Tirur Travel Guide

Discover the scenic beauty, cultural attractions, local cuisine, and outdoor adventures of Tirur, a hidden gem in Malabar, Kerala, India.


Tirur Travel Guide: Discover the Best of Malabar in Kerala, India

Welcome to Tirur, a small town in Malappuram District, Kerala, India, blessed with pristine beaches, lush greenery, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. This comprehensive travel guide will help you explore the hidden gems of Tirur, from its museums, historical landmarks, natural wonders, hiking and biking trails, to its vibrant food and drink scene, local culture, and customs.

Introduction to Tirur

Tirur is a town located in the Malappuram district of Kerala, India. It is situated in the region of Malabar, which is known for its picturesque landscapes, coconut groves, and centuries-old heritage. Tirur is an ideal destination for cultural tourists, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts. The town boasts of a rich history that dates back to the medieval period and has been mentioned in the works of the famous 14th-century traveler, Ibn Battuta. Today, Tirur is a bustling hub of traditional handicrafts, music, and dance, and home to some of the best beaches in Kerala.

List of Places to Visit in Tirur

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Tirur offers a glimpse into the diverse cultural heritage of Kerala, with its numerous museums and historical landmarks. Some of the top attractions include:

  • Thunchan Memorial Trust: This is the house of Kerala’s famous poet and scholar, Thunchaththu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan, who is regarded as the father of Malayalam literature. The house now serves as a memorial to the poet and has a library, museum, and study center.

  • Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala: This Ayurvedic hospital was founded in 1902 and is famous for its traditional Ayurvedic treatments and medicines.

  • Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple: This is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Kerala, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Bhagavathy. The temple is known for its annual festival, which attracts thousands of devotees.

Natural Attractions of Tirur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you want to reconnect with nature, then Tirur has plenty of options for you. Some of the must-visit natural attractions include:

  • Ponnani Beach: This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Kerala, known for its vast expanse of golden sand and clear turquoise waters.

  • Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary: This bird sanctuary is home to over 60 species of migratory birds, including herons, egrets, cormorants, and kingfishers.

  • Tirur River: This river is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and kayaking. It is also an excellent place to see local birds and wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tirur

Tirur offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in Kerala, along with stunning panoramic views of the Malabar coast. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Nilambur Forest: This forest is located about 30 kilometers from Tirur and offers some of the most scenic hiking and biking trails in Kerala. You can also visit the famous Teak Museum and the Adyanpara Waterfalls.

  • Beypore Beach: This is a beautiful beach located near Calicut, about 50 kilometers from Tirur. You can rent a bike and cycle along the serene backwaters of Beypore, or take a stroll along the sandy beach.

Best Things to Do in Tirur: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Tirur has plenty of other activities and tours to offer, such as:

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: You can explore the serene backwaters of Tirur by kayaking or canoeing. It’s a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the beautiful natural scenery.

  • Cooking Classes: Tirur is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, and many locals offer cooking classes where you can learn to prepare dishes such as appam, puttu, and fish curry.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tirur

If you’re planning a week-long visit to Tirur, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Thunchan Memorial Trust and Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple
Day 2 Explore Ponnani Beach and Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary
Day 3 Take a hike or bike ride in the Nilambur Forest
Day 4 Visit Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala and try an Ayurvedic spa treatment
Day 5 Go kayaking or canoeing in the Tirur River
Day 6 Attend a cooking class and learn to cook traditional Kerala cuisine
Day 7 Relax on Beypore Beach or visit the historical city of Calicut

Food and Drink Scene of Tirur

Kerala is known for its delicious cuisine, and Tirur is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Tirur:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Puttu: This is a breakfast food made of steamed rice flour and grated coconut. It is usually served with spicy fish curry or black coffee.

  • Appam: This is a type of pancake made of fermented rice batter and coconut milk. It is usually served with sweetened coconut milk or chicken curry.

  • Kallummakkaya: This is a popular seafood dish made of mussels cooked in a spicy coconut curry.

Local Beverages

  • Karikku: This is a refreshing drink made of coconut water, served in a fresh coconut shell.

  • Sulaimani: This is a black tea made with lime juice and spices such as cardamom and ginger.

