Tourist attractions in Calicut offer a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Kerala.
Calicut (Kozhikode) is known for its rich heritage, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine, provides an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to explore its unique charm.
As a Keralite who has visited Calicut several times, I hold a deep appreciation for this heritage city. Each visit to Calicut reveals new facets of its cultural tapestry, from ancient temples and historic mosques to bustling markets and serene beaches.
In this blog, I will guide you through some of the top places to visit in Kozhikode, ensuring you don’t miss the gems that make this city so special.
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What is Calicut Famous For?
I find Calicut famous for three things—history, food, and cultural heritage. Let me share a glimpse into each of these aspects before I get to the tourist attractions in Calicut.
Best Resorts in Kozhikode (Calicut)
The Raviz Kadavu:- 5 Star Resort, Heritage Property, Pool, Spa, Ayurvedic Wellness Center, Yoga Center, Complimentary Buffet Breakfast
Le Candles Resort: Eco-Resort, Pool, Yoga Center, Complimentary Buffet Breakfast
The Gateway Hotel: Pool, Spa, Ayurvedic Wellness Center
Historical Significance of Calicut
Calicut had an ancient port named Tyndis which brought in spice traders from across the world. Due to its prominence in spice trade, it earned the title of “City of Spices.” During medieval times, Kozhikode served as the capital of an independent kingdom before becoming the center of the Malabar District.
In 1498, Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese explorer landed at Kappad Beach in Calicut to mark the beginning of European colonization in India. Later, the Dutch and even the British made their way to Calicut as part of their colonial expansions.
Calicut was also at the center of Kerala’s Indian independence struggle. This is reminiscent in the installations at Freedom Square, Kozhikode Beach.
Food Culture of Calicut
I love Calicut for its food! With its reputation for hospitality and amazing food, Calicut is considered the food capital of Kerala. The city’s food culture is deeply rooted in its historical role as a major trading hub, which brought in a myriad of spices and cooking techniques from around the world.
From its iconic and award-winning restaurants to an entire street (S.M Street) celebrating the local snacks like Kozhikodan halwa, chatti pathiri, unnakaya, to banana chips, Calicut is a must-visit for any food lover.
Cultural Heritage of Calicut
Calicut is a city deeply embedded in the cultural and literary fabric of Kerala. Historically, it has been a melting pot of various cultures due to its significance as a major trading port. This convergence of cultures is reflected in the city’s vibrant traditions, arts, and literary achievements, making it a hub of cultural and intellectual activity in the region.
The city has been home to numerous renowned writers, poets, and scholars who have shaped Malayalam literature. One of the notable literary figures associated with Calicut is S.K. Pottekkatt, whose works have won several accolades, including the Jnanpith Award, the highest literary honor in India.
The city also boasts a strong tradition of Malayalam journalism and publishing. The historic Mathrubhumi newspaper, founded in Calicut in 1923, has played a crucial role in the literary and cultural discourse of Kerala.
Calicut’s literary clubs and cultural organizations, including Kerala Literature Festival (KLF), further nurture the city’s literary scene. This literary heritage earned Calicut the tag of UNESCO City of Literature status in 2023.
Calicut Tourist Attractions
Calicut is rich in tourist attractions and experiences. Here is a list of the best Calicut tourist attractions.
Kozhikode Beach
Kozhikode Beach, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Calicut and also, my favorite spot in Calicut. The beach, with its golden sands and gentle waves, is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a quiet evening watching the sunset. It’s a hub of activity, especially in the evenings, with food vendors selling local delicacies like picked veggies and kulukki sherbet.
The old lighthouse and the two piers extending into the sea add a historical touch to the beach, providing picturesque views and photo opportunities. In Calicut, Kozhikode Beach is the place to experience the lively spirit of the city.
Freedom Square
Freedom Square is a prominent landmark at Kozhikode Beach that commemorates the freedom fighters of Kerala who played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement. This installation, inaugurated in 2021, is also the venue for Kerala Literature Festival (KLF). Freedom Square has since 2021 been the venue of several other socio-cultural events as well throughout the year.
Freedom Square is an architectural marvel with a blend of traditional and modern styles. There are several plaques displayed on the installation that explains the role of Kerala’s freedom fighters in the Indian freedom struggle.
