Things to Do in Calicut

Situated on the Malabar coast and endowed with natural beauty, Kozhikode beach should be a must in the itinerary of your visit to the city. This beach is renowned for the sunsets that tourists throng here to enjoy. Though the water is muddy and not suitable for swimming, still the stunning view of the Arabian Sea that the lighthouse offers more than compensates for the shortcoming.

Payannakal, Putiyappa, Elathur, Beypore, all these beaches are part of the long stretch of Kozhikode beach. This beach lies on the western side of the city and is easily accessible through the four roads in the city. 

Location: Malabar Coast

Price: There is no fee to be paid to visit the beach.

Timing: The beach is open on all days to the tourists from 8 A.M. to 8 P.M. in the early hours visitors can see the real-life dolphin shows. 

Best Time to Visit: September to May

Previously known as Mananchira Maidan, this place held many football matches. Mananchira scores high as one of the places to visit in Kozhikode. This place provides tranquility to the visitors which is much sought after as one wants to escape the chaotic city life. It is a beautiful park covered with lawns, traditional buildings, a musical fountain, and an open-air theatre. This park is built around a man-made lake known as Mananchira lake.

One must not forget to visit Mananchira or Mana Vikraman Tank which was the primary water source for the royal family and is maintained till date in its pristine beauty. Mananchira is the best place for an evening stroll or to enjoy a picnic with families and friends. This park is popular among tourists and locals because of its natural sculptures and natural beauty.

Location: In the heart of the Kozhikode city

Price: There is no entry fee for this place

Timing: Monday to Sunday 3:30 P.M. to 8 P.M.

Best Time to Visit: October to April

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is the perfect tourist spot for bird watchers and nature lovers. Just 19 km away from Kozhikode, this bird sanctuary is home to nearly 100 species of native birds and over 60 species of migratory birds. This is situated among the clusters of small islands on river Kadalundi. This is the habitat of gulls, terns, herons, and other alien birds which are a major attraction of this sanctuary.

Apart from the birds, the sanctuary is famous for its scenic beauty and holds a panoramic view of the river and the Arabian Sea. This sanctuary is also known for the various kinds of fishes, crabs, and mussels. Early morning hours are the best time to visit to watch the birds.

Location- Just 18 km from Kozhikode, the bird sanctuary is located at Malappuram, near Beypore.

Price: Entry fee Rs.25 per person

Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: December to April

The Valayanad Devi Temple was built in the 14th century by the Zamorins and this temple is one of the famous holy places to visit in Kozhikode. The temple is a marvel of 14th -century Dravidian architecture and it is different from all other temples of the nearby area. According to folklore, the Zamorins defeated the mighty King Valluva Kolathiri and they believed it was due to the blessings of their family deity Valayanad Vagabathi.

They prayed and pleased the Goddess to come over and reside in their palace. The Goddess gave her consent and the temple was built in her honour. The Devi is worshipped and revered by all devotees. Idols of Shiva, Lord Ayyappa, and Vighneswara are also worshipped in this temple. Kuruthy Tarpanam is one of the important festivals conducted here.

Location: Valayanad Temple Rd, Govindapuram, Kozhikode, Kerala 673007

Price: No Entry fee 

Timing: 4 A:M: to 9 P:M:

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Thalikkunu Shiva Temple is one of the oldest Shiva Temples of South India. It is a revered pilgrimage for the devout Hindus. This Shiva temple is one of the tourist places to visit in Kozhikode. After the invaders’ destruction, the temple was renovated and today it is a model of architectural marvel and it brings joy to the historians and the pilgrims alike. 

Enjoy the beautiful carvings of scenes from the Puranas that are a part of the two-storey sanctum. The temple is notable for the huge pond and expansive walls that surround it. You will enjoy the calm, serene atmosphere here and forget the daily tribulations and a visit here will relax and bring peace to your mind. 

