Are you looking for a place to immerse yourself in rich history, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences? Look no further than Kannur, a hidden gem on the southwestern coast of India.
As one of the top tourist places in the region, Kannur offers a wealth of top sights that will leave you in awe. Explore the 16th century St. Angelo’s Fort, a stunning testament to India’s colonial past, or wander the charming streets of the historic Kannur Town, filled with vibrant markets and traditional architecture.
For nature lovers, Kannur is a paradise, with lush greenery and pristine beaches like Payyambalam Beach, Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, and Thottada Beach. And for those looking to connect with the spiritual, the Parassinikadavu Temple and Mridanga Saileswari Temple offer peaceful retreats to reconnect with your inner self.
No matter your interests, Kannur has something for everyone. Come experience the magic of this beautiful destination and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Book your trip to Kannur today!
About Kannur
Kannur is a coastal city located in the Indian state of Kerala, on the southwestern coast of India. It is also known by its anglicized name, Cannanore. The city is situated on the banks of the Arabian Sea and is bordered by the Western Ghats to the east. Kannur is renowned for its rich history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty.
Kannur has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the 10th century AD. It was an important trading center during the medieval period, with trade routes connecting it to various parts of the world. The city was ruled by several dynasties over the centuries, including the Chera, Kolathiri, and the Vijayanagara empires.
In the 16th century, Kannur was occupied by the Portuguese, who built the famous St. Angelo’s Fort, which still stands today as a major tourist attraction. The city was later taken over by the Dutch, and then the British, before finally becoming part of independent India in 1947.
Kannur has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities living together in harmony. The city is famous for its traditional art forms, including Theyyam, a vibrant ritualistic dance form, and the Yakshagana, a traditional theater art.
Kannur is also renowned for its natural beauty, with pristine beaches, lush greenery, and stunning backwaters. The city is an ideal destination for those looking to experience the cultural and natural wonders of southern India.
Architecture of Kannur
Kannur has a rich architectural heritage that reflects its long and diverse history. The city is home to a variety of architectural styles, ranging from traditional Kerala-style buildings to colonial-era structures.
One of the most prominent architectural landmarks in Kannur is the St. Angelo’s Fort, a 16th-century Portuguese fort that features a mix of European and Indian architectural styles. The fort has thick walls, underground chambers, and a moat that surrounds it, making it a remarkable example of medieval fortification.
Kannur also has many ancient temples and mosques that showcase traditional Kerala-style architecture. The Sri Rajarajeswara Temple, for example, features a distinctive gabled roof and elaborate carvings on the walls and pillars. The Odathil Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Kannur, has a unique blend of Indian and Islamic architectural styles.
During the colonial period, Kannur was occupied by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, each leaving their mark on the city’s architecture. The Thalassery Fort, built by the British in the early 19th century, features a mix of European and Indian architectural styles, with sturdy walls and an imposing gate. The colonial bungalows and buildings in the city’s old town are also noteworthy for their distinctive style.
Overall, Kannur’s architecture is a fascinating blend of different styles and influences, reflecting the city’s rich and diverse history. Visitors to Kannur can marvel at the city’s unique architectural landmarks and gain insight into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
List of Places to Visit in Kannur
- St. Angelo’s Fort – A 16th-century fort built by the Portuguese, featuring a blend of European and Indian architectural styles.
- Payyambalam Beach – A pristine beach with white sand and clear blue waters.
- Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach – The only drive-in beach in Kerala, ideal for a unique driving experience.
- Thottada Beach – A secluded beach known for its tranquil ambiance.
- Kannur Beach – A popular beach in the heart of the city, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
- Ezhimala Hill – A scenic hill with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
- Parassinikadavu Temple – A renowned temple dedicated to Lord Muthappan, known for its unique rituals.
- Mridanga Saileswari Temple – A beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, known for its intricate carvings and architecture.
- Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary – A natural sanctuary home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
- Thalassery Fort – A British-built fort featuring a mix of European and Indian architectural styles.
- Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple – A historic temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its intricate carvings and murals.
