Kannur: Discover the Coast, Culture and Nature

Kannur offers a variety of travel experiences: long beaches, historic and cultural sites, and mountain and water landscapes. When planning your stay, you can first consider whether you want to focus on relaxing by the sea, culture or activities in nature. The options differ considerably—from quiet moments on the beach to trekking routes and boat trips.

Beaches and Water Activities

Payyambalam Beach stretches for more than four kilometres and is suitable for family picnics and peaceful relaxation. Surfing and swimming are also possible there; check locally whether these activities are available. This lets you distinguish between a relaxing beach stay and activities on the water without assuming that both will necessarily be available.

Muzhappilangad Beach has four kilometres of sandy shoreline along which visitors can drive. Local conditions may affect vehicle access. Natural black rocks around the beach protect it from strong ocean currents. Parasailing and other water sports and adventure activities add to what is on offer; check locally whether these are available too.

History, Theyyam and Handicrafts

St. Angelo's Fort was built in 1505 by Dom Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese viceroy of India. Massive triangular bastions and thick laterite stone walls define its architecture. The fort offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Its history, architecture and views provide different points of interest for a cultural stay.

Arakkal Kottaram is a complex of buildings that includes residences, mosques, an administrative block and a commercial centre. Arakkal Kettu houses a museum of antiques belonging to the family; it is managed by a family trust. The two sites thus represent different aspects of architecture, history and collections.

The Kerala Folklore Academy brings together a folklore library, a museum and a publishing department. Its museum contains more than 300 folk-art objects. These include life-size replicas of Theyyams and Patayani, folk and tribal musical and percussion instruments, agricultural tools and weapons. Theyyam itself is also closely associated with Kannur: this ritual dance form connects mythology, folklore and spirituality.

Handcrafted bronze works, sculptures and curiosities are a distinctive feature of Heritage Village Kunhimangalam. Visitors can meet bell-metal artisans and watch demonstrations of Panchaloha idol-making. Opportunities to meet artisans and see demonstrations may vary.

Mountain Landscapes and Backwaters

Paithalmala is a hill station at 1,372 metres above sea level and one of the highest peaks in Kannur district. Each trekking route is six kilometres long; one is more challenging than the other. The trekking landscape features rare endemic species, waterfalls and panoramic views. Check local conditions on the routes before setting out.

The Kavvayi Backwaters are formed where the five rivers Kavvayi, Kankol, Vannathichal, Kuppithodu and Kuniyan meet. Boat trips pass through islands, alongside village landscapes and through biodiverse wetlands. These waterways are therefore quite different from the beaches: the focus here is on journeys through island and village landscapes and the wetlands.

Getting There and Culinary Highlights

Regular train services connect Kannur with other major cities in India. Kannur International Airport provides air access to Kannur. Regional cuisine includes Malabar biryani and fresh seafood prepared with traditional Kerala spices.

If you are looking for a hotel for your trip to Kannur, start by choosing what you want to focus on during your stay: beaches and water sports, culture and handicrafts, or trekking and boat trips. These interests offer a practical guide for planning your trip, without suggesting that all activities provide the same travel experience.

Discover more destinations: Payyanur, Pappinisseri, Nayattupara, Muzhappilangad, Periya, Chakkarakkal, Iritty, Taliparamba, Azhikode South

For the overview of the wider region: Kerala.