Kannur, a coastal city in Kerala, is known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and vibrant traditions. Often referred to as the “Land of Looms and Lores,” Kannur has a significant history in the textile industry and is famous for its Theyyam performances—a traditional ritualistic art form. The district boasts beautiful beaches, historic forts, and a variety of cultural attractions. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to visit in Kannur:
Best Places to Visit
1. St. Angelo Fort
St. Angelo Fort, also known as Kannur Fort, is a historical fort built by the Portuguese in 1505. The fort offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and is an excellent example of European military architecture. The fort has a unique design with triangular bastions and a moat surrounding it. Visitors can explore the old structures, including the chapel, prison, and the watchtower, and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Key Attractions: Historic architecture, panoramic sea views.
- Activities: Exploring the fort, photography.
- Location: 3 km from Kannur city.
2. Payyambalam Beach
Payyambalam Beach is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Kannur. The beach is known for its long stretch of golden sand, clear blue waters, and a peaceful atmosphere. It is an ideal spot for relaxing, sunbathing, and enjoying the sunset. The beach also has a landscaped garden with a sculpture of a mother and child, adding to its charm. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll and to experience the beauty of the Arabian Sea.
- Key Attractions: Scenic beach, sunset views.
- Activities: Beach walks, swimming, picnicking.
- Location: 2 km from Kannur city.
3. Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach
Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach is the longest drive-in beach in Asia, stretching over 4 km along the Malabar Coast. It is the only drive-in beach in Kerala, allowing visitors to drive along the shore. The beach is known for its hard-packed sand and shallow waters, making it safe for swimming and driving. Muzhappilangad is a popular destination for water sports, including parasailing and paragliding.
- Key Attractions: Drive-in beach, water sports.
- Activities: Driving on the beach, swimming, parasailing.
- Location: 15 km from Kannur city.
4. Parassinikkadavu Snake Park
Parassinikkadavu Snake Park is a unique conservation center dedicated to the protection and education of snakes and reptiles. The park is home to a wide variety of snake species, including cobras, vipers, and pythons, as well as other reptiles like crocodiles and lizards. The park aims to raise awareness about the importance of reptiles in the ecosystem and dispel myths about snakes. Visitors can attend live snake shows and learn about the different species.
- Key Attractions: Wide variety of reptiles, live snake shows.
- Activities: Exploring the park, attending educational programs.
- Location: 16 km from Kannur city.
5. Arakkal Museum
Arakkal Museum is a unique museum dedicated to the Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal family in Kerala. The museum is housed in the Arakkal Palace, showcasing a collection of royal artifacts, including furniture, weapons, and historical documents. The museum provides a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Arakkal dynasty. The palace’s architecture and the exhibits offer an interesting insight into the region’s royal heritage.
- Key Attractions: Royal artifacts, historical documents.
- Activities: Exploring the museum, learning about the Arakkal dynasty.
- Location: Kannur city.
6. Dharmadam Island
Dharmadam Island, also known as Green Island, is a small, picturesque island located near the town of Thalassery. The island is covered with lush greenery and is surrounded by shallow waters. During low tide, visitors can walk to the island from the mainland. The island offers a tranquil retreat with its serene surroundings and is a perfect spot for picnics and nature walks. The view of the island from the nearby Dharmadam Beach is particularly enchanting.
- Key Attractions: Lush greenery, serene environment.
- Activities: Walking to the island, picnicking, nature walks.
- Location: 15 km from Kannur city.
7. Kannur Lighthouse
Kannur Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located near Payyambalam Beach. The lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding coastline. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy the breathtaking views and take in the fresh sea breeze. The lighthouse, painted in striking red and white stripes, is a prominent landmark in Kannur and offers an excellent photo opportunity.
- Key Attractions: Panoramic views, historical significance.
- Activities: Climbing the lighthouse, photography.
- Location: 3 km from Kannur city.
8. Thalassery Fort
Thalassery Fort, built by the British East India Company in the 18th century, is a historical fort located in the town of Thalassery. The fort played a crucial role in the British colonization of the Malabar region. It is known for its strong walls, secret tunnels, and underground chambers. The fort offers a glimpse into the colonial history of the region and provides beautiful views of the Arabian Sea.
- Key Attractions: Historical architecture, sea views.
- Activities: Exploring the fort, learning about colonial history.