- Meenkunnu Beach – A secluded beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
- Gundert Bungalow – A historic colonial-era bungalow where the famous German missionary Hermann Gundert lived.
- Thalassery Pier – A scenic pier offering breathtaking views of the sea.
- Snake Park – A park featuring a variety of snakes, including the King Cobra.
- Mappila Bay – A serene bay with calm waters and beautiful surroundings.
- Thodeekulam Shiva Temple – A historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its elaborate architecture.
- Kavvayi Backwaters – A network of interconnected lagoons and canals, ideal for boating and fishing.
- Baby Beach – A secluded beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
- Pazhassi Dam – A scenic dam built across the Valapattanam River.
- Kottiyoor Mahadeva Temple – A historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its unique rituals.
- Valiyaparamba Backwaters – A network of backwaters known for its scenic beauty and tranquility.
- Mridanga Saileswari Temple – A beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, known for its intricate carvings and architecture.
- Tellicherry Fort – A historic fort built by the British, featuring a mix of European and Indian architectural styles.
- Peravoor – A scenic hill station known for its natural beauty and panoramic views.
- Dharmadam Island – A small island located off the coast of Kannur, ideal for a day trip.
- Kannur Lighthouse – A historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the city and the sea.
- Kalarivathukkal Temple – A historic temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, known for its unique rituals and traditions.
- Pythal Mala – A scenic hill station with lush greenery and stunning views.
- Parassinikadavu Snake Park – A park featuring a variety of snakes and reptiles.
- Kizhunna Beach – A secluded beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
- Mahe – A small town located on the border of Kerala and Puducherry, known for its colonial-era architecture.
- Ezhara Beach – A secluded beach ideal for
- Madayipara – A scenic plateau with lush greenery and a variety of flora and fauna.
- Palakkayam Thattu – A scenic hill station with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and forests.
- Kavvayi Kayal – A large, scenic backwater lake with tranquil waters and beautiful surroundings. Visitors can take a boat ride to explore the lake and its many islands.
Weather and Best time to visit Kannur
Kannur experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September. The temperature ranges from 22°C to 34°C throughout the year, with high humidity levels.
The best time to visit Kannur is from October to May, during the winter and early summer months. The weather during this time is pleasant, with moderate temperatures and lower humidity levels. It is a great time to visit the beaches, explore the town’s cultural heritage, and enjoy outdoor activities. However, it is advisable to carry light cotton clothes and sunscreen as the sun can be quite strong during the daytime.
How To Reach Kannur
Kannur is well-connected to the rest of the country by air, rail, and road. Here are the different modes of transportation to reach Kannur:
- By Air: Kannur International Airport is located in Mattannur, about 28 km away from Kannur city. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad, with regular flights operated by domestic and international airlines.
- By Train: Kannur Railway Station is a major railway station in Kerala, with trains connecting to major cities across the country. Some of the popular trains that operate to Kannur include the Netravati Express, Rajdhani Express, and the Kerala Sampark Kranti Express.
- By Road: Kannur is well-connected by road, with regular bus services operated by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private operators. The city is connected to major cities in Kerala and neighboring states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu by national and state highways.
- By Car/Taxi: Visitors can also hire a car or taxi to reach Kannur from nearby cities like Mangalore or Calicut. The journey by road is quite scenic and passes through several picturesque towns and villages.
Once in Kannur, visitors can also use local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws to explore the town and nearby attractions.
Accommodation Options in Kannur
Kannur has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the popular accommodation options in Kannur:
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Kannur has a number of luxury hotels and resorts offering world-class amenities and services. Some of the popular options include The Lalit Resort & Spa, Club Mahindra Resort, and Hotel Blue Nile.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Kannur also has several mid-range hotels and guesthouses offering comfortable accommodation and basic amenities. Some of the popular options include Malabar Residency, Kairali Heritage Resort, and Mascot Beach Resort.
- Budget Hotels and Guesthouses: For budget-conscious travelers, Kannur has many affordable guesthouses, homestays, and budget hotels. Some of the popular options include Vismaya Homestay, Kavvayi Beach House, and Skyline Residency.
