Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a historic coastal city located in the Malabar region of Kerala, India. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, scenic beaches, and world-famous Malabar cuisine, Kozhikode is one of Kerala’s most important tourist and commercial destinations.
The city holds a significant place in Indian history as the landing spot of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in 1498, which opened sea trade routes between India and Europe. Kozhikode was once the capital of the powerful Zamorin (Samuthiri) rulers, making it a major center for trade, education, and culture.
Cultural & Historical Significance
Kozhikode is known for its communal harmony and cultural diversity, where temples, mosques, and churches coexist peacefully. The city has made major contributions to Malayalam literature, education, and art. Events like the Kerala Literature Festival, held annually on Kozhikode Beach, highlight its global cultural relevance.
Historic landmarks such as Tali Shiva Temple, Kuttichira Heritage Area, and Beypore Port reflect the city’s glorious past and architectural heritage.
Geography & Climate
Situated along the Arabian Sea, Kozhikode enjoys a tropical climate with lush greenery, rivers, and backwaters.
- Summer: March to May
- Monsoon: June to September
- Winter: October to February (best time to visit)
The pleasant coastal weather makes Kozhikode ideal for tourism throughout most of the year.
Food Capital of Kerala
Kozhikode is widely regarded as the food capital of Kerala, especially famous for Malabar biryani, Kozhikode halwa, seafood dishes, and traditional snacks. SM Street (Mittayi Theruvu) is a major attraction for food lovers.
Tourism & Modern Development
Today, Kozhikode is a growing urban center with modern infrastructure while preserving its traditional charm. The city offers a perfect mix of beaches, heritage sites, hill viewpoints, wildlife sanctuaries, and eco-tourism spots.
With excellent road, rail, and air connectivity, Kozhikode serves as a gateway to North Kerala and nearby destinations like Wayanad.
Why Kozhikode is Special
- Historic gateway of European trade to India
- Strong literary and cultural legacy
- Stunning beaches and natural beauty
- Renowned Malabar cuisine
- Warm hospitality and vibrant local life
BEST TOURIST PLACES IN KOZHIKODE (2026)
1. KOZHIKODE BEACH (CALICUT BEACH)
Kozhikode Beach is a famous beach located in Kozhikode (Calicut) city in Kerala, along the Malabar Coast of the Arabian Sea. It is known for its natural beauty, historical importance, and lively atmosphere.
Historically, Kozhikode was an important trading port where Arab and Chinese traders came for spices. The beach is closely connected to this past and reflects the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
The beach is popular for its beautiful sunsets, long sandy shore, and cool sea breeze. People visit it for evening walks, relaxation, and street food like kallummakkaya (mussels) and banana fritters. The old lighthouse and stone piers add to its charm.
Kozhikode Beach is not mainly used for swimming due to strong waves, but it is an important tourist attraction and a favorite gathering place for locals. It represents the simple, cultural, and peaceful lifestyle of the region.
Best time to visit: Evening hours
2. BEYPORE BEACH & BEYPORE PORT
Beypore Beach, located near Kozhikode (Calicut) in Kerala, is a serene coastal destination known for its golden sands, calm waves, and breathtaking sunsets. This scenic beach is ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful escape away from crowded tourist spots. Beypore Beach is especially popular for evening walks, photography, and enjoying the cool sea breeze along the Malabar Coast. The long shoreline and relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers exploring Kerala’s coastal beauty.
One of the main attractions near Beypore Beach is the historic Beypore Port, one of the oldest ports in Kerala with a rich maritime heritage dating back over a thousand years. Beypore Port played a vital role in ancient spice trade routes and is famously known as the birthplace of the traditional wooden ships called Uru, handcrafted by skilled artisans. These massive wooden vessels are still built here and exported to various parts of the world, making Beypore a unique cultural and industrial landmark.
The iconic Beypore Breakwater, stretching into the Arabian Sea, offers stunning views of crashing waves and fishing boats, making it a favorite spot for visitors and photographers. Watching sunsets from the breakwater is a must-do experience when visiting Beypore. The port area also reflects the cultural blend of Arab, Portuguese, and local influences, adding historical depth to the destination.
Visiting Beypore Beach and Beypore Port in 2026 offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and cultural heritage. With its proximity to Kozhikode city, easy accessibility, and less commercialized environment, Beypore stands out as a hidden coastal gem in Kerala. Whether you are interested in beach relaxation, heritage exploration, or maritime history, Beypore is an excellent addition to your Kerala travel itinerary.
3. KAPPAD BEACH
Kappad Beach, located about 16 km from Kozhikode (Calicut) in Kerala, is one of the most historically significant beaches in India. This pristine coastal stretch is famously known as the place where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama first landed in 1498, marking the beginning of European trade relations with India. Today, Kappad Beach beautifully blends historical importance with natural coastal charm, making it a must-visit destination for history lovers and beach enthusiasts.
The beach is known for its clean shoreline, rocky outcrops, golden sands, and tranquil Arabian Sea views. Unlike many commercial beaches, Kappad Beach maintains a calm and eco-friendly atmosphere, ideal for peaceful walks, sunset watching, and photography. The sound of waves hitting the rocks and the open sea breeze create a relaxing environment perfect for unwinding.
