Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a vibrant city on the Malabar Coast of Kerala, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Once a major trading hub for spices, it was the landing place of Vasco da Gama in 1498, marking the beginning of European influence in India. Today, Kozhikode is known for its stunning beaches, bustling markets, and delicious Malabar cuisine, including the famous Kozhikode biryani. Visitors can explore historical landmarks like Mananchira Square, Kappad Beach, and Beypore, a historic shipbuilding center. With a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, Kozhikode offers a unique travel experience for history buffs, food lovers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
1. Tali Maha Shiva Kshetram
Tali Maha Shiva Kshetram is a historic temple in Kozhikode, built by the Zamorins in the 14th century. Known for its Kerala-style architecture and intricate wood carvings, it is a major spiritual and cultural site. The temple is famous for the annual Revathi Pattathanam, a Vedic learning festival.
Location : Tali Maha Shiva Kshetram is located in the heart of Kozhikode, Kerala, near Mananchira Square.
Timing : The Tali Maha Shiva Kshetram is open daily at the following times:
🕰 Morning: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM
🕰 Evening: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit Tali Maha Shiva Kshetram.
2. Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum
Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum is a historical museum in Kozhikode, Kerala, showcasing artifacts from the megalithic age to the British colonial period. Named after Pazhassi Raja, a freedom fighter known as the “Lion of Kerala,” the museum houses ancient coins, sculptures, murals, and antique bronze items.
Location : Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum is located at East Hill, Kozhikode, Kerala, about 5 km from Kozhikode city center.
Timing : Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum Timings:
🕰 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
📅 Closed on Mondays and public holidays
Entry Fee : Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum Entry Fee
💰 ₹20 for Adults
💰 ₹10 for Children
💰 ₹50 for Foreign Tourists
3. Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary
Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is a scenic wildlife haven in Kozhikode, Kerala, spread across a cluster of islands at the Kadalundi River estuary. It is home to over 100 species of native birds and 60+ species of migratory birds, including terns, gulls, sandpipers, and herons. The sanctuary also boasts rich mangrove forests and diverse marine life, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Location : Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is located in Kadalundi, Kozhikode, Kerala, about 19 km from Kozhikode city center and 7 km from Beypore.
Timing : 🕰 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open every day)
Entry Fee : Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary Entry Fee:
💰 ₹25 for Adults
💰 ₹10 for Children
4. Regional Science Centre and Planetarium
The Regional Science Centre and Planetarium in Kozhikode is a must-visit for science enthusiasts. It features interactive science exhibits, a 3D theater, and a planetarium with a 250-seat capacity, offering shows about space and astronomy. The center is ideal for students, families, and anyone curious about science and the universe.
Location : Regional Science Centre & Planetarium is located at Jafferkhan Colony Road, Kozhikode, Kerala.
Timing : Regional Science Centre & Planetarium Timings:
🕰 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM
📅 Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee : Regional Science Centre & Planetarium Entry Fee:
💰 Science Centre: ₹25 (Adults), ₹15 (Children)
💰 Planetarium Show: ₹60 (Adults), ₹40 (Children)
5. Sarovaram Bio Park
Sarovaram Bio Park is a beautiful eco-friendly park in Kozhikode, Kerala, featuring lush greenery, a boating lake, a children’s park, and a mangrove trail. It is a perfect place for relaxation, nature walks, and birdwatching. The park also has an open-air amphitheater and butterfly garden, making it an ideal spot for families and nature lovers.
Location : Sarovaram BioPark is located on Mini Bypass Road, Kozhikode, Kerala, about 4 km from Kozhikode city center.
Timing : Sarovaram BioPark Timings : 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open every day)
Entry Fee : 💰 Sarovaram BioPark Entry Fee:
- ₹30 for Adults
- ₹20 for Children
- ₹50 per person for Boating 🚣♂️
6. Mishkal Mosque
Mishkal Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Kerala, is a 14th-century architectural marvel located in Kuttichira, Kozhikode. Built by the Arab merchant Nakhuda Mishkal, it is unique for its four-story wooden structure, reflecting a blend of Kerala and Persian architectural styles. Unlike typical mosques, it has no minarets but features beautiful wooden carvings and prayer halls.
Location : Mishkal Mosque is located in Kuttichira, Kozhikode, Kerala, about 2 km from Kozhikode city center.
Timing : 🕰 Mishkal Mosque Timings:
6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open daily)
Entry Fee : free
7. Kozhikode Beach
Kozhikode Beach is one of the most popular attractions in Kozhikode, Kerala, known for its stunning sunsets, old piers, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy street food, take peaceful walks along the shore, and spot dolphins in the early morning. The beach is also home to landmarks like the Lighthouse and Lion’s Park, making it a great place for families and tourists.
Location : Kozhikode Beach is located near Kozhikode city center, Kerala, about 1.5 km from Kozhikode Railway Station and easily accessible by road. 🚗🌊
Timing : 🕰 Kozhikode Beach Timings:
Open 24 Hours (Best time to visit: Early morning & evening for sunset) 🌅🌊
Entry Fee : kozhikode Beach is open to all visitors free of charge. 🌊✨
Famous Food In Kozhikode
1. Kozhikode Biryani
Kozhikode Biryani is one of the most famous dishes from Malabar cuisine, known for its aromatic Jeerakasala rice, tender meat (chicken, mutton, or fish), and a unique blend of spices. Unlike other biryanis, it is mildly spiced, yet rich in flavor, cooked using the Dum method for a perfect taste.
Ingredients : meat, Jeerakasala rice, yogurt and spices
2. Chatti Pathiri
Chatti Pathiri is a traditional Malabar dish, similar to lasagna but made with thin layers of pathiri (flatbread) and a flavorful filling. It can be made in both sweet and savory versions, with the savory one using spiced meat and eggs, while the sweet version is flavored with coconut, nuts, and sugar.
Ingredients : Maida, chicken, sugar and spices
3. Banana Chips
Banana Chips (Nendran Chips) are a popular snack from Kerala, especially in Kozhikode, made from raw Nendran bananas and deep-fried in coconut oil for a rich flavor and crisp texture. These golden, crunchy chips are a must-try and are often enjoyed as a tea-time snack.
Ingredients : Raw Nendran Bananas, Coconut Oil and spices
4. Ari Kadukka
Ari Kadukka, also known as Stuffed Mussels, is a unique Malabar delicacy from Kozhikode. Fresh mussels (Kadukka) are stuffed with a flavorful rice-based filling, steamed, and then deep-fried, making them crispy on the outside and soft inside. This dish is a must-try seafood specialty of Kerala’s coastal cuisine!
Ingredients : Parboiled Rice, Fresh Mussels and spices
5. Unnakaya
Unnakaya is a delicious Malabar snack made from ripe Nendran bananas, stuffed with a sweet filling of coconut, sugar, and nuts, and deep-fried to golden perfection. This traditional dish is a must-try, especially during Ramadan and special occasions in Kerala.
Ingredients : Ripe Nendran Bananas, Grated Coconut and jaggery