- Beach Huts and Cottages: Visitors can also find several beach huts and cottages near the beaches of Kannur, offering a unique and rustic experience. Some of the popular options include Kannur Beach House, Kannur Beachway, and Blue Mermaid Homestay.
It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist season (December to February) as rooms tend to get booked up quickly.
Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Kannur As per users Reviews and Ratings
Here’s a brief on the top 10 hotels to stay in Kannur based on user reviews and ratings:
- The Lalit Resort & Spa Bekal – A luxurious resort with excellent facilities, beautiful views, and exceptional service.
- Kairali Heritage Resort – A heritage property set amidst lush greenery, offering traditional Kerala-style accommodation and warm hospitality.
- Club Mahindra Resort – A sprawling resort with spacious rooms, excellent amenities, and a beautiful location overlooking the Arabian Sea.
- Malabar Residency – A mid-range hotel with clean rooms, friendly staff, and a central location, making it a great value-for-money option.
- Blue Mermaid Homestay – A charming beachfront homestay with well-maintained rooms, beautiful views, and friendly hosts.
- Mascot Beach Resort – A mid-range beach resort with comfortable rooms, a beautiful pool, and direct access to the beach.
- Vismaya Homestay – A budget-friendly homestay with clean rooms, friendly hosts, and a great location near the beach.
- Kannur Beachway – A cozy beachfront homestay with clean and comfortable rooms, warm hospitality, and stunning views.
- Skyline Residency – A budget hotel with clean and spacious rooms, excellent service, and a central location.
- Kavvayi Beach House – A beautiful beachfront homestay with clean and comfortable rooms, friendly hosts, and a peaceful location away from the crowds.
Travel Tips To Know Before Your Trip to Kannur
Here are some travel tips to keep in mind before your trip to Kannur:
- Pack light cotton clothes and sunscreen as the weather can be quite hot and humid, especially during the summer months.
- Carry insect repellent as mosquitoes can be a problem in some areas, especially during the monsoon season.
- Kannur is a conservative town, and visitors are advised to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or other religious places.
- Kannur is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine, but visitors with sensitive stomachs should be cautious while trying out new dishes.
- Visitors are advised to carry sufficient cash as not all establishments may accept credit/debit cards.
- Kannur is a safe town, but it is always advisable to take basic precautions like not carrying too much cash, avoiding deserted areas at night, and keeping your belongings safe.
- Kannur is a popular tourist destination, and it can get quite crowded during peak season (December to February). It is advisable to book accommodation, transportation, and activities in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
- Visitors can also hire a local guide to explore the town and learn more about its history, culture, and architecture.
- Kannur is known for its traditional handloom textiles, and visitors can shop for authentic fabrics, sarees, and clothing at the local markets.
- Visitors should also respect the local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious places or interacting with the locals.
Food To Eat in Kannur
Kannur is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine, influenced by its rich cultural history and diverse population. Here are some must-try dishes in Kannur:
- Thalassery Biriyani – A fragrant and spicy biriyani made with short-grain rice, tender meat, and aromatic spices.
- Malabar Parotta – A flaky and layered flatbread made with maida flour, served with a spicy chicken or beef curry.
- Kozhikode Halwa – A sweet and sticky pudding made with wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, flavored with cardamom and nuts.
- Fish Moilee – A mild and creamy coconut-based fish curry, flavored with green chilies, ginger, and curry leaves.
- Meen Mulakittathu – A spicy and tangy fish curry made with tamarind, red chilies, and garlic, and flavored with fenugreek seeds and mustard.
- Chemmeen Ularthiyathu – A spicy and flavorful shrimp stir-fry made with onion, tomato, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices.
- Malabar Prawn Curry – A spicy and tangy prawn curry made with coconut milk, tamarind, and a blend of aromatic spices.
- Chicken Fry – A spicy and crispy fried chicken dish, flavored with garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices.
- Pathiri – A soft and thin rice flour flatbread, served with a spicy meat or vegetable curry.
