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Book your visit to Kozhikode

Nestled between rivers, rolling hills and sun-kissed beaches, Kozhikode is a city where the spirit of Malabar thrives. Often called the City of Spices, Kozhikode holds centuries of history as a bustling port and gateway to the East. Traders and travellers arrived here, leaving traces of their culture that blended well into the local vibes of today.

The beauty of Kozhikode lies in its contrasts as you stroll through its busy streets or escape to the countryside of rice paddies. Pristine beaches invite you to witness mesmerising sunsets, and rivers wind through the city lined by dense greenery.

Despite its deep-rooted traditions, Kozhikode is one of Kerala’s most developed cities, balancing modernity and a rustic atmosphere. Experience the vibrant soul of Kerala for yourself.

Things to do in Kozhikode

Mananchira Square is a peaceful oasis where manicured lawns and traditional architecture surround the Mananchira Lake. Here, visitors can relish in its charm and history. Speaking of history, venture to Beypore, one of India’s oldest ports. This famous harbour once welcomed merchants travelling through the ancient maritime silk route. Today, its shipyard still crafts traditional wooden dhow boats.

The banks of the Kallayi River should be on your Kozhikode bucket list, as the river has long been a hub for India’s timber trade. Another iconic river is the Chalippuzha River, which hosts the annual Malabar River Festival.

Catch a glimpse of Tali Maha Shiva Kshetram for its architecture and historical significance. For a taste of Keralan tranquillity, catch the sunset and watch the dolphins at Dolphin’s Point.

Activities in Kozhikode

It wouldn’t be a holiday to Kerala without a trip to the beach. Golden sands stretch for miles at Kozhikode Beach, where locals serve up a variety of snacks. Walk further along the coastline to the historic Kappad Beach, where Vasco da Gama once set foot in India, adding a touch of history to your trip.

Alternatively, immerse yourself in the stars at the Kozhikode Planetarium. This unexpected journey brings distant galaxies to life. However, if nature is more your style, the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is a must-see. The serene estuary setting is where migratory birds gather.

For a little more adventure, explore the Thusharagiri and Kozhippara Waterfalls. Cascading down rugged hills, these waterfalls are surrounded by forest, mist and the cool mountain breeze.

Food in Kozhikode

Start your day with a classic Kerala-style breakfast of soft idiyappam – a steamed rice or noodle dish with creamy coconut milk. The entirety of Kozhikode’s food scene is a sensory marvel, like the tantalising options along Sweet Meat Street. This old lane overflows with bakeries and stalls. Make sure to try Kozhikode’s legendary halwa. For a sensory experience, explore Palayam Market, abundant with vegetables and local spices.

An unmissable delight is mussels fry, known as kallumakkaya. Freshly caught mussels are coated in spices and fried to perfection. For something heartier, indulge in pathal, a rice bread filled with coconut-infused chicken or beef. But nothing compares to the Malabar dum biriyani, a mildly spiced version layered with chicken, lamb or mutton.

Shopping in Kozhikode

For shopping, head to Sweet Meat Street. Its stalls and shops are not only full of food but also bursting with colourful fabrics and souvenirs. If you’re looking to take home something truly local, there is a wholesale spice market filled with cinnamon, cardamom, pepper and more – a treat for culinary enthusiasts.

A shop along Town Hall Road should be on the agenda for textiles. Here, beautifully woven handloom fabrics capture the authentic elegance of Kerala, while cottons and delicate calicos make for thoughtful keepsakes. You can also find distinctive souvenirs like coir products, made from coconut fibres, and miniature models of snake boats – an ode to Kerala’s river races. For a piece of local artistry, shop for unique rosewood or buffalo horn carvings.