Kannur District is known as the land of looms and lores, because of the number of looms functioning in the district and festivals held in temples. The district is a major centre of Theyyam, a ritual dance of northern Kerala, and small shrines known as kavus associated with the Theyyam dot the district. Bounded by Kasaragod District to the north and Kozhikode District to the south. To the east the district is bounded by the Western Ghats range, which forms the border with Karnataka state, in its districts of Kodagu and Chamarajanagar. The Arabian Sea lies to the west. The district itself which shares much of this natural splendor has been a key contributor to the cultural, religious, political and industrial heritage of the state. In addition, Kannur enjoys the credit of having been the cradle of many colorful folk arts and folk music of Kerala. Snake Park is a famous landmark in the district of Snake Park at Parassinikkadavu, en route from Kannur to Taliparamba, 2 km from National Highway NH 17. Here one gets to see a large genre of snakes and other small animals and there is even a live show, where trained personnel play and ‘interact’ with a variety of snakes, including cobras and vipers, and seek to quell mythical fears and superstitions about snakes. St. Angelo’s Fort, built in 1505 by Sir Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese Viceroy of India, is situated near the sea coast and about 2 km away from Kannur town. The Thiruvangad temple, dedicated to Sree Rama, one of the important temple located in Kannur. The most striking feature of this temple is the copper sheeting of its roof, due to which it is known popularly as the Brass Pagoda. Meenkunnu Beach – 12 Km from Kannur, uncrowded and serene the beach is a tourist’s paradise with golden sand and surf. Parassinikadavu – 16 km from Kannur, Sri Muthappan Temple stands on the Banks of the Valapattanam River. This pilgrim centre is famous for the Muthappan Theyyam performed every morning and evening.
The resonant past and plenty of myths and legends have earned Kannur, capital of the ancient Vadakkan Kolathiri Kingdom, the name ‘the crown of Kerala’.Kannur The virgin and clean beaches at Payyambalam, Meenkunnu and Kizhunna are a tourist’s paradise. One could lose oneself riding into the sunset at Kerala’s only drive-in beach at Muzhippilangadi. Kannur has many monuments which were chief residences and control centers during the days when British and Europeans invaded the land. The famous snake park in Kannur is unique to it and the demonstrations there are quite popular. Visiting Thalassery you could visit not only the first gymnastic center but also you might be presented with an opportunity to watch superb performances at the very birthplace of the art ‘Circus’.Kannur District is known as the land of looms and lores, because of the number of looms functioning in the district and festivals held in temples. The district is a major centre of Theyyam, a ritual dance of northern Kerala, and small shrines known as kavus associated with the Theyyam dot the district. Bounded by Kasaragod District to the north and Kozhikode District to the south. To the east the district is bounded by the Western Ghats range, which forms the border with Karnataka state, in its districts of Kodagu and Chamarajanagar. The Arabian Sea lies to the west.
The district itself which shares much of this natural splendor has been a key contributor to the cultural, religious, political and industrial heritage of the state. In addition, Kannur enjoys the credit of having been the cradle of many colorful folk arts and folk music of Kerala. Snake Park is a famous landmark in the district of Snake Park at Parassinikkadavu, en route from Kannur to Taliparamba, 2 km from National Highway NH 17. Here one gets to see a large genre of snakes and other small animals and there is even a live show, where trained personnel play and ‘interact’ with a variety of snakes, including cobras and vipers, and seek to quell mythical fears and superstitions about snakes. St. Angelo’s Fort, built in 1505 by Sir Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese Viceroy of India, is situated near the sea coast and about 2 km away from Kannur town. The Thiruvangad temple, dedicated to Sree Rama, one of the important temple located in Kannur. The most striking feature of this temple is the copper sheeting of its roof, due to which it is known popularly as the Brass Pagoda. Meenkunnu Beach – 12 Km from Kannur, uncrowded and serene the beach is a tourist’s paradise with golden sand and surf. Parassinikadavu – 16 km from Kannur, Sri Muthappan Temple stands on the Banks of the Valapattanam River. This pilgrim centre is famous for the Muthappan Theyyam performed every morning and evening.
