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Kozhikode, or Calicut, is a vibrant city on the Malabar Coast of Kerala, India. Large in historical importance, cultural heritage, and serene beaches, Kozhikode offers just the right mix of historical charm, gastronomic delights, and natural beauty that makes the city a must-visit place on one’s tour of Kerala. With a wide range of things to do in Kozhikode, be it a history fanatic, food-lover, or nature enthusiast—Kozhikode will have something to give back to the explorer in return for his visit.
10 Things To Do In Kozhikode
To make your trip more adventurous and memorable here are some of the most exciting things to do in Kozhikode.
1. Visit Kozhikode Beach
Photo: Allan jimmy / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most attractive spots on the Malabar Coast of Kerala is the Kozhikode beach. It lies gracefully on the side of the Arabian Sea, offering incredible sunset views, and the historic lighthouse stands to guard the city’s eventful maritime past. Situated strategically with a rich cultural heritage, it is almost the doorway to the Malabar region of Kerala, contributing much to the state’s historical and economic landscape.
Location: Kozhikode Beach Road, Kozhikode, Kerala
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
How To Reach: Easily accessible by a short drive or auto-rickshaw ride from Kozhikode city centre.
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2. Explore Kappad Beach
Photo: Dijaraj Nair / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring Kappad Beach, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, is one of the things to do in Kozhikode. With great historical significance, it is 16 km from the Kozhikode city centre on the beautiful Malabar Coast. It is famous for its golden sand, gentle waves, and peaceful atmosphere with swaying coconut palms. This beach is internationally renowned as the landing site of the great Portuguese sailor Vasco da Gama, who arrived on May 20, 1498, after discovering a new sea route to India. It was the first direct maritime route between Europe and India.
Location: Kappad, Kozhikode, Kerala
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
How To Reach: Reachable via a 30-minute drive from Kozhikode city centre along the Kozhikode-Kannur highway (NH 66).
3. Birdwatching At Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Dhruvaraj S / Wikimedia Commons
Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is located amidst the serene backwaters of Kadalundi, near Kozhikode (Calicut), India. It is spread over a group of islands in the estuary of the Kadalundi River and is famous for its rich variety of birds and natural beauty. Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is a haven for migratory birds across the globe. There exist more than 100 species of native birds like terns, gulls, herons, and cormorants, with some migrant birds like sandpipers, whimbrels, and brahminy kites in this bird sanctuary.
Location: Kadalundi, Kozhikode District, Kerala
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50
How To Reach: About 19 km from Kozhikode, it can be reached by car or taxi via the Kozhikode-Feroke route.
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4. Explore The Historic Town Of Beypore
Photo: NISHAD.K.SALEEM / Wikimedia Commons
Beypore is an ancient port town situated south of Kozhikode. It is located at the mouth of the Chaliyar River and is famous for its traditional shipbuilding industry, pristine beaches, and local culture. It has been a centre of hectic trade and commerce since ancient times and has been famous for its shipbuilding for many centuries. Even today, skilled artisans build traditional Uru (wooden dhows) or other vessels using techniques handed down through the ages.
Location: Beypore, Kozhikode District, Kerala
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
How To Reach: A 10 km drive from Kozhikode city centre via the Kozhikode-Beypore Road.
5. Hike To Thusharagiri Waterfalls
Photo: Shijan Kaakkara / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most beautiful natural attractions of the Western Ghats, situated near Kozhikode, is the Thusharagiri Waterfalls. This place is famous for its cascading waters, green surroundings, and calm atmosphere. About 50 kilometres from the city, Kozhikode is embedded with picturesque landscapes from the Western Ghats. The name “Thusharagiri” literally means “snow-capped mountains,” thus referring to the frothy white waters cascading down rocky cliffs amidst green surroundings. This waterfall is a bifurcation of the Chalippuzha River, falling from three different locations: Erattumukku, Mazhavil Chattam, and Thumbithullum Para, an exciting view to behold.
Location: Thusharagiri, Kozhikode District, Kerala
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20
How To Reach: Approximately 50 km from Kozhikode, accessible by car or taxi via the Kozhikode-Kalpetta route (NH 766).
