Also referred to as the “Northern Backwaters” to distinguish the area from its more famous counterpart in Alleppey, the backwaters around Kozhikode are serene and unspoilt by commercial tourist traffic. Composed of stretches of mangroves and palm fringed shores, exotic flora and fauna, guests will be in thrall of the natural beauty and gentle way of life among the people that live here.
Extending from a branch of the Kutharadampuzha river, the Kozhippara Falls are popular with tourists for the shallow pools beneath the falls that are ideal to swim in. Birdwatchers will find delight in spotting the numerous species of endemic and migratory birds here. The surrounding forest through which numerous trekking trails wind through attract trekking enthusiasts.
Dropping down from the higher reaches of the Western Ghats, the waterfall cascades down three rocky outcrops. Trekking and rock climbing enthusiasts will find trails heading in the direction of Lakkidi Ghats passing through thick forest surrounding the falls.
Legend mentions that the Thikkoti lighthouse was built on the remains of a wrecked ship. It is one of the tourist attractions around Kozhikode, situated atop a rocky premonitory, the area is known forits beautiful sunsets, scenic views and the likelihood of spotting several species of migratory birds that pass through the area.
Beypore is a small port located at the mouth of the Chaliyar River. Historically renowned for its traditional indigenous boat building industry the shipyards here are even today famous for the Dhows, Urus, traditional Arab trading vessels that its boatyards produce. A craft that began here, in Beypore more than 1500 years ago, boats are still built as they were then by craftsmen with extraordinary skills. Another fascinating aspect of the craft is the regardless of the size of the boat designs are never drawn out, craftsmen build from memory. The beach on the edge of town is a favourite among visitors, especially for its beautiful sunsets.
Mananchira is a man-made freshwater pond surrounded by the square that takes is name after the pond. Built in the 14thcentury as a bathing pool by an erstwhile feudal ruler of Kozhikode, today it is a historical architectural relic in the centre of Kozhikode, surrounded by an open air theatre, beautiful landscaped lawns, and musical fountains. Visitors come here to enjoy the serene atmosphere, the beauty of the park and the sounds of rippling water in the pond.
A quaint coastal village, Elathur is fringed by a lake on one end and a river on the other. The village is popular with visitors, who, immersed in the serene surroundings, relish the fresh water fish, delicious seafood and fresh toddy served in the food stalls here.
The sanctuary is set spread over a cluster of islands surround by forested hillocks on the Kadalundi River and is a bird watcher's paradise. Home to sixty migratory and more than hundred endemic bird species birds, the sanctuary is very popular with wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Another attraction is the mouth of the river, where it meets the Arabian Sea and hosts numerous species of fish, crabs, and mussels.
Stretching longitudinally along the western edge of Kozhikode, the beach is popular for the spectacular sunsets over the Arabian Sea. Children will enjoy frolicking in the Lion’s Park beside the beach and exploring the aquarium. At one end of the beach ruins of two ancient piers where ships once berthed with cargo are visible.
The Pazhassiraja Museum, named after a legendary ruler, displays an interesting collection of antique bronzes, paintings and ancient umbrella stones referred to as 'Kodakallu' in the vernacular. Umbrella stones are monuments were built over burial urns at a very distant period in ancient history and are confined to certain geographical locales on the western coast of peninsular India.
Believed to be over 700 years old, the mosque is designed and built in a unique architectural that is for most part syncretic, combining elements of vernacular design with Islamic tradition. The Mishkal Mosque is named after NakhoodaMishkal, an Arab merchant who commissioned its construction.
Kappad Beach is historically referred to as the place where Vasco da Gama the Portuguese conquistador first disembarked on his arrival on this coast, setting off a chain of events that have shaped the history of India. The beach provides facilities and is perfect for swimming, boating, beach games, paragliding, snorkeling and surfing. Guests would also find a cruise through the backwaters near Kappad that ends at the beach a fascinating experience.
The Sargaalaya Kerala Arts and Crafts village is an exquisite blend of brilliant hand crafted designs and age old traditions. Established in order to promote tourism along with encouraging the traditional art and craft of Kerala, a visit to the village gives visitors an opportunity to witness artisans at work, crafting their products. The community boasts of a rich tradition of craftsmanship and displays for sale beautiful craftwork by local artisans as well as of those from other parts of India. An interesting experience and well worth a visit if one is an art and craft enthusiast.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Tali Temple is one of the oldest temples in the region and the five different religious ceremonies performed daily are very popular among the devout. The Malayalam New Year is the best time to visit the temple.
Matri Dei Cathedral, built in a style reminiscent of a period in ancient Roman architecture, is perhaps one of the oldest churches in the Malabar region with a recorded history dating back to 1513AD. The cathedral also features an exquisite portrait St. Mary and it is also referred to as the 'Mother of God Cathedral.'