KOZHIKODE

Kozhikode will always have a special place in the history of Kerala as it is here that Vasco-da-Gama first landed and the legendary Spice Route came into existence. This region still has a historic charm to it. Kozhikode Beach is the personification of the numerous characteristics that make Kozhikode so unique. People flock in large numbers to view the sunset from the beach. One gets a fresh supply of seafood in the shacks that surround the place. Kallumekaya (mussels) is a local favourite. A walk to Dolphins Point at dawn ensures a meeting with playful dolphins. You are also greeted by a majestic lighthouse and two piers opening into the sea. Both have been here for over a hundred years. Children flock to Lions Park and the nearby marine water aquarium which is open on all days from 08:00 hrs to 20:00 hrs.

A white creamy outburst over the mighty Western Ghats, the Thusharagiri Waterfalls comprises of a set of arresting waterfalls, hissing, roaring, and slashing her way down steep rocky faces. Located 50 km from Kozhikode, the Thusharagiri Waterfalls comprise three waterfalls- Erattumukku, Mazhavil Chattom, and Thumbithullum Para. These ethereal sets of cascades can be reached by trekking through an exotic stretch that winds its way through lush greenery.

Muchundi Palli, built in the 13th century, is the oldest mosque in Kozhikode city. The mosque has an interesting history which showcases the spirit of communal harmony that prevailed during that time. It is said that the erstwhile rulers, the Zamorins, patronized Islam and that the king donated the property for building the mosque. There is a stone slab in the mosque that narrates this story. It is inscribed in the ancient Malayalam script, Vattezhuthu. The entire structure stands on a 1.5-metre-high plinth. The double-tiered roof with a decorated gable, the ceiling with floral wood works, the pillars with intricate engravings, and the wooden carvings of animals are all reminiscent of temple architecture, and speak volumes about the Hindu influence in mosque architecture. Inscriptions from the Holy Quran can also be seen in the mosque.

The Mananchira Square, located in the heart of Kozhikode city, is constructed around the Mananchira tank. This huge artificial pond built by the Zamorin King, Mana Vikrama, is fed by a natural spring. The area around the tank has been converted into a park, landscaped with trees, plants and lawns. Elements here like the arch at the entrance, guarded by Tipu Sultan's cannons, and the ancient buildings around the Mananchira Square help maintain the old-world charm. The highlights of the park include an artificial hill, sculptures, an open-air theatre and a musical fountain. The public library constructed in the traditional style inside the premises merges well with the ambience of the place. A bust of renowned Malayalam writer and Jnanpith awardee, S. K. Pottekkatt, is placed on a traffic island close by.

Known as the Gavi of Malabar, Vayalada is a mesmerizing hilltop destination located near Balusseri in Kozhikode district. Like the famous hill station of Gavi at Pathanamthitta, Vayalada has a nip in the air, with mist and greenery all around. The scenic peak is located 40 km from Kozhikode and 12 km from Balusseri. Situated 2,000 ft above sea level, the hill is a favourite among weekend trekkers. The one km-odd trekking amid great scenery is worth the climb. Once at the top, a magical treat awaits visitors and if it is the season of monsoon, then the hill station exudes a bewitching charm. The rain and mist conjure up an environment that we would never want to miss. The soft breeze will kiss away the tiredness from the strenuous hike

The Kakkayam dam [ കക്കയം ഡാം ]- Kakkayam Valley- Kariyathan Para, situated in Calicut district, 45-50kms away from the town and its noisy environment, offers the tourists not only a reservoir and its beauty but also a fantastic chance to enjoy the trekking and the scenic beauty of evergreen forest and grasslands. The main thing about this wonderful natural gift is that, this place is still untouched by the tourists crowd and is not at all there in the tourist map of Kerala. This reservoir comes as part of the Kuttiyadi Hydro Electric Project & is located at a height of about 2450 ft above sea level. The pen stock runs down from the dam site and goes through various tunnels and hills to the Kuttiyadi Tail race power house at Kakkayam. Water coming out of this power house joins a river and is utilized for Peruvannamoozhi Irrigation Project.