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.
Major Circuits
Delhi >> Kozhikode
>> Kochi >>
Kottayam >> Munnar >>
Alappuzha >>
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Delhi >> Munnar
>> Kozhikode >>
Kerala Bird Sanctuaries >>
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary >>
Kerala Backwater
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