Kappad Beach
Kappad Beach is another major tourist attraction in Calicut. This beach holds a special place in Indian history as the landing site of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in 1498, marking the beginning of European exploration in India. This historical beach is known for its tranquil atmosphere, clean sands, and rocky outcrops. In fact, Kappad Beach is one of India’s twelve Blue-Flag certified beach.
Kappad Beach is a well-maintained beach with a beautiful promenade. I like visiting Kappad Beach in the evening when the promenade comes alive with tourists and street vendors. If you want to truly experience the serenity of the beach, you will find several resorts near the beach for a relaxed stay.
As a history buff, on my last visit to Kappad Beach I set out to find the Vasco Da Gama Memorial I had read about. After asking the locals and walking past a mosque on a by-road, I finally found it. I must say, I was not very impressed by the moss-covered and dilapidated-looking structure, but it is what it is!
Tali Temple
The Tali Temple in Calicut is one of the oldest and most revered Hindu temples in Kerala. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this 14th century temple, is believed to have its main idol, a lingam, installed by Lord Parashurama.
The temple features traditional Kerala architecture with a chariot-shaped, two-storied sanctum adorned with murals and granite sculptures. The temple complex includes various deities such as Tali Ganapathy, Thevarathil Ganapathy, and Thrumandhakunnu Bhagavathy, along with separate shrines for Vishnu, Ayyappa, and Narasimha Moorthy.
Tali Temple was built by the local ruling family of Calicut known as Zamorins, or Samoothiris. The main annual function in Tali Temple is known as Revathi Pattathanam, a scholarly event and ritual conducted in November that attracts numerous devotees and visitors.
The temple is open to only Hindus. As a mark of respect, I visited the temple from outside and took a snap.
Tali Urban Heritage Core
Tali Urban Heritage Core is a unique place to visit in Calicut that celebrates the town’s literary heritage. I walked a little further north from Tali Temple towards the temple pond to reach Tali Urban Heritage.
This cultural center, located in a beautiful landscape on the bank of Tali temple pond and in front of Zamorin’s Government Higher Secondary School, celebrates the Zamorin heritage of Calicut. The art installations and murals narrate historical incidents from Zamorin’s rule in Calicut.
SM Street (Mittayi Therivu)
SM Street, or Mittayi Therivu, is my favorite place to visit in Calicut. Located at walking distance from Kozhikode Railway Station, this is a street with the best food and great clothing. As you stroll here, you will find stores selling clothing, footwear and accessories at dirt-cheap price. Of all the street shops I have “raided” in Kerala, SM Street has the best quality clothing.
SM Street is not just a shopping street. This is a historical and cultural hotspot. The street’s history dates back to the time of the Zamorins, who established it as a bustling trade hub.
S.M. Street has long been a commercial center, attracting traders from Arabia, China, and Europe frequented the area, contributing to the street’s diverse cultural and commercial heritage. This is reflected in the variety of goods once sold on the street, ranging from spices and textiles to handicrafts and jewelry.
The local vendors used to run small stalls with delicious halwa and banana chips. The street earned its name “Sweet Meat Street” (now shortened to SM Street) during the colonial period. The British, who loved the red halwa felt the large blocks of red looked like meat. Thus, they began to call it “sweet meat”. Over time, the street adopted the English name and came to be known as SM Street. But for any local or Keralite like me, it will always be “Mittayi Therivu.”
In 1960, renowned Malayalam writer, S K Pottekkatt, immortalized the street in his novel, “Oru Theruvinte Katha” (The Story of a Street). At the northern end of the street, you will find a statue of S K Pottekkatt and several installations depicting incidents for his novel.
Paragon Restaurant
Paragon Restaurant, located in Kozhikode, Kerala, is an iconic dining destination renowned for its exceptional cuisine and long-standing legacy. Established in 1939, Paragon has grown from a small eatery into one of the most celebrated restaurants in India, attracting food enthusiasts from all over the world. For me, dining at Paragon is must-have Calicut experience.
Paragon is famous for its diverse menu, which offers a wide range of Kerala delicacies, with a particular emphasis on Malabar cuisine. The restaurant is especially known for its biryanis, seafood dishes, and traditional Kerala meals. The Malabar Chicken Biryani, Fish Mango Curry, and Prawn Roast are some of the signature dishes that have earned Paragon a loyal following.