Location: Thalikku Rd, Near Kalpaka Theater, Mankave, Kozhikode, Kerala 673007

Price: No Entry fee

Timing: 5 A:M: to 12 noon; 4P:M: to 9 P:M:

Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year

Situated near the mouth of Chaliyar river, Beypore beach is a famous tourist destination. Your visit to Kozhikode remains incomplete without a day spent at Beypore beach. There is never a dearth of activities once you are at the beach. Clearly, one of the favourite tourist places to visit in Kozhikode, this beach takes into a different world with its numerous fun-filled activities to keep you engaged as it offers abundant water activities like surfing, sunbathing, water skiing and swimming.

You can take in the vast expanse of rich golden sand, coconut trees that dot the coastline or the stone bridge known as Pulimoodu, which builds a pathway into the sea. There is never a dull moment at the beach and you can pamper yourself in a refreshing Ayurveda massage. 

Location: Near the Chaliyar River

Price: No Entry Fee

Timing: 24 hrs

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Take a break from daily life and pay a visit to the Srikanteshwara Temple in Kozhikode. On your visit to Kerala, you must add this temple to your list of places to see in Kozhikode.   More than a hundred years old, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a must-visit pilgrimage of Hindus. Apart from Lord Shiva, you can worship Lord Ganapathy, the serpent Gods, and Lord Krishna.

There is a much widely circulated folklore regarding the temple and its construction by the Maharaja of Travancore. Moreover, the Shivaratri festival is celebrated in much gaiety and fervor here. Apart from that, the moment you arrive in the temple, you will be engulfed by its tranquil atmosphere and both devotees and visitors are welcome inside it. Further, take time to explore the beautiful architecture and some quiet moments near the pond. 

Location: Ward No 5, EMS Stadium Building, SK Temple Rd, Near, Thazhekode, Kozhikode, Kerala 673001 

Price: No Entry Fee

Timing: 5:00A:M: to 12:15 P:M: and from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Best Time to Visit: December to April

Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Thusharagiri Fall when you pay a visit to Kozhikode.  Two streams originating from the Western Ghats meet at this point to create the Chalipuzzha River. The river further trifurcates to create three waterfalls and the free-falling water creates a mist, thus giving the name “Thusharagiri”.

This place has a lovely view all around and you get plenty of activities to indulge in. You may go for trekking, or enjoy rock-climbing. You can also take a break to visit the wildlife sanctuaries or sit on the banks of the river to enjoy the waterfalls. The lush green forest and cool water of the streams all around add to your enjoyment. A word of caution though, people with a faint heart should avoid the place because it is nature at its wildest best.  This is a place to awaken the nature lover and wildlife enthusiast in you. 

Location: Kodenchery Village, Kozhikode

Price: Rs.30 per person

Timing: 8A:M:  to 5P:M:

Best Time to Visit: September to December

Kakkayam Dam is a famous picnic spot around Kozhikode because of its scenic beauty and plenty of choices for outdoor activities. Though the dam is small in size, it more than compensates with the small waterfalls around it. Take a peek at the varieties of animals and birds that inhabit the place. Or take a boat ride along the dam and see the small waterfalls and dense forests that surround the dam. Move around and soak in the scenic beauty of the hills around the dam.

There is a hanging bridge on the waterfall which is another tourist attraction. Spare a day from your tour itinerary and visit this beautiful spot with your loved ones. Pamper the adventurer in you by going on a trek around the dam. This will always be a memorable visit.

Location: Located at Koorachundu in Kozhikode

Price: Rs.20 per person

Timing: 8:A:M: to 4P:M:

Best Time to Visit: August to November

Kakkadampoyil is a sleepy village in Koodaranhi panchayat in Kozhikode. This village has sprung up as an idyllic tourist spot because of the scenic beauty and the famous waterfall of the same name. The waterfall that lies on the Kuruvan River has been drawing visitors with the abundance of flora and fauna, who love a break from city life.

The misty mountains and the hills surrounding it has given this place another name “Mini Gavi”, by drawing a parallel with the Gavi forests. One of the top places to visit in Kozhikode, the waterfall and Pazhassi caves are the main tourist attractions here. The “Mini Gavi” forest is inhabited with elephants, tigers, birds, and butterflies and is the chief attraction for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. This is the perfect spot for trekking. 