A stone monument at Kappad commemorates Vasco da Gama’s landing, adding educational and cultural value to the visit. The beach is also popular among locals for weekend outings and morning walks. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood from nearby eateries, making the experience both scenic and flavorful.
Visiting Kappad Beach in 2026 is ideal for travelers seeking a destination that offers heritage, natural beauty, and serenity in one place. Its close proximity to Kozhikode city, well-maintained surroundings, and historical legacy make Kappad Beach an essential stop on any Kerala coastal travel itinerary.
4. KADALUNDI BIRD SANCTUARY
Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, located about 25 km south of Kozhikode in Kerala, is a serene nature destination famous for its rich birdlife and scenic estuary landscapes. Situated at the confluence of the Kadalundi River and the Arabian Sea, this sanctuary is one of the best places in North Kerala for birdwatching, nature walks, and eco-tourism. Spread across a cluster of small islands, Kadalundi offers a peaceful escape surrounded by mangroves, sandbanks, and coastal vegetation.
The sanctuary is home to over 100 species of native birds and around 60 species of migratory birds, especially during the winter season. Birds such as terns, sandpipers, herons, egrets, gulls, and brahminy kites can be spotted here, making it a paradise for bird lovers and wildlife photographers. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to visit, when bird activity is at its peak and the estuary scenery is most beautiful.
Apart from birdwatching, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is known for its calm backwater views, fishing villages, and boat ride experiences that allow visitors to explore the islands closely. The tranquil environment and minimal commercialization make it ideal for families, students, and nature enthusiasts seeking a quiet, educational outing.
Visiting Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary in 2026 is perfect for travelers looking to experience Kerala’s biodiversity, coastal wetlands, and eco-friendly tourism. Its proximity to Kozhikode and Beypore, combined with its natural charm and ecological importance, makes Kadalundi a must-visit destination on any Kerala travel itinerary.
Best season: November to March
5. SM STREET (MITTAYI THERUVU)
SM Street, also known as Sweet Meat Street, is one of the most vibrant and historic shopping streets in Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala. This bustling marketplace dates back to the Zamorin era and has long been the commercial heart of the city. SM Street is famous for its traditional sweet shops, spice stores, textile outlets, bookshops, and street food, making it a must-visit destination for shoppers and cultural explorers.
The street gets its popular name from the wide variety of traditional Kozhikode sweets, especially the world-famous Kozhikode Halwa, available in numerous flavors and colors. Along with sweets, visitors can shop for spices, perfumes, handicrafts, clothing, and local products at affordable prices. The pedestrian-friendly layout allows visitors to explore the area comfortably while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
SM Street is also a paradise for food lovers, offering authentic Malabar snacks, biryani, banana chips, and refreshing beverages from long-established eateries. The street reflects the rich cultural heritage of Kozhikode, with its mix of old-world charm and modern shopping experiences.
Visiting SM Street in 2026 offers an unforgettable experience of Kozhikode’s local life, flavors, and traditions. Located close to Mananchira Square and easily accessible from all parts of the city, SM Street remains one of the best places to experience the cultural soul and culinary legacy of North Kerala.
6. TALI SHIVA TEMPLE
Tali Shiva Temple, located in the heart of Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala, is one of the oldest and most sacred Hindu temples in the Malabar region. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple holds immense religious, historical, and architectural significance. Believed to have been established during the reign of the Zamorin kings, Tali Temple was once considered one of the most important spiritual centers of Kozhikode.
The temple is renowned for its traditional Kerala-style architecture, featuring a circular sanctum (sreekovil), intricate wooden carvings, and a peaceful courtyard that reflects classical temple design. The presence of Lord Shiva as the main deity, along with other sub-deities, attracts devotees from across Kerala, especially during important Hindu festivals.
One of the major highlights of Tali Shiva Temple is the grand Revathi Pattathanam, a historic scholarly assembly once conducted under the patronage of the Zamorins, which emphasized Kozhikode’s cultural and intellectual legacy. Festivals like Mahashivaratri and Vishu are celebrated with great devotion, drawing large numbers of worshippers and visitors.
Visiting Tali Shiva Temple in 2026 offers a spiritually enriching experience combined with cultural heritage. Its central location near SM Street and Mananchira Square makes it easily accessible for travelers exploring Kozhikode. The temple stands as a timeless symbol of faith, tradition, and history, making it a must-visit religious landmark in North Kerala.
7. KUTTICHIRA HERITAGE AREA
Kuttichira Heritage Area, located in Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala, is one of the city’s oldest and most culturally rich neighborhoods. This historic area reflects Kozhikode’s deep-rooted Arab–Malabar heritage, shaped by centuries of trade, cultural exchange, and Islamic scholarship. Kuttichira is especially known for its ancient mosques, traditional homes, and serene pond, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s timeless past.
