498. A memorial stone marks the spot, and the beach is known for its serene beauty and rock formations.
Beypore
A historical port town known for its 1500-year-old shipbuilding industry. Visit to see the traditional Uru (Arabian trading vessel) construction and the Beypore Lighthouse.
Mananchira Square
A beautiful park surrounding the historic Mananchira tank, built by the Zamorin Mana Vikrama. The park features musical fountains, an open-air theater, and traditional Kerala architecture.
Thusharagiri Waterfalls
Located about 50km from Calicut, these beautiful waterfalls are nestled amidst dense forests. The name means "snow covered mountains" and it's a popular trekking destination.
Pazhassiraja Museum
Named after the famous Pazhassiraja Kerala Varma, this archaeological museum houses antique bronzes, ancient coins, models of temples, and megalithic structures.
Cultural Highlights
Cuisine
Calicut is famous for its distinctive Malabar cuisine, especially biryani, seafood, and banana chips. Don't miss the traditional "Kozhikodan Halwa" and "Kallummakkaya" (mussels) preparations.
Arts
The city has a rich tradition of Theyyam, a ritual dance form, and is known for its Mappila songs - a blend of Arab and Malayalam musical traditions.
Shopping
SM Street (Sweet Meat Street) is a famous shopping lane for textiles, spices, and traditional handicrafts. Calicut is also known for its handloom products.
Travel Information
How to Reach
- By Air: Calicut International Airport (CCJ) is about 28km from the city center with domestic and international flights.
- By Train: Kozhikode Railway Station is well-connected to major cities across India.
- By Road: Excellent road connectivity via National Highways NH66 and NH766.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Calicut is from September to March when the weather is pleasant. The monsoon season (June-August) offers lush greenery but heavy rainfall.
We hope you enjoy your stay in Calicut during AFPICON Kerala 2027!
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