Location: Kozhippara Rd, Kakkadampoyil, Kerala 676123

Price: Rs.20 per person

Timing: 8:30 A:M: to 5 P:M:

Best Time to Visit: December to May

Visit Mother of God Cathedral, Kozhikode Diocese to experience the intricate designs carved on the doors and windows. Apart from its religious significance, the church is a perfect example of Italian architecture and Indian craftsmanship.  Built in 1513 by the Portuguese, this church brought in a new era of Catholic congregation. In 1724, the church was renovated where stones and mortar were used to bring durability.

Spare some time to take a tour of the church where you get to see the stunningly beautiful 200 years old portrait of St. Mary and take in the beauty of this Gothic-style church. Moreover, visit the adjoining cemetery to see the tombstone of Pedro de Covilhany, the first Catholic missionary of Kozhikode. 

Location: Convent Road, Near District Court Kozhikode, Mananchira, Kozhikode, Kerala 673032

Price: No Entry Fee

Timing: 7 A:M: to 5 P:M:

Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year

Sarovaram Bio Park is an eco-friendly park created and preserved to house the wetlands and mangroves in Kozhikode city. It is among the 27 wetlands identified by the Central government for conservation. The tourists here can experience the bounty of natural habitats. It is rich in biodiversity and is the home to nearly 35 different species of birds.

The park is adjacent to the Canoly canal which connects Korapuzha and Kayalli rivers. Apart from the flora and fauna, the Park also provides boating facility to the enthusiasts, has a children’s park, and has an open-air theatre as well.

Location: Mini Bypass Rd, Kottooli, Kozhikode, Kerala 673017

Price: Entry fee Rs.30

Timing: All days, 9:00 AM to 8:00 pm (duration: 1 hr.)

Best Time to Visit: October to March

The botanical garden is spread over 40 acres of land, 15 acres of which is marshy land. The garden is the centre of scientific tourism in the region. There are 6 greenhouses set up to preserve the primitive plants, medicinal plants, and aquatic plants. Tourists here can look forward to enjoying the beauty of the aquatic plant conservatory where endangered species are arranged.

This place holds a special attraction to the students of Botany because of the systematic garden based on taxonomic classification and they visit this garden to see the wide collection of the herbarium. Various educational, research-oriented seminars and workshops are conducted here for the students. Tourists can take a leisurely walk around the medicinal garden, star forest, and butterfly garden to enjoy an afternoon out. 

Location: PB. No. 1, GA College Post, Pokkunnu Pandirakavu road, near Guruvayurappan College, Pokkunnu, Kozhikode, Kerala 673014

Price: Free, Chargeable if events are held

Timing: 10 A:M: to 5P:M: (closed on public holidays)

Best Time to Visit: June to October

The Regional Science Centre and Planetarium is a place to visit and know more about the mysteries of our galaxy, the planets, and the universe. The planetarium has 3D shows to explore the galaxy and has a seating capacity for 250 people. Apart from that, it offers puzzles, games, and displays which hold the interest of the old and the young alike.

Mirror magic and play area are some other attractions for the children. Once inside the centre, do not forget to visit the entomology section, known as the Giants of Nature. The huge aquarium is another major attraction here. 

Location: Jaffer Khan Colony Rd, Near New Bus Stand, Kozhikode, Kerala 673006

Price: Rs.10 per person

Timing: Open on all days 10 AM to 6 PM

Best Time to Visit: December to March

One of the famous tourists places to visit in Kozhikode is the Art Gallery and Krishna Menon Museum. The museum was established in 1975. It is named after the former defence minister of India, Shri V.K. Krishna Menon which contains the belongings of Shri Menon, and is a tribute to the great leader of Kerala.

The Art section has mural paintings and stone sculptures. Tourists, who have a taste for fine arts and paintings, make a point to visit this museum to see the beautiful paintings of Raja Ravi Varma and his uncle Raja Raja Varma. 

Location: Kendriya Vidyalaya Rd, Near Kendriya Vidyalaya, East Hill, Kozhikode, Kerala 673005

Price: Rs. 10 per person, extra charges for camera

Timing: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Closed on Mondays

On Wednesdays 10:00 AM to 4:50 PM

Best Time to Visit: March to May

Located on the West Hill, Varakkal Devi Temple is a pilgrimage for the devout. The temple was also the centre of art and culture many centuries ago. Surrounded by a peaceful, calm atmosphere, this temple is a favourite pilgrim spot for many tourists.  Devi Durga is the temple’s deity and it is believed by many that it is the last temple built by Lord Parasurama.