The heart of the area is Kuttichira Pond, surrounded by heritage buildings and narrow streets that retain their old-world charm. Several historic mosques, including the famous Mishkal Mosque, stand as architectural masterpieces built without the use of modern materials like concrete or iron. These structures showcase traditional Kerala architecture blended with Arab influences, making Kuttichira an important cultural landmark.
Kuttichira has long been a center of Islamic learning and religious harmony, with madrasas, libraries, and scholarly traditions that have contributed significantly to Kozhikode’s identity. Walking through this heritage zone feels like stepping back in time, with preserved wooden houses, age-old shops, and a peaceful community atmosphere.
Visiting Kuttichira Heritage Area in 2026 is ideal for travelers interested in history, culture, architecture, and photography. Located close to SM Street and Kozhikode Beach, Kuttichira is easily accessible and offers an authentic cultural experience that highlights the historical soul of Kozhikode and the Malabar Coast.
8. THUSHARAGIRI WATERFALLS
Thusharagiri Waterfalls, located about 50 km from Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala, is one of the most beautiful and adventurous waterfall destinations in North Kerala. Nestled in the lush green folds of the Western Ghats, Thusharagiri is famous for its misty cascades, dense forests, and refreshing natural surroundings. The name Thusharagiri means “snow-capped mountains,” referring to the cool mist created by the falling water.
The waterfalls are formed by the Chaliyar River and consist of multiple streams, including Erattumukku, Mazhavil Chattam, and Thumbithullum Para, each offering unique scenic beauty. Thusharagiri is a popular destination for trekking, nature walks, and adventure tourism, with forest trails leading through rich biodiversity and scenic viewpoints. The area is home to various species of birds, butterflies, and plants, making it ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
The best time to visit Thusharagiri Waterfalls is during and just after the monsoon, when the water flow is at its most spectacular. The cool climate and peaceful atmosphere provide a refreshing escape from city life. Safety measures and guided treks are available for visitors exploring deeper forest routes.
Visiting Thusharagiri Waterfalls in 2026 offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and eco-tourism. Its proximity to Kozhikode and easy accessibility make it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring waterfalls and hill landscapes in Kerala.
9. SAROVARAM BIO PARK
Sarovaram Bio Park, located near Kozhikode (Calicut) city in Kerala, is a unique eco-friendly destination developed as part of an urban green initiative. Situated along the Canoly Canal, this bio-park is designed to promote environmental conservation while offering a peaceful recreational space for visitors. Sarovaram Bio Park is ideal for families, nature lovers, and those looking for a calm escape within the city.
The park features lush greenery, wetlands, mangrove vegetation, bamboo groves, and landscaped walkways, creating a refreshing natural atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy leisure walks, boating, cycling, birdwatching, and children’s play areas, making it a well-rounded destination for all age groups. The presence of water bodies and native plants also attracts various bird species, adding to its ecological value.
Sarovaram Bio Park is known for its scenic views during sunrise and sunset, offering excellent opportunities for photography and relaxation. The eco-conscious design focuses on sustainability, education, and preserving local biodiversity while enhancing urban quality of life.
Visiting Sarovaram Bio Park in 2026 provides a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and eco-tourism in Kozhikode. Its close proximity to the city center, Kozhikode Beach, and major attractions makes it a must-visit spot for travelers seeking a peaceful, green experience in North Kerala.
10. VAYALADA VIEW POINT
Sarovaram Bio Park, located near Kozhikode (Calicut) city in Kerala, is a unique eco-friendly destination developed as part of an urban green initiative. Situated along the Canoly Canal, this bio-park is designed to promote environmental conservation while offering a peaceful recreational space for visitors. Sarovaram Bio Park is ideal for families, nature lovers, and those looking for a calm escape within the city.
The park features lush greenery, wetlands, mangrove vegetation, bamboo groves, and landscaped walkways, creating a refreshing natural atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy leisure walks, boating, cycling, birdwatching, and children’s play areas, making it a well-rounded destination for all age groups. The presence of water bodies and native plants also attracts various bird species, adding to its ecological value.
Sarovaram Bio Park is known for its scenic views during sunrise and sunset, offering excellent opportunities for photography and relaxation. The eco-conscious design focuses on sustainability, education, and preserving local biodiversity while enhancing urban quality of life.
Visiting Sarovaram Bio Park in 2026 provides a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and eco-tourism in Kozhikode. Its close proximity to the city center, Kozhikode Beach, and major attractions makes it a must-visit spot for travelers seeking a peaceful, green experience in North Kerala.
Best Time to Visit Kozhikode
- October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing
- June to September: Monsoon season, best for waterfalls and greenery
Famous Food to Try in Kozhikode
- Malabar Biryani
- Kozhikode Halwa
- Pathiri & Erachi Curry
- Fresh seafood dishes
HOW TO REACH KOZHIKODE
- By Air: Calicut International Airport (Karipur)
- By Train: Kozhikode Railway Station
- By Road: Well connected to major Kerala cities
Final Thoughts
Kozhikode in 2026 is a perfect blend of history, beaches, culture, and food. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer Kerala trip, Kozhikode deserves a spot on your travel list