Where to Stay in Tirur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tirur has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Some of the top-rated options include:

  • KTDC Tamarind Kondotty: This resort is located on the outskirts of Tirur and offers comfortable rooms and cottages, along with a swimming pool and a restaurant.

  • Hotel Parkway Palace: This hotel is located in the heart of Tirur and offers elegant rooms and suites, along with a fitness center and a rooftop restaurant.

  • Pinnacle Schooner Resorts: This resort is located near Beypore Beach and offers stylish rooms and suites, along with a spa and a beachfront restaurant.

What to Buy in Tirur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

No trip to Tirur is complete without taking home some local souvenirs and products. Some of the best items to buy in Tirur include:

  • Handmade Crafts: Tirur is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as coir mats, wooden toys, and handloom textiles.

  • Spices: Kerala is famous for its spices, such as black pepper, cardamom, and cloves. You can buy them in local markets and spice shops in Tirur.

Local Culture and Customs of Tirur

Tirur has a rich cultural heritage, and the locals are proud of their traditions, music, and dance forms. Here are some interesting facts about the local culture and customs of Tirur:

  • Garba: This is a folk dance form that originated in Gujarat and is popular in Tirur. It involves circular movements and clapping to the rhythm of the music.

  • Vallamkali: This is a traditional boat race that takes place on the Tirur River every year during the Onam festival. It is a major cultural event that attracts thousands of spectators.

Best Time to Visit Tirur

The best time to visit Tirur is between November and February, when the weather is pleasant and dry. This is also the peak tourist season, so make sure to book your accommodation well in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tirur

Do:

  • Respect Local Customs: Tirur is a culturally rich town, and it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions.

  • Try Local Cuisine: Tirur is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, and it’s a must-try for food lovers.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Tirur is a pristine town, and it’s important to keep it clean and tidy. Please dispose of your garbage in designated areas.

  • Disrespect Religious Customs: Tirur has several temples and mosques, and it’s important to be respectful of the religious customs and practices.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tirur

Tirur is a safe town for tourists, but it’s always advisable to take precautions, such as:

  • Avoid Walking Alone at Night: Stick to well-lit areas and travel in groups whenever possible.

  • Carry a Copy of Your Passport: Keep a copy of your passport and other important documents in case of an emergency.

Health in Tirur

Tirur has good healthcare facilities, but it’s important to take precautions, such as:

  • Drink Bottled Water: Avoid drinking tap water and stick to bottled water.

  • Protect Against Mosquitoes: Tirur is located in a tropical region and can have mosquitoes that carry diseases like dengue fever and malaria.

Getting to Tirur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tirur is well-connected to the rest of Kerala and India via air, road, and rail.

Airports Near Tirur

  • Calicut International Airport: This is the nearest airport to Tirur, located about 50 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Tirur

  • Tirur Bus Stand: This is the main bus station in Tirur, with regular services to major towns and cities in Kerala and India.

Other Options

  • Train: Tirur has a railway station that is well-connected to major towns and cities in Kerala and India.

  • Car: You can also hire a car or take a taxi to reach Tirur from Calicut or other nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Tirur

Tirur is a small town, and it’s easy to get around on foot, by bicycle, or by taxi.

Where to Go Next from Tirur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tirur is a gateway to other beautiful destinations in Kerala, such as:

  • Wayanad: This picturesque hill station is located about 160 kilometers from Tirur and offers stunning tea gardens, wildlife, and waterfalls.

  • Malabar Coast: This coastal region of Kerala is known for its beaches, backwaters, and ancient ports.

Conclusion

Tirur is a hidden gem in Kerala, a beautiful and rich destination where you can explore the cultural heritage of Malabar, experience the warm hospitality of the locals, connect with nature, and indulge in delicious traditional cuisine. Follow this travel guide to make the most of your trip to Tirur and create unforgettable memories.

Wagon Tragedy Memorial, Tirur Wagon Tragedy Memorial, Tirur Thunjan parambu Thunjan parambu Thunjan's Bird Thunjan's Bird Aviyal or mixed vegetable fry is popular in Tirur Aviyal or mixed vegetable fry is popular in Tirur