bigtravelbuzzKozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a city located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is a historic city that was an important trading center for spices and textiles during the medieval era. Kozhikode is known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Kozhikode include Kappad Beach, Beypore Beach, Thusharagiri Waterfalls, and the Calicut Planetarium. The city is also famous for its traditional cuisine, especially its signature dish, the Malabar biryani.
Places to Visit in Kozhikode
Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a beautiful city in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It has a rich history and culture, and there are many interesting places to visit in Kozhikode. Here are some popular tourist attractions:
Kappad Beach: It is a beautiful beach located about 16 km from Kozhikode city. This is where Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese explorer, landed in India in 1498.
Beypore Beach: This is another popular beach located about 10 km from Kozhikode city. It is known for its fishing harbor and traditional shipbuilding industry.
Thusharagiri Waterfalls: It is a scenic waterfall located about 50 km from Kozhikode city. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and is a popular spot for trekking and hiking.
Mananchira Square: It is a public park located in the heart of Kozhikode city. It has a beautiful lake, musical fountain, and a statue of the famous Malayalam poet, Thunchath Ezhuthachan.
Kozhikode Beach: It is a popular beach located in the city center. It is a great place to relax, watch the sunset, and enjoy some local street food.
Pazhassiraja Museum and Art Gallery: It is a museum located in East Hill, Kozhikode. The museum showcases a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of Kerala.
Sargaalaya: It is a handicraft village located about 30 km from Kozhikode city. It is a great place to buy traditional handicrafts and to watch local artisans at work.
Thali Temple: It is a Hindu temple located in the heart of Kozhikode city. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is a popular spot for devotees and tourists alike.
Best Time To Visit Kozhikode
The best time to visit Kozhikode is between October to March, which is considered the winter season in the region. During this time, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 30 degrees Celsius. The humidity is also lower, making it a great time to explore the city and its many attractions.
The monsoon season in Kozhikode starts from June and lasts until September, bringing heavy rainfall and high humidity. It is not the best time to visit Kozhikode as the rain can disrupt your travel plans and outdoor activities.
The summer season in Kozhikode lasts from April to May and can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 35 degrees Celsius. If you do plan to visit during the summer months, make sure to stay hydrated and avoid being out in the sun during the hottest parts of the day. Overall, the best time to visit Kozhikode is during the winter season, between October to March.
Things to Do in Kozhikode
Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. There are many interesting things to do in Kozhikode, from exploring its beautiful beaches to experiencing its traditional cuisine. Here are some popular activities:
Visit the Kappad Beach: It is a beautiful beach located about 16 km from Kozhikode city. It is where Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese explorer, landed in India in 1498. The beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, and taking a leisurely stroll.
Try the local cuisine: Kozhikode is famous for its traditional cuisine, especially its signature dish, the Malabar biryani. You can also try other local delicacies such as seafood, banana chips, and halwa.
Explore the historic landmarks: Kozhikode has a rich history, and there are many interesting landmarks to explore, including the Kozhikode Beach, Mananchira Square, and Thali Temple.
Take a boat ride: You can take a boat ride on the Kallayi River, which flows through the heart of Kozhikode city. The boat ride offers a scenic view of the city and its surroundings.
Visit the Beypore Beach: It is another popular beach located about 10 km from Kozhikode city. It is known for its fishing harbor and traditional shipbuilding industry. You can watch the craftsmen at work and even take a ride on a traditional boat.
Shop for handicrafts: Kozhikode is known for its traditional handicrafts, including handloom fabrics, wood carvings, and pottery. You can visit Sargaalaya, a handicraft village located about 30 km from Kozhikode city, to shop for these items.
Trek to the Thusharagiri Waterfalls: It is a scenic waterfall located about 50 km from Kozhikode city. The trek to the waterfall is through lush green forests and offers a beautiful view of the surroundings.
Watch a movie at the Sree Theatre: It is a famous cinema theater in Kozhikode that has been in operation since 1936. The theater has a vintage charm and is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
How to get around in Kozhikode
Getting around in Kozhikode is relatively easy, with several transportation options available.
Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transport in Kozhikode. They are readily available and can take you to your destination quickly. However, make sure to negotiate the fare before starting the ride.
Taxis: Taxis are another convenient mode of transport in Kozhikode. You can book a taxi through a mobile app or a local taxi operator. Taxis are generally more expensive than auto-rickshaws but are more comfortable.
Buses: Kozhikode has a well-connected bus network, operated by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). You can use the buses to travel within the city or to nearby towns and cities. The fares are reasonable, and the buses are comfortable.
Rental cars: You can also rent a car to explore Kozhikode and its surroundings. Several car rental companies operate in the city, and you can choose a car that suits your budget and travel needs.
Bicycles: If you want to explore Kozhikode at a leisurely pace, you can rent a bicycle. Several bicycle rental companies operate in the city, and you can rent a bicycle for a day or more.
Overall, Kozhikode has a well-developed transportation system that makes it easy to get around the city and its surroundings.
where to eat in Kozhikode
Kozhikode is famous for its traditional Malabar cuisine, which is a blend of Indian, Arabic, and European influences. There are several restaurants and eateries in Kozhikode that offer a variety of dishes, ranging from spicy seafood to sweet desserts. Here are some popular places to eat in Kozhikode:
Paragon Restaurant: Paragon is a popular restaurant in Kozhikode that has been serving delicious Malabar cuisine for over 80 years. Their specialties include biryani, seafood, and traditional Malabar dishes.
