Kozhikode, the land of Zamorins, is all about spices, history, beach and business. Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is the trade hub of Malabar region. The city has a much attractive historical background. Kozhikode was the first location which put us on the international sea route for trade of spices and other goods.
Even before Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama's arrival in 1498, the city was a business hub for spices. Now, the city now attracts tourists from all over the world and its sandy beaches are a famous spot for all nature lovers.
Here's the top five beaches of Kozhikode
Kozhikode Beach
Kozhikode beach is located very near to the town. You can reach at the spot from bus terminals and railway station in few minutes. It's just 2 km away from both places. The beach is famous for its enchanting beauty, which is why it brings hundreds of tourists as well as locals every day. The majestic sea tides hitting the shoreline and engulfing the orange-red sun during sunset makes every evening a beguile experience. In the mornings, you may also get a chance to meet the resident dolphins also. The beach is famous for an old lighthouse which gives it an ancient tinge. The beach also has a cultural status as it brings all the sections of the community to its lap every evenings. Children, youngsters and elders come every evening to chat, refresh and witness the glorious sunset every evening. The many eatout places near the beach also offers wide variety of foods, both traditional and continental.
Beypore Beach
Beypore is an ancient town famous for building wooden dhows or 'urus' in local langauge Malayalam. Beypore port is one of the oldest ports in Kerala. It has a long history of trade between Malabar and Middle East to tell. It had proven that Beypore had direct trade links with Mesopotamia and was a prominent link on the maritime silk route. Beypore beach is the perfect location if you are looking for a natural hideout-an escapade from the monotony of life. A walk through the Pullimuttu, a sea-bridge of stone stretching in to sea, in the evening will reset your mind and soul and fill with positive energy in you. A nearby tourist attraction, Beypore light house, is situated at the south bank of Chaliyar river. This ancient beach is located 11 km away from Kozhikode city.
Kappad Beach
The Kappad Beach is one of the iconic beaches in Kozhikode. This is where Vasco da Gama arrived looking for spices. Just 20 km away from Kozhikode Railway Station, the Kappad will be an exciting spot for you to spend a day. You can also take a backwater ride in the Korappuzha River to reach here. Being rated as the best beach in Kozhikode, the Kappad is blend of unmatched beauty of nature. The lush green landscape is magnificent and an ancient stone temple located nearby is another attraction for history lovers.
Payyoli Beach
If you want to expecience the rustic beauty of beach, you must visit Payyoli beach. Not only will you feel energized but this place has an aura of spirituality too. There is calmness in the atmosphere, positivity in the swinging palm trees and serenity in the golden sands of the beach. If you are visiting during the month of November, you can also pay a visit to 'Theeram' centre, an initiative taken by the local fishermen for the conservation of Olive Ridley turtles. Payyoli beach is also famous among bird watchers. Hordes of birds are seen in their natural habitat making it a real treat for your eyes.
Vadakara Sand Banks
Vadakara, the land of Kalaripayattu, is the birth place of Thacholi Othenan - a legendary hero of the ballads of North Malabar known as Vadakkanpattu. Vadakara Sand Banks beach is where locals and tourists throng to view the confluence of the Kottakkal River and the Arabian Sea. This beach strip is famous in Kozhikode for its secluded and calm air. The beautiful sunsets here are a perfect way to usher in the end of the day. You can also visit the famous Velliyamkallu - a massive rocky island located about 36 kilometres off Kozhikode coast - taking a boat ride from Vadakara beach. The two-acre rocky island was the site of numerous skirmishes, mainly those between the Zamorin's fleet, led by legendry warrior Kunjali Marakkar, and the Portuguese. Many of the rocks here have markings of cannon ball hits. In 1598, a Portuguese ship was attacked and its entire crew killed here by the Marakkar. You may also meet the resident dolphins during the journey to the iconic rock island. This tiny hamlet in Kozhikode also has many famous temples and Kalaris, where you learn the Kalaripayattu, a traditional martial art.