Paragon Restaurant was ranked 5th in the world’s most legendary restaurants by Taste Atlas in 2023. I love their biryani and fish mango curry.
Mishkal Mosque
The Mishkal Mosque is a historic attraction in Calicut, notable for its unique architecture and cultural significance.
Built in the 14th century by the Arab merchant Nakhooda Mishkal, the mosque stands out with its four-story structure and lack of a dome, a departure from traditional mosque designs.
The mosque is an important symbol of Calicut’s historical connections with the Arab world and its role as a center of trade and cultural exchange. The intricate wooden carvings and the large prayer hall reflect the architectural influences and craftsmanship of the period.
Despite being partially burned during a Portuguese attack in 1510, it was renovated and now stands with four stories, originally having five. The mosque has 47 doors, 24 carved pillars, and a large prayer hall that can accommodate around 400 people at a time.
The Zamorins of Calicut, although Hindus, played a significant role in the renovation and restoration of the mosque. This in line with the communal harmony and tolerance, Kerala prides itself in.
Pazhassi Raja Museum and Art Gallery
The Pazhassi Raja Museum, situated at East Hill, about five kilometers from Kozhikode Town, is a must visit Calicut museum. Named after King Pazhassi Raja, known as the ‘Lion of Kerala,’ the museum honors this great freedom fighter who resisted British colonization through guerrilla warfare in Wayanad’s hilly areas.
The building, originally constructed in 1812 and known as East Hill Bungalow, served as the residence for British Collectors of Kozhikode. After Independence, it continued as the office of the District Collector until 1976, when it was converted into an archaeological museum. In 1980, it was renamed the Pazhassi Raja Museum and underwent major renovations in the 1990s.
The museum’s exhibits include a variety of antiques and rare objects, such as ancient murals, earthenware, temple models, and old coins from different kingdoms and periods, including the Roman Empire and the reigns of Arakkal Raja and Tipu Sultan.
The museum also displays parts of megalithic monuments like umbrella stones and rock-cut caves. Adjacent to the museum is an art gallery that showcases works by master painter Raja Ravi Varma and his uncle Raja Raja Varma, known for their life-like portraits and meticulous detailing.
Mananchira Square
Mananchira Square is a historic and cultural landmark situated in the heart of Kozhikode, Kerala. This well-maintained park, surrounded by bustling city life, offers a serene oasis for locals and tourists alike.
The square is centered around Mananchira, a man-made freshwater pond originally built by the Zamorin of Kozhikode in the 14th century to supply water to the royal palace. Over the years, it has evolved into a popular public space, preserving its historical significance while embracing modernity.
The square is adorned with lush green lawns, sculptures, and an artificial hill, providing you with picturesque views and a peaceful environment. It is a hub for cultural activities and social gatherings, often hosting music concerts, exhibitions, and festivals that reflect the vibrant cultural heritage of Kozhikode. The open-air theater within the square adds to its charm, serving as a venue for various performances and events.
Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary
Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, located about 19 kilometers from Calicut, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Spanning across a cluster of small islands, this sanctuary is situated at the mouth of the Kadalundi River, where it meets the Arabian Sea. The diverse ecosystem of estuaries, mangrove forests, and sandbanks creates an ideal habitat for a variety of bird species, both resident and migratory.
During the migratory season, the sanctuary becomes a vibrant tapestry of avian life, with over 100 species of native birds and around 60 species of migratory birds flocking to the area. Notable among them are seagulls, terns, sandpipers, and herons. The sanctuary is also home to several species of fish, crabs, and mussels, adding to its ecological diversity.
Boating through the mangrove forest is another popular activity you can enjoy at Kadalundy Bird Sanctuary.
KIRTADS Ethnological Museum
If you are interested to learn about the tribal communities and cultures of Kerala, a visit to KIRTADS Ethnological Museum in Calicut is a must.
Managed by the Kerala Institute for Research, Training, and Development Studies (KIRTADS), the museum is dedicated to the preservation and study of the diverse indigenous communities of Kerala. It offers a fascinating insight into the lives, customs, and traditions of the tribal people of the state.
The museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts that depict the daily life and cultural practices of the tribal communities. These include traditional tools, agricultural implements, hunting equipment, musical instruments, and household items.