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6. Visit Sargaalaya
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Visiting the famous Sargaalaya is one of the best things to do in Kozhikode. About 22 kilometres from the heart of Kozhikode city, it is situated amidst serene natural surroundings along the banks of the scenic Moorad River. Sargaalaya is where one can see the firsthand craftsmanship of skilled artisans at work, producing a whole array of traditional handicrafts and artworks. It is an opportunity to closely see the artisans at work, understand their techniques, and even join workshops to help visitors create their crafts.
Location: Iringal, Kozhikode District, Kerala
Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: Free
How To Reach: Located in Iringal, about 35 km from Kozhikode, it can be reached via the NH 66 highway.
7. Experience The Spiritual Aura Of Tali Temple
Photo: RajeshUnuppally / Wikimedia Commons
Being in the heart of Kozhikode city, Tali Temple is easily accessible to all devotees and visitors. The temple dates back to the 14th century and is said to have been built by Swami Thirumulpad, the Zamorin king’s priest. Being the oldest temple of Kerala with great historical significance it is one of the finest examples of Kerala temple architecture, characterised by exuberant wood carvings and traditional gabled roofs known as nalukettu, with intricate sculptures of various Hindu deities and mythological scenes.
Location: Chalappuram, Kozhikode, Kerala
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
How To Reach: It is located in the heart of Kozhikode and is easily accessible by local transport.\
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8. Visit Mishkal Mosque
Photo: Navaneeth T M / Wikimedia Commons
Mishkal Mosque, also called the Mishkal Palli or Mishkal Masjid is one of the oldest mosques in the region, erected by an Arab merchant named Nakhooda Mishkal in the 14th century. It indicates the cultural exchange and trade relations that prospered between the Arab traders and local elements of society in Kerala. The Mishkal Mosque follows both traditional Kerala and Arab architectural styles. Intricate wood carvings, ornate wooden ceilings, and elegant arches are distinguishing features of this mosque.
Location: Kuttichira, Kozhikode, Kerala
Timings: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
How To Reach: Situated in Kuttichira, within Kozhikode city, reachable by local transport or a short drive.
9. Hike To Kozhippara Falls
Photo: Dvellakat / Wikimedia Commons
Kozhippara Falls is a waterfall amidst rocky terrain and dense forests that cascade from a height, thus creating a peaceful and picturesque environment. Its primary attraction is the answer to what to do in Kozhikode which involves cascading water that flows down in tiers, surrounded by verdant foliage and rocky cliffs. On its meandering way down, the falls flourish with natural pools and small streams, which invite one to rest, take a dip, or just sit back and enjoy the mountainous silence with the sound of water.
Location: Kakkadampoyil, Kozhikode District, Kerala
Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10
How To Reach: About 70 km from Kozhikode, accessible by car or taxi via the Kozhikode-Mukkam road.
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10. Explore Kozhikode Backwaters
Photo: Augustus Binu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Spread along the Malabar Coast, the Kozhikode backwaters are known to have scenic stretches of calm lagoons, estuaries, and interconnected canals. The fringes include coconut palms, lush greenery, and traditional fishing villages, all combining to form one enchanting picture representing God’s Country. One of the best ways to discover Kozhikode Backwaters is by taking a houseboat cruise or a traditional canoe ride. Most houseboats are fitted with all modern amenities, like bedrooms, bathrooms, dining areas, etc., guaranteeing a leisurely cruise through the backwaters, where one may look out and experience local life, fishing, and dynamic birdlife.
Location: Kozhikode District, Kerala
How To Reach: Accessible by a short drive from Kozhikode city, mainly via the Elathur region.
Kozhikode, the ancient city along the placid Malabar Coast of Kerala, offers wide experiences. It provides cultural immersion and vivid natural beauty to richly experienced travellers. There are numerous things to do in Kozhikode, from exploring historical landmarks and scenic backwaters to savouring its varied cuisine. Plan a trip with TripXL and head for an unforgettable journey to Kozhikode, Kerala.
Cover Photo: Davidjose365 / Wikimedia Commons
