Kannur
Cultural Bastion: Kannur is a historic coastal city in North Kerala known for its rich folk arts and deeply rooted traditions. It is the heartland of Theyyam, a spectacular ritual dance-drama where performers embody deities through elaborate costumes and intense movements. Maritime History: The city has played a crucial role in the spice trade since ancient times, attracting traders from Arabia, Rome, and Europe. The St. Angelo Fort, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, stands as a majestic witness to the colonial power struggles over the coast. Weaving Tradition: Known as the "Land of Looms," Kannur has a long history of producing high-quality handloom fabrics. The cooperative societies here continue to weave beautiful cotton clothes and home furnishings that are exported to various international markets today. Pristine Coastline: The district boasts some of the most beautiful and longest beaches in the state, including the unique Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach. The coastline is characterized by golden sands, rocky outcrops, and coconut palms, offering a more peaceful alternative to the busy southern beaches.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 DaysPlace Type:
Coastal & CulturalEntry Fees:
Fort Entry: The entry to St. Angelo Fort is free for all visitors, making it one of the most accessible historical sites in the city. There might be a small parking fee for vehicles outside the main gate, which is usually around INR 20.
Museum...Fort Entry: The entry to St. Angelo Fort is free for all visitors, making it one of the most accessible historical sites in the city. There might be a small parking fee for vehicles outside the main gate, which is usually around INR 20.
Museum Fees: Entry to the Arakkal Museum costs approximately INR 20 for adults, with additional charges for using professional cameras. The Kannur Lighthouse has a small entry fee of about INR 10 to climb to the observation deck.Timing:
General Timings: Most attractions like the fort and museums are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The Kannur Lighthouse usually allows visitors between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM, providing the best lighting for the panoramic views of the coast.
Ide...General Timings: Most attractions like the fort and museums are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The Kannur Lighthouse usually allows visitors between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM, providing the best lighting for the panoramic views of the coast.
Ideal Time: Late afternoons after 4:00 PM are the best time to visit the beaches and the fort to enjoy the cooler weather and the sunset. For Theyyam, the performances usually start in the evening and continue through the night or early morning hours.Special Events:
Theyyam Season: From November to May, the district becomes a hub of ritualistic activities with hundreds of Theyyam performances happening in different villages. Each performance is a massive community event featuring traditional music, vibrant colors, and deep spiritual de...Theyyam Season: From November to May, the district becomes a hub of ritualistic activities with hundreds of Theyyam performances happening in different villages. Each performance is a massive community event featuring traditional music, vibrant colors, and deep spiritual devotion.
Kannur Mahotsavam: This cultural festival celebrates the city's heritage with music, dance, and food stalls showcasing local Malabari cuisine. It is a great time for tourists to see all the different art forms of the region in a single, well-organized venue.Best Photo Spots:
Muzhappilangad Beach: Photos of cars driving through the water or parked against the sunset on the sand are iconic to Kannur. The flat surface and the reflection of the sky on the wet sand provide endless opportunities for creative coastal photography. St.Muzhappilangad Beach: Photos of cars driving through the water or parked against the sunset on the sand are iconic to Kannur. The flat surface and the reflection of the sky on the wet sand provide endless opportunities for creative coastal photography. St.
Angelo Fort: The red laterite walls of the fort against the blue sea and green lawns offer a high-contrast and beautiful frame. The arched doorways and the view of the Mappila Bay harbor from the bastions are perfect for architectural and landscape shots.
Theyyam Performers: The elaborate makeup and the towering headgears of the Theyyam artists are a dream for portrait photographers. The intense expressions and the fire-lit environment during night performances create dramatic and powerful images of local culture.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
Ezharakund Waterfalls is a hidden treasure nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats in the Kanjirakolly region of Kannur. The name "Ezharakund" literally translates to "Seven and a half pools," referring to the series of seven natural step-like basins formed by the cascading water. This waterfall is one of the most beautiful and least-explored spots in North Kerala. The water originates from the dense evergreen forests of the Coorg border and flows down through rocky terrain, creating a soothing melody. Each pool is of varying depth, and the crystal-clear water is incredibly refreshing. The surrounding area is a lush green paradise, filled with coffee and pepper plantations, providing a misty and cool climate even during summers. The trek to the falls involves a walk through winding forest paths, offering a raw experience of nature. Unlike the commercialized waterfalls of South Kerala, Ezharakund maintains its rustic charm. The site is managed by the local Vana Samrakshana Samithi (Forest Protection Committee), ensuring the area remains clean and safe. It is a perfect getaway for nature lovers, trekkers, and those looking to escape the coastal humidity. The sheer volume of water during the monsoon is a sight to behold, though the pools are safest for swimming during the post-monsoon months.