One of the key attractions of the museum is its display of tribal art and crafts. The museum also features traditional costumes, ornaments, and ceremonial objects that highlight the cultural diversity and richness of Kerala’s tribal communities.
In addition to its exhibits, KIRTADS Ethnological Museum plays a crucial role in research and documentation of tribal cultures. It serves as a resource center for scholars and researchers interested in the study of ethnology and anthropology. The museum regularly organizes workshops, seminars, and training programs to promote awareness and appreciation of tribal heritage.
Beypore Beach
Beypore Beach, located near Calicut, is renowned for its picturesque beauty and historic significance. The beach is famous for its traditional shipbuilding industry, where craftsmen construct wooden ships known as dhows or uru, a practice that dates back centuries. You can observe the intricate shipbuilding process and explore the bustling Beypore port.
The beach itself offers a serene environment with its sandy shores and gentle waves, making it a perfect spot for relaxation. The nearby Beypore Lighthouse adds to the charm, providing panoramic views of the coastline.
One of the main attractions of Beypore Beach is the Beypore Port, which has been a significant trading hub since ancient times. The port’s historical importance is reflected in its vibrant fishing community and the lively market where fresh catches are sold daily. You can enjoy watching fishermen at work, bringing in their daily haul, which adds a unique charm to the beach atmosphere.
Sarovaram Bio Park
Sarovaram Bio Park is a stunning ecological park in Calicut that showcases the rich biodiversity of the region. Spanning over 100 acres, the park features a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is designed to promote conservation and education, providing you with an immersive experience of Kerala’s unique ecosystems.
The park is characterized by its lush greenery, serene water bodies, and well-maintained pathways, offering a tranquil environment for leisurely strolls and picnics. One of the main highlights of Sarovaram Bio Park is its extensive network of wetlands, which serve as vital habitats for various bird species, including migratory birds that visit during the winter months. Birdwatching enthusiasts can enjoy observing these species in their natural habitat.
In addition to its natural beauty, Sarovaram Bio Park features a butterfly park, an aquarium, and a children’s park, making it a family-friendly destination.
Mother of God Roman Catholic Cathedral
The Mother of God Roman Catholic Cathedral in Calicut is a prominent religious and historical landmark.
This beautiful cathedral, also known as Mater Dei Cathedral, was built in the Roman architectural style and dates back to the 16th century, making it one of the oldest churches in the region.
The cathedral’s stunning stained-glass windows, high arches, and serene interiors provide a peaceful environment for worship and reflection. It is a significant site for the local Catholic community and attracts visitors for its historical importance and architectural beauty.
Regional Science Centre and Planetarium
The Regional Science Centre and Planetarium in Calicut is a major attraction for science enthusiasts and families.
The center aims to promote scientific knowledge and curiosity through its interactive exhibits, educational programs, and demonstrations. You can explore various sections dedicated to different fields of science, including physics, biology, and astronomy.
The planetarium offers immersive shows that take audiences on a journey through the cosmos, providing an engaging way to learn about stars, planets, and space exploration. The science center also hosts workshops and special events, making it an exciting and educational destination for people of all ages.
Art Gallery And Krishna Menon Museum
The Art Gallery and Krishna Menon Museum in Calicut is a cultural hub that houses an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts. The art gallery showcases works by renowned artists, including paintings, sculptures, and traditional Kerala murals.
It offers you a chance to appreciate the rich artistic heritage of the region. Adjacent to the art gallery, the Krishna Menon Museum is dedicated to V.K. Krishna Menon, an eminent Indian diplomat and politician. The museum features a collection of his personal belongings, documents, and photographs, providing insights into his life and contributions.
Together, the art gallery and museum offer a comprehensive cultural experience, highlighting both artistic and historical aspects of Kerala.
Wrapping Up: Calicut Tourist Attractions
Calicut is a treasure trove of tourist attractions that celebrate its rich history and cultural diversity.
From the architectural marvels of ancient temples and mosques to the natural beauty of its beaches and parks, there is something for every traveler to enjoy. Whether you’re indulging in the local cuisine or exploring the vibrant markets, Calicut promises a memorable experience.
I hope this guide inspires you to discover the enchanting sights and sounds of Kozhikode, allowing you to create your own cherished memories in this remarkable city.
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