Kozhikode (Calicut), the most important region of Malabar in yesteryears, was the capital of the powerful Zamorins and also a prominent trade and commerce center.

Kozhikode District found a place in the World History with the discovery of Sea Route to India in 1498 by the Portuguese Navigator Vasco Da Gama. Vasco Da Gama landed at the Kappad sea shore with three vessels and 170 men. A monument is constucted here to commemorate the historical landing.

Kozhikode city continues to be a centre of flourishing domestic and international trade. Its contribution to all round development of the district in trade, commerce and economic development over the years is spectacular. Kozhikode city is the marketing centre for commodities like pepper coconut, coffee, rubber, lemon grass oil etc., produced in Kozhikode and the neighbouring districts of Wayanad, Malappuram and Kannur.

Basking in the idyllic setting of the serene Arabian Sea on the west and the proud peaks of the Wayanad hills on the east, this district with the serene beaches, lush green countryside, historic sites, all combine to make Kozhikode a popular tourist destination filled with a warm ambience to fascinate a visitor.

ATTRACTIONS

• Kalipoika (2 km from Kozhikode): One can leisurely cruise on the dappled waters at Kalipoika in both pedal and row boats.

• Kozhikode Beach: This beach is a favourite haunt of sunset viewers. Adding to its natural beauty is the old world charm retained in the old lighthouse and the two crumbling piers, each more than a hundred years old, that run into the sea. Entertainment facilities such as the Lions Park for children and the marine water aquarium are added attractions.

• Velliyamkallu: This massive rock, much dreaded by navigators, was once a vantage point for the Marakkars to attack the invading Portuguese. An entire crew of a Portuguese ship was killed here. The beautiful natural engravings on the rock areworth exploring.

• Thikkoti Lighthouse: The lighthouse which overlooks Velliyamkallu off Moodadi coast was built after a shipwreck, the remains of which can still be seen here. The region around the Velliyamkallu rock is the transit home of migratory birds.

• Payyoli: This is yet another beautiful stretch of golden sands with shallow waters that border Velliyamkallu.

• Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary (25 km from Kozhikode): The estuary at Kadalundi is a haven for migratory birds. Terns, gulls, herons, sandpipers, whimbrels and other exotic birds flock into this place in November and return home in April.

• Kakkayam (45 km from Kozhikode): This picturesque damsite, teeming with exotic wildlife, offers excellent trekking and rock climbing opportunities.

• Tusharagiri (50 km from Kozhikode): As the name suggests, land and water have struck an extraordinary kinship here. Famous for its trekking tracks, Tusharagiri is located near Vythiri in Wayanad. Trekkers start early morning from the second waterfall and climb uphill through the pristine, dense evergreen forests populated with exotic birds and wildlife to reach Vythiri by evening. Tusharagiri also abounds in rubber, arecanut, pepper, ginger and spice plantations.

• Peruvannamuzhi (60 km from Kozhikode): The Peruvannamuzhi dam site set amid hills is a beautiful picnic spot. The reservoir here provides facilities for speed and row boat cruises during which one can see the Smarakathottam - a garden built in memory of the freedomfighters of the region. Uninhabited islands, the bird sanctuary and a crocodile farm add to the charm of the place.

• Vellari Mala: Scintillating waterfalls and velvet green landscapes make this an ideal spot for trekking.

• Wayanad Ghats: The green ghats enroute to Wayanad has nine hairpin bends, each turn taking one to a higher altitude offering a better view of the picturesque plains below. This route explored by a tribal was developed by the British.

• Backwaters of Kozhikode Unexplored, unspoiled, the backwaters of Kozhikode hold great promises of enchanting holiday options. Elathur, the Canoli Canal and the Kallai River are favourite destinations for boating. Kadalundi, with its beautiful bird sanctuary is a charming site. Korapuzha, the venue of the Korapuzha Jalotsavam is fast becoming a popular watersports destination.