Kannur District Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Kannur District, including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Kannur District

Located in the Malabar region of Kerala, Kannur District is home to rich cultural heritage, pristine natural beauty, and an abundance of adventure activities. The district’s rugged coastline, rolling hills, and dense forests make it one of the most picturesque regions of South India. Kannur is known for its unique art forms, festivals, and historic significance. The district is a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature.

List of Places to Visit in Kannur District

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. St. Angelo Fort - A 16th-century fort, built by the Portuguese, which stands tall on the shore of the Arabian Sea.

  2. Kannur Lighthouse - Constructed in 1903, the lighthouse offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

  3. Arakkal Museum - A museum dedicated to the Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal family in Kerala.

  4. Pazhassi Dam - A dam constructed for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation, surrounded by a lush green landscape.

Natural Attractions of Kannur District: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Payyambalam Beach - A beautiful beach with golden sand, crystal-clear water, and a long walkway.

  2. Muzhappilangad Beach - One of the longest drive-in beaches in India, which offers thrilling adventure activities like parasailing, paragliding, and horse riding.

  3. Paithalmala - A trekker’s paradise, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.

  4. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary - A natural habitat for various species like elephants, tigers, leopards, and many more.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kannur District

  1. Ezhimala Hill - A popular trekking destination with historical importance.

  2. Choottad Beach Trek - A scenic trek that takes you across a forest, hills, and a beach.

  3. Valiyaparamba Backwaters - A pleasant bike ride along the calm backwaters amidst the lush greenery.

Best Things to Do in Kannur District: Activities and Tours

  1. Theyyam Dance Performance - A traditional ritual enactment of North Malabar.

  2. Cycling Through The Countryside - A stimulating ride through the scenic and peaceful countryside.

  3. Houseboat Tour in Valiyaparamba - A leisurely trip that offers a chance to relax on a traditional houseboat while exploring the backwaters of the district.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kannur District

Day Activity
1 Visit St. Angelo Fort and Kannur Lighthouse.
2 Trekking to Ezhimala Hill.
3 Enjoy an adventurous day at Muzhappilangad Beach.
4 Houseboat Tour in Valiyaparamba Backwaters.
5 Explore Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary.
6 Visit Arakkal Museum and learn about the Arakkal family’s history.
7 Relax and rejuvenate at Payyambalam Beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Kannur District

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Malabar Biryani - A flavorful dish with rice, spices, and meat, cooked in a unique style.

  2. Nadan Kozhi Curry - A spicy chicken curry, cooked in a traditional way.

  3. Parotta and Beef Fry - A popular breakfast dish, made with flaky, layered bread and spicy beef.

Local Beverages

  1. Chaya - The traditional Malabar tea with a unique blend of spices.

  2. Toddy - A popular alcoholic beverage made from coconut palm tree sap.

Where to Stay in Kannur District: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Mascot Beach Resort - A luxury resort located near the famous Payyambalam Beach.

  2. Malgudi Homestay - An ideal homestay for budget travelers, located in a peaceful rural area.

  3. Kairali Heritage Resort - A serene and peaceful resort, situated amidst lush greenery.

What to Buy in Kannur District: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handloom Products - Kannur’s handloom textile industry is famous for its unique designs and quality.

  2. Spices - Kannur is well-known for its exotic spices, which are available in a variety of blends.

Local Culture and Customs of Kannur District

Kannur District is known for its unique art forms, like the Theyyam dance ritual, and the traditional handloom textile industry. The Arakkal family has a rich cultural legacy that showcases the rich history of the region. Kannur celebrates many festivals throughout the year, including the famous Theyyam Festival.

Best Time to Visit Kannur District

The best time to visit Kannur District is from October to March when the weather is pleasant with cool breeze and relatively low humidity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kannur District

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions.

  2. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the region through various outdoor activities.

  3. Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  1. Disturb the wildlife in wildlife sanctuaries.

  2. Litter the natural surroundings.

  3. Disrespect the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kannur District

Kannur District is generally a safe place to visit, with very low crime rates. However, visitors are advised to take normal precautions like not venturing out alone late at night and taking care of their belongings.

Health in Kannur District

Visitors are recommended to carry personal medications and insect repellents. Kannur has several good hospitals and clinics, in case of a medical emergency.

Getting to Kannur District: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kannur District

Kannur International Airport is the closest airport, which is well-connected to major Indian cities.

Bus Stations Near Kannur District

Kannur has a well-developed bus network, with regular buses plying from major cities across Kerala and South India.

Other Options

Visitors can also choose to travel by train or hire a private cab to reach Kannur District.

How to Get Around in Kannur District

Visitors can choose to travel via local buses, hire private cabs, or use the services of auto-rickshaws to get around the district.

Where to Go Next from Kannur District: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Wayanad District - Famous for its stunning natural beauty and wildlife sanctuaries.

  2. Coorg District - Known for its scenic beauty and coffee plantations.

  3. Mysore - A culturally rich city known for its palaces, temples, and museums.

Conclusion

Kannur District is a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature. It offers a unique glimpse into South Indian culture and is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. With so much to explore and experience, Kannur District is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore the diverse culture and nature scenery of Kerala.

Hanging bridge area, Kuttiyeri, Taliparamba Hanging bridge area, Kuttiyeri, Taliparamba Valapattanam village Valapattanam village Boating in Kannur Boating in Kannur Onam festival at Blathoor Onam festival at Blathoor Muthappan dance Muthappan dance Parassinikkadavu Temple Parassinikkadavu Temple Chalil Temple, Azhikode Chalil Temple, Azhikode


    Iritty
    Kannapuram
    Kannur
    Kurumathur
    Mattanur
    Parassinikkadavu
    Taliparamba