- Location: 22 km from Kannur city.
9. Madayi Para
Madayi Para is a beautiful hillock located near the town of Payangadi. The hill is known for its rich biodiversity, including a variety of rare plants and birds. The area is also home to the ancient Madayi Kavu Temple and the ruins of a historic fort. The hill offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Pazhayangadi River and the Arabian Sea. It is a great place for trekking and nature photography.
- Key Attractions: Rich biodiversity, ancient temple.
- Activities: Trekking, bird watching, exploring historical ruins.
- Location: 25 km from Kannur city.
10. Ezhimala
Ezhimala is a prominent hill located on the northern coastline of Kannur. The hill is known for its historical significance and natural beauty. It is believed to have been a naval base during ancient times and is now home to the Indian Naval Academy. The hill offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding landscape. The Ezhimala Beach, located at the base of the hill, is a serene and unspoiled beach.
- Key Attractions: Historical significance, scenic views.
- Activities: Exploring the hill, visiting the beach.
- Location: 38 km from Kannur city.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Distance from City Center |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Angelo Fort | Historic fort with panoramic sea views | Historic architecture, sea views | 3 km from Kannur |
| Payyambalam Beach | Scenic beach with golden sands | Sunset views, peaceful atmosphere | 2 km from Kannur |
| Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach | Longest drive-in beach in Asia | Driving on the beach, water sports | 15 km from Kannur |
| Parassinikkadavu Snake Park | Conservation center for snakes and reptiles | Variety of reptiles, live shows | 16 km from Kannur |
| Arakkal Museum | Museum showcasing the heritage of the Arakkal dynasty | Royal artifacts, historical documents | Kannur city |
| Dharmadam Island | Picturesque island accessible during low tide | Lush greenery, serene environment | 15 km from Kannur |
| Kannur Lighthouse | Historic lighthouse with panoramic views | Panoramic views, historical significance | 3 km from Kannur |
| Thalassery Fort | Historical fort with colonial significance | Fort architecture, sea views | 22 km from Kannur |
| Madayi Para | Hillock with rich biodiversity and historical ruins | Trekking, Madayi Kavu Temple | 25 km from Kannur |
| Ezhimala | Prominent hill with scenic views | Historical significance, Ezhimala Beach | 38 km from Kannur |
How to Reach Kannur
By Flight
Kannur International Airport, located about 28 km from the city center, is the nearest airport. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India and a few international destinations. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kannur.
By Train
Kannur Railway Station is a major railway hub in Kerala, with regular trains connecting to cities across India. The station is conveniently located in the city, making it easy to access various attractions.
By Road
Kannur is well-connected by road, with National Highways and State Highways passing through the district. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular bus services to and from major cities in Kerala and neighboring states. Private buses and taxis are also available.
Best Time to Visit Kannur
The best time to visit Kannur is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, making the landscape lush and green. The
winter months are ideal for exploring the beaches, forts, and cultural sites.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Kannur is known for its delicious Malabar cuisine, including dishes like Malabar Biryani, Thalassery Biriyani, and various seafood specialties. Don’t miss trying the local delicacies during your visit.
- Cultural Insights: Kannur has a rich cultural heritage, with various festivals, art forms, and traditional performances, including Theyyam. Plan your visit to coincide with local festivals to experience the vibrant culture.
- Safety Tips: Kannur is generally safe for travelers, but it’s advisable to take common precautions, especially in crowded areas and while exploring remote locations. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to St. Angelo Fort, exploring the fort’s history and enjoying the views of the Arabian Sea. Have breakfast at a nearby café.
- Afternoon: Head to Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach for a unique experience of driving along the shore. Visit the nearby Arakkal Museum to learn about the Arakkal dynasty.
- Evening: End your day with a relaxing time at Payyambalam Beach, enjoying the sunset and a leisurely stroll along the shore.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with a trip to Parassinikkadavu Snake Park, exploring the variety of reptiles and attending live shows. In the afternoon, visit Dharmadam Island for a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
- Day 2: Start the day with a visit to Thalassery Fort, exploring its colonial history and enjoying the sea views. In the afternoon, head to Ezhimala for a scenic trek and a visit to Ezhimala Beach.
Kannur offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring historic forts and beautiful beaches to enjoying the rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, Kannur promises an enriching and memorable experience.