- Pazham Pori – A sweet and crispy snack made with ripe bananas, coated with a batter of flour, sugar, and cardamom, and deep-fried until golden brown.
Visitors can try these dishes at local restaurants, street food stalls, and homestays in Kannur.
Best Places for Shopping in Kannur
Kannur is known for its traditional handloom textiles, spices, and handicrafts. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Kannur:
- Fort Road – A bustling shopping area in the heart of Kannur, known for its textiles, jewelry, and spices.
- Handloom Weavers Cooperative Society – A government-owned store that sells authentic handloom textiles, including sarees, dress materials, and home furnishings.
- Kairali Handicrafts – A popular handicraft store that sells a variety of souvenirs, including wooden carvings, brass lamps, and pottery.
- SM Street – A busy shopping area that sells a variety of goods, including textiles, jewelry, and electronics.
- Thalassery Market – A traditional market that sells spices, fish, and vegetables, popular among locals and visitors alike.
- Dhanalakshmi Handicrafts – A handicraft store that sells a range of products, including handwoven rugs, carpets, and wall hangings.
- Taliparamba Market – A traditional market that sells spices, fruits, and vegetables, popular among locals and visitors alike.
- Payyannur Market – A bustling market that sells a variety of goods, including textiles, jewelry, and electronics.
- Centre Square Mall – A modern shopping mall that houses a range of retail stores, food courts, and entertainment zones.
Visitors can also explore the local markets and street vendors to find unique and authentic products at reasonable prices.
Things you Can Buy as a Tourist From Kannur
As a tourist visiting Kannur, there are many things you can buy as souvenirs or gifts for yourself and your loved ones. Here are some popular items you can buy in Kannur:
- Handloom Textiles – Kannur is known for its traditional handloom textiles, including sarees, dress materials, and home furnishings. You can buy these products at government-owned stores and local handicraft shops.
- Spices – Kannur is famous for its spices, including black pepper, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. You can buy these spices in bulk or as packaged products at local markets and grocery stores.
- Handicrafts – Kannur is home to skilled artisans who create a variety of handicrafts, including wooden carvings, brass lamps, pottery, and coir products. You can buy these products at local handicraft stores and street vendors.
- Coconut Products – Kannur is known for its coconut plantations, and you can buy a variety of coconut-based products, including coconut oil, coconut milk, and coconut shell products.
- Cashew Nuts – Kannur is a major producer of cashew nuts, and you can buy these nuts in bulk or as packaged products at local markets and grocery stores.
- Seafood – Kannur is a coastal city, and you can buy a variety of fresh and dried seafood products, including fish, prawns, and squid.
- Ayurvedic Products – Kannur is known for its Ayurvedic treatments and products, and you can buy a range of natural beauty and wellness products at local Ayurvedic centers and stores.
- Tea and Coffee – Kannur produces high-quality tea and coffee, and you can buy these products at local markets and grocery stores.
These items are popular souvenirs that reflect the culture, history, and natural beauty of Kannur.
Nightlife in Kannur
Kannur is not known for its nightlife, and there are limited options for nightlife entertainment in the city. However, there are a few places you can visit to enjoy a drink and some music in the evening:
- Trance Greenfields – A popular open-air discotheque located near the Kannur Beach, known for its music and party atmosphere.
- Over The Cliff – A rooftop bar located near the Payyambalam Beach, known for its sea view, cocktails, and live music performances.
- Blue Mermaid – A beachside bar located near the Thottada Beach, known for its cocktails, seafood, and relaxed atmosphere.
- Copper Spoon – A bar and restaurant located in the city center, known for its cocktails, live music, and fusion cuisine.
- Ocean Hues – A beachfront restaurant and bar located near the Muzhappilangad Beach, known for its seafood, cocktails, and scenic views.
It’s worth noting that most bars and clubs in Kannur close early, usually by 10 pm, due to local regulations. Visitors are advised to check the timings and entry requirements of each establishment before visiting.