Paithalmala is the highest geographic peak in Kannur, standing tall at 1,372 meters above sea level. It is nestled in the Western Ghats near the Kerala - Karnataka border, offering a mesmerizing trek through dense semi-evergreen forests and sprawling grasslands. The hill station is a favorite for adventure seekers and nature lovers who want to escape the humidity of the plains. As you ascend, the temperature drops significantly, and a thick blanket of mist often envelops the trails. The trek starts from Pottenplave village and takes about 45 minutes to an hour to reach the summit. From the top, one can see the lush forests of Coorg on one side and the plains of Kannur on the other. The area is rich in flora and fauna, including wild elephants and various species of butterflies. It is a plastic-free zone maintained by the Forest Department. :
The Arakkal Museum is a significant historical site that was once the Durbar Hall of the Arakkalkettu palace. It is dedicated to the memory and heritage of the Arakkal Ali Rajas, the only Muslim royal family to have ruled in Kerala. The museum was inaugurated in 2005 after a major renovation by the Government of Kerala to preserve the rich maritime and cultural history of the dynasty. Inside, visitors can find a vast collection of artifacts, including royal furniture, weapons, and copper plates that document the family's trade relations. The Arakkal family once controlled the Laccadive Islands (now Lakshadweep) and maintained strong ties with Dutch and British traders. The museum displays a fascinating array of ancient Holy Qurans, vintage telephones, and nautical instruments used for sea voyages. The walls are adorned with portraits of the various rulers, including the female heads of the family known as Arakkal Beevis. The museum serves as a bridge to the past, showcasing how Islamic culture and local Malabar traditions blended seamlessly. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to understand the complex social fabric of Northern Kerala. The surrounding palace complex still remains private property, but the museum area provides enough insight into the royal lifestyle. The serene atmosphere of the museum grounds offers a quiet space for reflection on the bygone era of Malabar's sea-kings.
@@The Divine Abode: Rajarajeshwara Temple is one of the most ancient and powerful Shiva temples in South India, located in the town of Taliparamba. @@Spiritual Significance: It is considered one of the 108 ancient Shiva temples of Kerala and is known for its unique rituals and deep spiritual energy. @@Royal Patronage: The temple has been historically supported by the Mushika and Kolathiri dynasties, earning it the name "King of Kings" temple. @@Unique Tradition: Unlike other temples, women are generally allowed to enter the inner sanctum only after the evening 'Athazha Pooja' is completed.
@@General History: Kizhunna Ezhara Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline that remains one of the most secluded and pristine destinations in Kerala. This beach is actually a combination of two adjacent shores, Kizhunna and Ezhara, separated by small rocky outcrops that jut into the Arabian Sea. Historically, this area was a quiet fishing hamlet, and it has managed to retain its rustic charm away from the commercialization seen in other parts of the state. The beach is famous for its golden sands, shallow waters, and the dramatic red laterite cliffs that frame the shoreline. Unlike the bustling city beaches, here the only sound you hear is the rhythmic crashing of waves and the rustling of coconut palms. The area has recently seen the development of eco-friendly homestays and beach houses that cater to travelers seeking a "loner’s delight." The local community still depends on traditional fishing, and visitors can often see the colorful "Vallams" (boats) lined up along the coast. It is a place where time seems to slow down, making it a favorite for writers, artists, and peace-seekers. The crescent-shaped bays provide a safe environment for wading in the water, and the natural beauty of the place is enhanced by the absence of massive concrete structures.
@@The Coastal Charm: Payyambalam Beach is a pristine stretch of golden sand located in the heart of Kannur city along the Arabian Sea. @@Natural Splendor: The beach is widely known for its quiet and secluded atmosphere, making it a favorite for those seeking peace away from the urban rush. @@Cinematic Backdrop: Its stunning beauty has attracted many filmmakers, including the crew of the famous movie Alaipayuthey. @@Historical Significance: The area is also notable for the memorials of prominent leaders like A.K. Gopalan and K.G. Marar located nearby.