 If you are planning a religious vacation in Kerala, this is one of the places to visit in Kozhikode. Apart from Devi Durga; Ganesha, Dakshinamoorthy, and Lord Ayyappa are also worshipped here. A visit in September can bring you to enjoy the famous Navratri, which is celebrated with much gusto here. Vavu Bali is another festival where thousands of pilgrims gather to pay respect to the departed souls.  

Location: Varakkal Temple Rd, West Hill, Kozhikode, Kerala 673005

Price: No entry fee

Timing: 5 A:M: to 12 Noon, 5:30 P:M: to 10 P:M:

Best Time to Visit: October to Mar

Formerly known as the East Hill Bungalow, the museum was renamed in 1970. It is named after the great Pazhassiraja Kerala Varma of the Kottayam Royal Family who led the famous “Pazhassi Revolt” against the British imperialism. In the museum, you get to see archaeological remains like antique bronze, ancient coins, and umbrella stones.

The Pazhassiraja Museum and Art gallery is a connoisseur’s delight. It houses some of the best paintings of acclaimed painter Raja Ravi Varma and his uncle Raja Raja Varma. It also houses burial urns and tombstones of warlords of a bygone era. Students of history will find it as a treasure trove of the Princely state of Kerala as it displays costumes and weapons of ancient Kerala.

Location: Located on the East Hill, near Kendriya Vidyalaya

Price: Entry Fee is Rs.20 per person

Timing: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (break: 1:00 PM to 2:00 pm)
Open on all days except Monday and public holidays

Best Time to Visit: December to April

One of the most serene and picturesque places in Kozhikode is Kalipoika. Surrounded by coconut trees and lush green pastures, this is the most popular boating destination for any visitor and for a nature lover, this is a tourist’s paradise. Different types of boats are made available for the tourist who would like to take a lap around in the crystal clear water and enjoy the scenery all around.

Additionally, there are boatmen on hire or you can row or paddle on your own if you wish to. It is the best place to enjoy a relaxing holiday with family and If you are visiting Kozhikode, never give this place a miss. It forms a part of Sarovaram Bio Park, which is maintained to preserve the wetlands and promote eco-tourism. Here, you can spend a few hours in the lap of nature and feel rejuvenated.

Location: Arayidathupalam, Kozhikode, Kerala

Price: No Entry Fee

Timing: 8 A:M: to 7 P:M:

Best Time to Visit: December to May

Kozhikode scores high in natural beauty and many tourists visit the state for its mountain ranges, forests, and waterfalls. Vellarimala is one such spot famous for its natural beauty. If you love to spend some time in the lap of nature, Vellarimala is the place for you. Lying at an altitude of 2200 m, this place is a popular hill resort for the visitors and brings out the nature lover or wildlife photographer in you.

Enjoy a day out with the crystal clear water of the Chali River or go for a trekking in this eco protected zone. You can also watch the huge range of flora and fauna and enjoy a trip along the banks of the river. This mountain range offers a breathtaking view of the Mysore plateau as well. 

Location: Thiruvambadi panchayat, Kozhikode district

Price: No Entry Fee

Timing: 8 A:M: to 4P:M:

Best Time to Visit: December to April

Famous for being the oldest Shiva temple in Kozhikode, Tali Temple is a tourist’s delight. With intricately designed artistic stone sculptures and wooden carvings, the temple is also surrounded by a huge expanse of a pond. The temple conducts five different religious functions and devotees throng the place to take a holy dip in the pond during that time.

You can sit on the steps during evening prayers and take in the beauty of this majestic pond. All the devotees coming to the temple take a tour of it to complete their visit. As a devotee, make it a point to visit the pond as it adds to the aura of the temple and is a scenic place. Moreover, the vastness of it is awe-inspiring and a visit here remains etched in your memory.

Location: Mankave, Kozhikode

Price: No Entry Fee

Timing: 5 A:M: to 12 noon; 4P:M: to 9 P:M:

Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year