KOZHIKODE

A beach is one of the few places on earth, which makes one realize how big our mother earth is and how small we all look in front of it. Also, it is one of those places, which provides extreme peace and relaxation to people, in search for serenity. Kozhikode Beach is the most popular attractions of Kozhikode, which gives sunset viewers an unforgettable sight of Arabian Sea and soothing water, reaching the shore in a rhythmic way. The old lighthouse and two crumbling piers that run into the Sea add to the beauty of the beach and retain its old world charm. This beach has a prominent place in the history of Calicut as there used to be a key port, where traders from Arabia and China weighed anchor and had been trading for centuries. The dock used by them still exists in the same place, though in ruins now. The 19th century piers have withstood the merciless beatings of waves, but have finally begun to collapse. This exotic destination gives tourists a wide option to spend an evening chatting or gazing at the setting sun and enjoy scrumptious food, served at the beach shacks. It’s perfect setting and wonderful surroundings make it an ideal place to relax and unwind and take bath in the crystal clear water of Arabian Sea. The beach is surrounded by plenty of restaurants, hotels, and spa, where tourists can indulge in soothing activities to get a joyous feeling.
 

Beypore, situated at a distance of 10 kms from Calicut town, is an ancient port with a vibrant history. It was a chief harbour as well as a commercial hub which had established trade links with several Arab, Asian and Europeans cities. According to history, it served as a major trading centre on the silk route and had commercial connections with Mesopotamia as well. Located on the banks of Chaliyar River, this port town is best known for its shipbuilding yards. Wooden ships, known by the name of Uru, were constructed in Beypore shipyard and these ships were extremely popular during ancient times. The shipbuilding in Beypore has a tradition of about 1500 years and the ships built here exhibited excellent skill and craftsmanship. Today Beypore port is Kerala’s biggest port next to Kochi. The prominent attractions of Beypore includes its port, shipbuilding yards, a stone bridge that stretches into the ocean, a light house, fishing harbours and the bird sanctuary situated in Kadalundi.
 

Located 16 kms away from Kozhikode in the south India state of Kerala, the beautiful place called Kappad beach was discovered by the Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama during 15th century. It is nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it an ideal beach holiday destination for relaxation. Dotted with fascinating formation of rocks on all its sides, the beach landscape includes several coconut groves and long stretches of silvery sands drenched by lathered surf that soothingly rolls up and down the shores. Also known as Kappakadavu beach, it's one of the famous beaches that is just 16 kms away from Calicut, India. It is very calm and famous for its tranquillity and scenic beauty. A very thrilling feature of the Kappad beach is the rock that protrudes into the sea. The major attraction of the beach is an 800 years old temple, located nearby Kappad beach. For visitors it's suggested to come through backwaters to reach Kappad beach in order to explore the beauty of nature. The golden sand and fishing hamlets in the vicinage also add to its peacefulness. Less crowded and unspoilt, the beautiful backwaters of Kappad offer an enthralling experience.
 

Peruvannamuzhi Dam, located at a distance of 43 kms from Calicut city, is a picturesque damsite. It is situated in small and scenic village named Peruvannamuzhi and there are frequent bus services to the place. There are several attractions attached to the dam site which draws hundreds of tourists and travellers. This spot has an artificial lake where travellers can avail boating facilities. Smaraka Thottam, a garden made to honour freedom fighters, is yet another recreational space where visitors can spend their time strolling through. The crocodile farm and the bird sanctuary located closer the dam site are worth visiting. The sanctuary is a real delight for birdwatchers for it is home to over 90 species of birds. The region of Peruvannamuzhi is part of the Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary and excites visitors with its animal and plant life. The spot is rich with a wide variety of spices and Indian Institute of Spice Research is located here. The reservoir is open till 6:00 pm on all days except Sundays and national holidays.
 

The Forest Dept. is maintaining a crocodile farm at Peruvannamuzhy near the dam site. There is a Forest Complex, by name Vanasree, at Mathottom in Beypore panchayat just 5kms away from the city which accommodates the Regional Divisional & Range Offices.
 

Kakkayam is a scenic dam site situated at a distance of 45 kms from Calicut city. The region, best known for its wide range of plant and animal life, attracts tourists and trekkers alike. Adventure activities such as rock climbing and trekking can be carried out in Kakkayam. Located along the Western Ghats, this spot is surrounded by thick forest. The region has excellent trekking trails and is under the administration of forest police. Kakkayam Reservoir is located in the region which attracts picnickers and adventure enthusiasts. The area offers a picturesque panorama to the spectator and serves as a perfect spot for family tours, adventure trips and one day picnics. Kakkayam can be reached by road from Calicut. There are frequent buses available from Calicut city bus stand also known as Mofussil Bus Stand.