Kozhikode is known for its talented pool of writers, variety of food it offers, and for its hospitality. Famous for its passion for football and its strong cultural leaning, Kozhikode has places as mouthwatering as its patent Halwa. Kozhikode is a place which can really add colour to the summer holidays.
Sargaalaya
Here, artisans from villages showcase their craft and artwork under one roof. It is a feast for the eyes inside the aesthetically designed building by a calm lake. Hundreds of people visit this place where figurines, statuettes, handicrafts, jewellery, paintings etc are displayed. This craft village, located at Iringal in Kozhikode has made a name for itself abroad, too.
Home implements, artwork and handicrafts made by people from the villages are exhibited and sold here. From handbags made out of the spathe of areca nut tree to terracotta figurines, the exhibits here are extensive in number. Decorative wall-hangings, coir crafts, bamboo crafts, jewellery made of coconut shells, wall paintings, handloom clothes etc are on display and for sale and it takes at least an hour to cover all the exhibits.
Inside the compound of Sargaalaya Craft Village, there are other means of entertainment too. The seating arrangement made on a verandah built over the lake gives a different experience. Paddle-boat rides increase the worth of the lake. The banks of the Moorad River is like a bonus to the visitors of Sargaalaya. A boat service is available here. The canteen serves steaming hot food if booked half an hour in advance.
Iringal is about 40 km from Kozhikode by road. The gateway to Sargaalaya Craft Village can be sighted upon turning left just before the Vadakara bus stand. The entry ticket costs Rs 20 per head. Monday is a holiday. For more information, contact 0496-2606015.
The seashore and Kappad beach
A family outing, enjoying the pleasant sight of the evening sea and delighting the palates with 'Kallummakkay' (mussels) and the local 'ice orathi,' is the hallmark of Kozhikode Beach. Kozhikode beach is sure to give memorable moments to travellers. The beach is at a walking distance from city centre.
Kappad Beach is another well-known beach in Kozhikode. Kappad is about 18 km from the city. It is said that Vasco Da Gama made the landfall here in 1498. A plaque marking this historical moment features among the attractions of Kappad along with the rocky beach and a small temple by the seashore.
Peruvannamuzhi Dam
Apart from a bird sanctuary and a crocodile park, the dam area also has facilities for boat rides. A part of the Malabar Wild Life Reserve, Peruvannamuzhi is also the Headquarters of the Indian Spices Research. Peruvannamuzhi is about 43 km from the city. Except on Sundays and public holidays, the dam could be visited every day till 6pm. For more details, contact 0495 2720012, 0496 2662258.
Kozhikode is rich in other attractions such as the famous Mitaitheru (The Sweet Street) which is the pulse of Kozhikode, the bird sanctuary at Kadalundi, Thusharagiri and Arippara Waterfalls etc in addition to the city attractions like the Thali Temple, Mananchira Square, Planetarium, and more.
For more details contact The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) 0495 2720012, 2702606.
