KANNUR

Kannur district is set amidst Kozhikode and Wayanad district in the south, Lakshadweep Sea in the West and Kasargode in the north. The district is bounded by a wealth of natural beauty and is endowed with sufficient number of rivers. Formerly a major port area, this is now a city known for its handloom and beedi. Some of the Kerala’s finest weavers come from this district. The district itself, which shares much of this natural splendor, has been a key contributor to the cultural, religious, political and industrial heritage of the state. In addition, Kannur enjoys the credit of having been the cradle of many a colorful folk art and folk music of Kerala.

Accessing Kannur

By Air
Kozhikode is the nearest airport (113 kms)

By Rail
Kannur is an important railhead of the Southern Railways, which is well linked to the major cities of the country.

By Road
An excellent road transport system connects Kannur to all the major towns of South India.

Places of Attraction

St.Angelo Fort (3 kms from Kannur): If you want a touch of history, then you should really visit this seafront laterite fort. This fort was constructed in 1505 AD by the first Portuguese Viceroy, Don Francisco De Almeda. Once upon a time the fort become one of the important military centers of the British in Malabar. This fort offers a fascinating view of the Mappila Bay fishing harbour.

Parassinikkadavu (18 kms from Kannur town): Sri Muthappan Temple stands on the banks of the Valapattanam River, 18 kms from Kannur. Lord Muthappan is believed to be the incarnation of Lord Shiva. This is the only temple in Kerala where Theyyam the ritual dance form of North Kerala is performed daily. The snake park here is the only one of its kind in this state and perhaps the whole of India. The park signifies the great role played by snakes in keeping the ecology of nature. The park is dedicated to preservation and conversation of snake most of which are getting extinct gradually.

Muzhappilangad Beach (15 kms from Kannur): Black rocks protect this long, clean beach from the currents of the deep, making its shallow water a swimmer’s paradise. Perhaps this is Kerala’s drive-in-beach where you can drive down the entire length of 4 km.

Dharmadam Island: The small 5.5 acre island covered with coconut palms and dense bushes is a beautiful sight from the beach. The island is owned by department of Tourism.

Thalasseri Fort (22 kms from Kannur): The fort constructed in 1708 was the military center of the British. It is now a historical monument. The other attractions nearby are: The Sports Authority of India Gymnastic Centre and old mosque, the Jagannatha Temple and Thiruvangad Sree Rama Swami Temple.

Madayi Para (25 kms from Kannur): The Madayi Kavu temple, the Vadakunnu tmple and the 12th century mosque built by Malik Bin Deenar with white marble imported from Arabia, are the major attractions here. There is also a dilapidated fort at Madayi, which is supposed to have been built by Tipu Sultan of Mysore. The view from the fort is fascinating.

Ezhimala (55 kms from Kannur): The beautiful beach here has a hillock nearby. Carved stone pillars and an ancient burial chamber can be seen at the foot of the hills. The hills are noted for rare medicinal herbs.

Pythal Mala (65 kms from Kannur town): This enchanting hill station situated 4,500 ft above sea level near the Kerala-Karnataka border is rich in flora and fauna.

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary (35 kms from Thalassery): Aralam wildlife sanctuary is an easily accessible haunt for nature enthusiasts. It is 35 kms from Tellicherry. In its 55 sq.km area can be found elephants, sloth bears, sambar and mouse deer as well as fauna and reptiles.

Kizhunna Ezhara Beach (11 kms from Kannur): This beautiful stretch of san is one of the most secluded beaches in Kerala.

Many more attractions are awaiting you in Kannur