Zain’s Hotel: Zain’s Hotel is another famous restaurant in Kozhikode that is known for its traditional Malabar cuisine. Their specialties include chicken biryani, fish fry, and mutton curry.
Salkara Restaurant: Salkara is a popular restaurant chain in Kozhikode that offers a wide variety of dishes, including seafood, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian options. Their specialties include prawn roast, beef curry, and fish curry.
Bombay Hotel: Bombay Hotel is a famous restaurant in Kozhikode that is known for its street food and snacks. Their specialties include samosas, vadas, and chaats.
Rahmath Hotel: Rahmath Hotel is a popular eatery in Kozhikode that is known for its delicious biryani and seafood. Their specialties include prawn biryani, fish fry, and mutton biryani.
Sagar Restaurant: Sagar Restaurant is a popular seafood restaurant in Kozhikode that offers a variety of dishes, including prawn fry, fish curry, and crab masala.
Overall, Kozhikode has several restaurants and eateries that offer delicious food at reasonable prices. Whether you’re a fan of spicy seafood or sweet desserts, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds.
famous street stalls in Kozhikode
Kozhikode is famous for its street food, and there are several street stalls in the city that offer delicious snacks and meals. Here are some famous street stalls in Kozhikode that you must visit:
SM Street: SM Street is a popular shopping destination in Kozhikode that is also famous for its street food. You can find several street stalls here that offer delicious snacks, including samosas, vadas, and chaats.
Mithai Theruvu: Mithai Theruvu, also known as Sweet Street, is a famous street in Kozhikode that is known for its sweet shops and street food stalls. You can find a variety of sweets and snacks here, including halwa, laddoo, and jalebi.
Mittayi Theruvu: Mittayi Theruvu, also known as Sweet Meat Street, is a famous street in Kozhikode that is known for its meat snacks and sweets. You can find a variety of snacks here, including beef fry, chicken fry, and mutton samosas.
Beach Road: Beach Road is a popular tourist destination in Kozhikode that is known for its street food stalls. You can find a variety of seafood dishes here, including prawn fry, fish curry, and crab masala.
Kallummakkaya: Kallummakkaya is a popular street food stall in Kozhikode that is known for its mussel dishes. You can try the famous kallummakkaya fry, which is a spicy dish made with mussels.
Overall, Kozhikode has several street stalls that offer delicious snacks and meals at affordable prices. Whether you’re a fan of sweets, meat dishes, or seafood, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds.
where to stay in Kozhikode
luxury accomodation
Kozhikode offers a range of accommodation options for travelers, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. If you’re looking for luxury accommodation in Kozhikode, here are some popular options:
The Raviz Resort and Spa Kadavu: The Raviz Resort and Spa Kadavu is a luxury resort located on the banks of the Chaliyar River. It offers spacious rooms and suites, a spa, a swimming pool, and several dining options.
The Gateway Hotel Beach Road: The Gateway Hotel Beach Road is a luxury hotel located on the Kozhikode beach. It offers spacious rooms and suites with sea views, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and several dining options.
Westway Hotel Calicut: Westway Hotel Calicut is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Kozhikode. It offers spacious rooms and suites, a spa, a swimming pool, and several dining options.
The Copper Folia: The Copper Folia is a luxury hotel located in the outskirts of Kozhikode. It offers spacious rooms and suites, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and several dining options.
Vasco Dagama Beach Resort: Vasco Dagama Beach Resort is a luxury resort located on the Kappad Beach in Kozhikode. It offers spacious rooms and suites with sea views, a swimming pool, and several dining options.
Overall, Kozhikode has several luxury accommodation options that offer world-class amenities and services. These hotels and resorts are perfect for travelers who want to indulge in luxury and relaxation during their stay in Kozhikode.
where to stay in Kozhikode
budget accomodation
Kozhikode offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers, including budget hotels and guesthouses. Here are some popular options for budget accommodation in Kozhikode:
Alakapuri Guest House: Alakapuri Guest House is a budget guesthouse located in the heart of Kozhikode. It offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
Hotel Span: Hotel Span is a budget hotel located in the heart of Kozhikode. It offers clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Malabar Gate: Hotel Malabar Gate is a budget hotel located in the heart of Kozhikode. It offers clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Park Residency: Park Residency is a budget hotel located in the heart of Kozhikode. It offers clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Le Moshe Inn: Le Moshe Inn is a budget hotel located in the heart of Kozhikode. It offers clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Overall, Kozhikode has several budget accommodation options that offer clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. These hotels and guesthouses are perfect for travelers who are looking for a comfortable place to stay without breaking the bank.
Travel Tips Kozhikode
Here are some travel tips for visiting Kozhikode:
Climate: Kozhikode has a tropical climate, with warm and humid weather throughout the year. The monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, can bring heavy rains, so be prepared with rain gear if you visit during this time.
Language: The official language of Kozhikode is Malayalam, but English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Transportation: Kozhikode has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. You can also rent a car or motorcycle if you prefer to explore the city on your own.
Food: Kozhikode is known for its delicious food, especially seafood and local delicacies. Be sure to try the popular Kozhikode biryani and the various street food options available in the city.
Dress code: Kozhikode is a conservative city, and it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Cover your shoulders and legs when entering temples and mosques.
Safety: Kozhikode is generally a safe city for travelers, but it’s always important to take precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night, and keep your valuables safe.
Currency: The currency used in Kozhikode is the Indian Rupee. ATMs are widely available, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you, especially when visiting smaller shops and markets.
Overall, Kozhikode is a fascinating city with plenty to see and do. By following these travel tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this beautiful part of India.