Kozhikode (Calicut) Travel Guide

Population : 801,200
Distance : 445km from Thiruvananthapuram
224km from Kochi

Kozhikode --A Great Province of Malabar

Overlooking the southwest coast of India lies Kozhikode or Calicut, the erstwhile capital of the illustrious Zamorins. Described as “the great province of Malabar” by the legendary traveller Marco Polo, Kozhikode is situated on the northern part of Kerala. While the district is flanked by Kannur on the north, Malappuram on the south and Wayanad on the east, the frolicking waves of the Arabian Sea lap the western shores of Kerla.

Innumerable versions of how Kozhikode acquired its name abound among the local populace. According to one such version, the place got its name from “Cock Fort” (the land where the cock crows). Another version says that Kozhikode derived its name from Koyil Kotu or Kotta, which means a fortified palace.


¤ Vasco da Gama Macadamized The Way For European Rule

Vasco da Gama throwing anchor at the port of Kappad in 1498 only paved the way for other European powers who were to follow in the later years.
The area came under the supremacy of the Portuguese, the Dutch and finally the British who ruled it till India gained independence (see Calicut in History of Kerala).


¤ CVN Kalari Centre

A well-known centre for the ancient form of Kerala’s martial art, Kalaripayattu.


¤ The Backwater Attractions

The backwaters of Kozhikode hold tremendous tourist potential because of their unspoilt charm and natural splendour. The Korapuzha Jalotsavam (water fiesta), held at Korapuzha has kindled the interest of sports lovers. Boating facilities are available at Elathur, the Canoli Canal and the Kallai River. Kozhikode has made it to the list of tourist destinations because of its unique combination of historical sites, breathtaking locales and a warm and friendly ambience.