Activities and Things to Do in Kannur
Kannur, located in the state of Kerala, offers a range of activities and things to do for visitors. Here are some popular activities and attractions in Kannur:
- Visit the beaches – Kannur is known for its beautiful beaches, including Payyambalam Beach, Thottada Beach, and Muzhappilangad Beach. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like surfing and jet skiing.
- Explore the Forts – Kannur has a rich history, and there are several forts that tourists can visit, including St. Angelo Fort and Kannur Fort.
- Watch Theyyam – Theyyam is a traditional ritual dance form performed in Kannur and other parts of northern Kerala. Visitors can witness this unique art form at various temples and cultural centers in Kannur.
- Visit the Handloom Weaving Centers – Kannur is known for its handloom textiles, and visitors can visit weaving centers to see how these products are made.
- Take a Backwater Cruise – Kannur is located close to the backwaters of Kerala, and visitors can take a boat ride through the serene waterways to see the lush greenery and wildlife.
- Visit the Parassinikkadavu Snake Park – This snake park is located near Kannur and houses a variety of snakes and other reptiles. Visitors can learn about these animals and watch live shows.
- Attend the Theyyam Festival – The annual Theyyam festival is a major cultural event in Kannur, where visitors can witness different forms of Theyyam dances and rituals.
- Try Local Cuisine – Kannur is known for its delicious cuisine, including seafood, vegetarian dishes, and traditional Kerala food. Visitors can try local delicacies at restaurants and street food stalls.
These are some of the popular activities and attractions in Kannur that visitors can enjoy during their trip.
Lesser Known facts about Kannur
Here are some lesser-known facts about Kannur:
- Kannur is known as the ‘Land of Looms and Lores’ due to its rich handloom weaving tradition and cultural heritage.
- It is believed that Kannur got its name from the two Malayalam words “Kannan” and “Ur” which mean “Lord Krishna’s Place.”
- Kannur has a significant place in the Indian freedom struggle, and it was the site of the famous 1921 Malabar Rebellion against British colonialism.
- The Theyyam ritual, a popular art form in Kannur, is considered one of the oldest surviving art forms in the world.
- The St. Angelo Fort in Kannur was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and is considered one of the oldest European forts in India.
- The Muzhappilangad Beach in Kannur is the longest drive-in beach in Asia, where visitors can drive their cars along the beach.
- Kannur has a rich tradition of Ayurveda, and there are several Ayurvedic treatment centers and spas in the city.
- The Kannur International Airport is the fourth international airport in Kerala, which was opened in 2018.
These are some lesser-known facts about Kannur that showcase the city’s unique history, culture, and traditions.
FAQ About Kannur
Sure, here are some frequently asked questions about Kannur along with their answers:
Q: Where is Kannur located?
A: Kannur is a city located in the northern part of Kerala, a state in South India.
Q: What is Kannur famous for?
A: Kannur is known for its handloom weaving tradition, cultural heritage, historical forts, beautiful beaches, and traditional art forms like Theyyam.
Q: How can I reach Kannur?
A: Kannur can be reached by air, train, or road. The city has its own international airport, and there are regular train and bus services from major cities in Kerala and other states.
Q: What is the best time to visit Kannur?
A: The best time to visit Kannur is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.
Q: What are some popular tourist attractions in Kannur?
A: Some popular tourist attractions in Kannur include St. Angelo Fort, Payyambalam Beach, Thottada Beach, Muzhappilangad Beach, and Parassinikkadavu Snake Park.
Q: What is Theyyam?
A: Theyyam is a traditional ritual dance form performed in Kannur and other parts of northern Kerala, which showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Q: What are some popular dishes to try in Kannur?
A: Some popular dishes to try in Kannur include seafood like fish curry, prawn fry, and squid roast, as well as vegetarian dishes like appam, puttu, and sambar.
Q: What are some popular festivals celebrated in Kannur?
A: Some popular festivals celebrated in Kannur include the annual Theyyam festival, Vishu, Onam, and the Malabar Mahotsavam.
These are some of the commonly asked questions about Kannur that visitors may find helpful when planning their trip.
