Five places to visit in Kozhikode

Rains in Kakkayam
A scene from Kakkayam. Photo: Praveen Elayi

Kozhikode, once the capital of the Zamorin dynasty and a prominent centre of trade, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malabar region on Kerala. The lush green countrysides, serene beaches, historic sites, wildlife sanctuaries, rivers, hills and a unique culture of warmth, hospitality and compassion make Kozhikode a favourite travel destination. The place is also well-known for its wide variety of foods and drinks. The Kozhikoden Biriyani, Halwa and snacks like Unnakayi, Pazham Nirachathu, Chatti Pathiri are some of those simple, yet delightful, treats that will make your palate.

Now, here is a list of five must-visit places in and around Kozhikode city:

1. Kadalundi

Kadalundi reminds us of the word serendipity. The beach at this island cluster off the Malabar Coast in Kozhikode flaunts a shiny expanse of white sand on one side. A maze of wine-colored rocky protrusions borders the waters on the other side. The deep blue water here is part ocean part river – the estuary formed by the Kadalundi river and the Arabian Ocean is home to dense mangroves and exotic birds. Kadalundi is perhaps best known for its community reserve. The estuary, spread over Kadalundi-Vallikkunnu panchayat, is a favorite haunt of migratory birds. Read more

Five places to visit in Kozhikode
The surprise called Kadalundi. And why you should add it to your wishlist. Photo: Onmanorama

2. Vayalada

Vayalada is a must-visit place in Kozhikode. About 2000ft above sea level, this place had been unattainable till recently. Now there is a thick flow of tourists to this spot that holds magic within itself. Vayalada is an enchanting place where you can experience the stunning beauty of sunset above the clouds. Read more

Five places to visit in Kozhikode
Malabar’s Own Ooty: enchanting and wrapped in mist. Photo: Manorama Traveller

3. Kariyathumpara

Hit the path from Vayalada to Thalayadau and along the Manicherimala road, and you would reach Kariyathumpara, which lies about 14 km away.What catches your sight as you set foot on Kariyathumpara is the ferocious waterfalls that come hurtling down the rocks. The base of the falls is shallow, and tourists enjoy bathing in the pool formed by the falls down below. The mountains on the fringes, in fact, share their border with Wayanad on the other side. The sky-high mountain ranges stand majestic all around. Read more

Five places to visit in Kozhikode
Malabar’s Own Ooty: enchanting and wrapped in mist. Photo: Manorama Traveller

4. Kakkayam

The Kuttyadi hydroelectric project, which incidentally is Malabar’s first ever hydel project, had the Kakkayam dam built as part of it decades back. For travelers who move ahead from Kariyathumpara, Kakkayam forms the next destination. A trek past the Kakkayam town would take travelers to the Forest department’s ticket counter. On payment of Rs 40 per ticket, tourists get the chance to reach the Kakkayam dam site some 40 km away. As you climb up, the mesmerizing visuals of the Peruvannamuzhi dam catch your eye. The Kakkayam dam hides within the greenery the enchanting waterfalls called Urakkuzhi. A few meters down the dam, and beyond the forest path we reach Urakkuzhi falls. Read more

Five places to visit in Kozhikode
A scene from Kakkayam. Photo: Praveen Elayi

5. Kakkadampoyil

Kakkadampoyil is a small hamlet that lies on the border between Malappuram and Kozhikode. Also known as the Ooty of Malabar, Kakkadampoyil is one of those destinations that do not figure prominently on a tourism map. At Kakkadampoyil, you will be welcomed by a small waterfall cascading down the hill and lush greenery all around. You can take a dip in the cold waters flowing down from the waterfall. Agriculture used to be the backbone of the economy here. Read more

Five places to visit in Kozhikode
Unveiling Kakkadampoyil. Photo: Onmanorama

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