Dharmadam Island, locally known as Pachathuruth (Green Island), is a small 5-acre private island located just 100 meters off the Dharmadam Beach. This uninhabited island is a rare ecological marvel surrounded by the Arabian Sea on one side and three rivers on the others. The island is covered with a thick canopy of coconut palms and dense bushes, making it look like a floating emerald from a distance. Historically, the island was a prominent Buddhist center known as Dharmapattanam. It later became a strategic point for traders like the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. During low tide, the water level recedes enough to allow visitors to walk across the seabed from the mainland to the island—a truly unique experience in Kerala. However, it is a private property, and visitors usually require permission or must respect the restricted areas. The island offers a 360-degree view of the vast ocean and the beautiful Anjarakandy river mouth. It is an ideal spot for those seeking solitude away from the mainland's hustle. The laterite rock formations around the island's edges are home to various marine life during low tides. The silence here is only broken by the sound of waves and the chirping of sea birds. It represents the raw, untouched beauty of the Malabar coast.Show All
St. Angelo Fort, also known as Kannur Fort, is a magnificent laterite structure that stands as a silent witness to the colonial history of India. Built in 1505 by Dom Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese Viceroy of India, the fort is situated on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea. Its strategic location made it a prized possession for various European powers. Over the centuries, the fort changed hands from the Portuguese to the Dutch in 1663, who modernized the structure and added bastions. Later, in 1772, it was sold to the Arakkal royal family, the only Muslim royalty in Kerala. The British eventually captured it in 1790 and used it as one of their primary military stations on the Malabar Coast. Today, it is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The fort offers a panoramic view of Mappila Bay, a natural fishing harbor, and the vast Arabian Sea. Inside the fort, visitors can explore the old barracks, ammunition storehouses, a lighthouse, and a chapel. The well-maintained gardens and the cool sea breeze make it a popular spot for both history buffs and casual strollers. The fort's walls are steeped in stories of battles, imprisonment, and trade, making it an essential stop for anyone wanting to understand the colonial fabric of North Kerala. It remains one of the best-preserved coastal forts in the country, blending European military architecture with the rugged beauty of the Kerala coastline.:Information
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Why Famous:
Theyyam Rituals: Kannur is the only place in the world where you can witness the authentic Theyyam performances in village shrines. This unique blend of dance, music, and religious fervor is a mesmerizing experience that offers a deep insight into the local belief systems. ...Theyyam Rituals: Kannur is the only place in the world where you can witness the authentic Theyyam performances in village shrines. This unique blend of dance, music, and religious fervor is a mesmerizing experience that offers a deep insight into the local belief systems.
Drive-in Beach: The Muzhappilangad Beach is the longest drive-in beach in India and one of the best in Asia. It allows travelers to drive their cars or bikes directly onto the hard-packed sand for over 4 kilometers, offering a one-of-a-kind coastal experience. -
Architecture:
Portuguese Military Style: The St. Angelo Fort is a classic examples of European military architecture in India, featuring massive bastions and laterite stone walls. It has a triangular layout with a moat on one side and the Arabian Sea on the others, providing a strategic...Portuguese Military Style: The St. Angelo Fort is a classic examples of European military architecture in India, featuring massive bastions and laterite stone walls. It has a triangular layout with a moat on one side and the Arabian Sea on the others, providing a strategic defensive position.
Islamic Heritage: The Arakkal Museum, which was once the palace of the only Muslim royal family in Kerala, showcases a blend of local and Islamic styles. The architecture features large wooden windows, spacious courtyards, and a distinctive focus on ventilation and natural cooling.
Dimensions: The St. Angelo Fort walls are several meters thick, designed to withstand naval cannon fire from the sea. The fort complex covers a significant area, including old barracks, a chapel, and a deep well that provided water to the soldiers during long sieges. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The Kannur International Airport (CNN) is located about 25 KMS from the city center and serves both domestic and international flights. It is a modern facility that has made North Kerala much more accessible to travelers from across the world.
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Near Tourist Places:
St. Angelo Fort (2 KMS), Muzhappilangad Beach (12 KMS), Payyambalam Beach (3 KMS), Arakkal Museum (2 KMS), Dharmadam Island (15 KMS), Parassinikadavu (18 KMS), Paithalmala (55 KMS), Palakkayam Thattu (50 KMS), Aralam Sanctuary (60 KMS), Madayipara (25 KMS)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: The beaches in Kannur can have strong undercurrents, so always check with locals or lifeguards before swimming. When attending Theyyam, remember that these are sacred rituals; maintain a respectful distance from the performers and do not disrupt the ceremo...
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