Calicut is locally known as Kozhikode, it was the capital and an important trade centre of the former Malabar District. It is the third largest city of Kerala. This cityis famous as the place where Zheng He of China first visited, then later Vasco da Gama in 1498. He landed in the remote beach of Kappad which is 18 km away from the city.
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HOW TO REACH
By Air:–
Calicuit airport is just 25 kms from the city centre, all the major cities are connected with frequent flights.
By Train:–
Calicut is well connected to all major cities with lots of options of regular and express trains.
By Road:–
Calicut has a huge network of roads and connected to all major cities of Kerala.All the roads are in good condition and well maintained.
WHAT TO SEE
Kappad Beach:-
The beautiful rocky beach has an historical importance. Vasco da Gama landed at this beach in 1498, becoming the first European to reach India by the sea route around the southern cape of Africa. The beach is very famous.
Pookot Lake :-
The beautiful lake the best tourist spot in Calicut, it is surrounded by lush green mountains. The fresh water lake the cool breezes make it feels like heaven. you can also enjoy boat ride at this lovely lake.
Pazhassiraja Museum :-
The museum displays the acclaimed paintings of Kerala’s cherished artists, Raja Ravi Varma (1848 – 1906) whose works brought international repute to the State and his uncle Raja Raja Varma. It also displays mural paintings, antique bronzes,ancient coins, models of temples, umbrella stones, dolmenoid cists (quadrangular burial chambers with capstones), and similar megalithic monuments.
Backwaters: –
The backwaters of Calicut is so enchanting and gorgeous. It a combination of beautiful lakes, rivers and canals. You can enjoy the backwater by staying at the house boat.
Thusharagiri Waterfalls :-
The gurgling waterfalls of Thusharagiri is another highlight of Western Ghats are simply pleasure for eyes. The best roar of the waterfalls can be enjoyed from September to November.
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Beypore Beach :-
Located at the mouth of the Chaliyar River in Kozhikode district, Beypore,one of the prominent ports and fishing harbours of ancient Kerala was an important trade and maritime centre. Ancient Beypore was much sought after by merchants from Western Asia, for its ship building industry. The boat building yard here is famous for the construction of the Uru, the traditional Arabian trading vessel. The Beypore Beach has a bridge built nearly 2 kms into the sea. It is actually made up of huge stones piled together for nearly 2 kms making a pathway into the sea.
Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary :-
Kadalundi bird sanctuary, 19 km from Kozhikode is home to more than a hundred varieties of native birds and over 60 species of migratory birds flock here in large numbers. The sanctuary is also known for a wide variety of Fish, Mussels and Crabs. Birds like Terns, Gulls, Herons, Sandpipers, Whimbrels, and other migratory birds flock the place from the month of November and return only by the end of April.
Peruvannamuzhi Dam :-
Peruvannamuzhi is located about 60 km North East of the district headquarters. By boarding buses plying between Kozhikode and Peruvannamuzhi, you can directly reach Peruvannamuzhi Dam. In addition, frequent bus services are available from Perambra to Peruvannamuzhi dam.
Thali Temple :-
The Kozhikkode Thali temple is an ancient one, dating back to the days of the Zamorin rule. The term Thali refers to a Shiva temple; however, the temple complex also houses a shrine to Krishna. Legend has it that Parasurama, associated with several temples in Kerala, worshipped Shiva here. Several legends associated with feudal rivalry, curses and relief from curses are associated with this temple. In its glorious days, this temple celebrated the Revathi Pattattaanam festival for seven days in the malayala month of Tulaa where learning and scholarship was celebrated with feasting and awards.
Sultan Bathery :-
It is also known as Sulthan’s Battery (pronounced in Malayalam as ‘Sul-than Ba-the-ry’), 98 km from Calicut, was formerly known as Ganapathivattom. It derivers its present name from Tippu Sultan of Mysore who built a fort here in the 18th century.
SHOPPING:-
Shopping in Calicut is a good experience as there are many small souvenirs to choose from. Once you check out the local markets, you will know what to buy in Kozhikode. In Calicut, shopping places are limited to just a couple of main roads. Unlike big cities, the mall culture is unheard of and new to this place. So read on further to know where to shop in Calicut.
FOOD:-
Calicut has so many option for restaurants, there are so many vegetarian and non vegetarian restaurants, all the the major hotels has their own restaurants.They can try Woodlands at GH Road, Dakshin at Mavoor Road, Ruchi Mavoor Road and Taj Residency.