The resonant past and plenty of myths and legends have earned Kannur, capital of the ancient Vadakkan Kolathiri Kingdom, the name ‘the crown of Kerala’.Kannur The virgin and clean beaches at Payyambalam, Meenkunnu and Kizhunna are a tourist’s paradise. One could lose oneself riding into the sunset at Kerala’s only drive-in beach at Muzhippilangadi. Kannur has many monuments which were chief residences and control centers during the days when British and Europeans invaded the land. The famous snake park in Kannur is unique to it and the demonstrations there are quite popular. Visiting Thalassery you could visit not only the first gymnastic center but also you might be presented with an opportunity to watch superb performances at the very birthplace of the art ‘Circus’.
Payyamballam Beach
– 2 kms from Kannur town
This long stretch coastline with its golden sand is the one of the most serene getaways in the crown of Kerala (Kannur). Laterite rocks paint a lovely orange backdrop on one side of this beach. Very close to the sea is a park that also has a section particularly designed for children. The many figurines erected in the area, especially the colossal sculpture of ‘a mother and a child’ are breathtaking pieces of art.
At a short distance from the beach is the Payyambalam canal and a well furnished guesthouse. Lazy strolls along the canal, pleasant boat rides in its waters and captivating sights of the sunset are among other things that the place has to offer
Fort St. Angelo
– 3 kms away from Kannur town
This marvelous fort that is a well-known landmark of Kannur dates back to the 14 th century. From various points on this fort that is currently being maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, one can get picturesque views of the Kerala coast. Standing on a high-rise, on the shores of the Arabian Sea, the fort paints a perfect picture, especially during sunset. Kannur fort also remains a brilliant specimen of ancient Portuguese architecture.
Tellicherry Fort
– 20 kms away from Kannur
This fort that was originally built by the East India Company has seen many Indian rulers take command hence is a historically important site. The colossal structure made of red bricks, was used for various purposes. The place that is now looked upon as a pilgrim center was once a prison and later a currency mint.
Pazhassi Dam Site
– 37 kms away from Kannur
The popular dam has been built across the Kuyilurpuzha in Kannur. It derives its name from the celebrated hero and king of ancient Kerala, Pazhassi Raja. The spot and the surrounding area are really alluring and there are also excellent boating facilities available here. By traveling a little you can also visit the birth place of the King.
The Residence of the Gundert
– 2 kms away from Thalassery
This is a place of historical importance, a chance to visit the abode of a foreigner who contributed more to the language Malayalam than any native had ever done. The Gundert Bungalow at Illikkunnu is where the German Missionary Herrman Gundert had lived for over two decades. The first English- Malayalam dictionary was the gift of this linguist to Kerala and the Malayalees.
Transport Facility
Air:The nearest airport is at Karipur, Kozhikode , is about 93 km south of Kannur.
Rail: Kannur railway station is well linked to major towns up country as well as within the State.
Road: Kannur is accessible by road.
Muzhuppilangad Beach
-15 kms away from Kannur & 8 kms away from Thalassery
KannurThis 4.5 kms long stretch along the northern Kerala coast, has earned its fame not just because of its beauty, but also because of its unique feature. This is the only drive- in beach in the state. The sea here is relatively shallow, and there is a children’s park just along the shore; making Muzhuppilangad beach one of the best location to chill out with family. Gorgeous little huts have been built by the beach for those who wish to stay longer. Go for a relaxing swim in the cool water, feel the wind on your face and breathe in fresh air as you sit on the rocks, or enjoy the sun working a tan on you.
Dharmadam Island
– 100 m away from sea shore
This exquisite island that was once an important trade center is less than a kilometer away from the Kannur shore. The fact that this island packed with coconut trees remains uninhabited makes it even more exotic a location- a place you would wish you were stranded! There are frequent boats to the island from both Kannur and Thalassery.
Parassinikkadavu Temple
– 20 kms away from Kannur
This temple where the main deity is “muthappan” is one of the famous centers of worship. The temple of South India allows non- Hindu devotees as well. The Muthappan temple has been built in a very scenic location by the banks of a river. Tourists can make use of the boating facilities here and also witness the famous art form of Theyyam that is performed in the temple premises all year round.
Paithamala
is a well drawn out mountain range. It stands abou of the mountain- by bus, jeep and foot. But it presents a good trekking opportunity and the view from the top of the mountain is breathtaking. One can also try venturing into the Kudaku forest at the North of Paitahmala.
Valapattanam
-7 km from Kannur
Valapattanam is to Kannur what famous Kallayi is to Kozhikode . The place earns its fame from the flourishing timber trade and woodwork industries situated on the banks of Valapattanam River . The river can aptly be called the life of Kannur. It not only serves as fishing harbour, but supplies water for irrigation in almost the whole of the district.
