Kozhikode, better known as Calicut, stands as one of Kerala's major commercial, economic and cultural hubs. Crisscrossed by the Poonor and Malampuzha rivers, with numerous tourist attractions including museums and beaches, this distinctive city makes for a pleasant stop on a circuit through South-west India.

History

Historians suggest that Kozhikode may be the Kalaikaris of Ptolemy's writings. In the West, the city has long been known as Calicut, while the Chinese called it Kalifo and the Arabs, Kalikat.

In ancient times, Kozhikode was ruled by the Zamorin dynasty—the Portuguese rendering of Samutiri, meaning the "great lord of the sea". The city functioned as the most important port on the Malabar coast, where regular commercial exchanges with Arab and Chinese merchants took place.

It was at Kozhikode that the fleet of Zheng He anchored in 1406. The city also became the gateway for Portuguese navigators led by Vasco da Gama arriving in India in 1498, specifically landing at Kappad Beach, roughly fifteen kilometres from Calicut. Over time, tensions emerged between the Arabs and Portuguese as the latter gained equivalent trading rights. The Portuguese made Kozhikode their export port for copra and pepper, before relocating to Cochin due to persistent conflicts with Arab merchants.

Later, new Western explorers arrived in Kerala. Hoping to gain support against Portuguese dominance, the Zamorins permitted the Dutch to trade at Kozhikode.

In 1725, the forces of Haidar Ali of Mysore plundered and destroyed Calicut. Reconstruction only began in 1792, when the British took control following a treaty.

Today

Spanning 128 square kilometres, Calicut holds a rich historical and cultural heritage. From Mananchira Maidan park, home to an artificial lake, to the Palayam Juma Masjid mosque and the Tali Temple, the city's attractions await discovery.

Among notable sites is a series of museums offering fascinating insights. The Krishna Menon Museum, for instance, features a dedicated wing to the illustrious historian V. K. Krishna Menon, displaying his works alongside personal effects and memorabilia. The Kujhali Marakkar Museum, housed in the former residence of this brave warrior, contains a collection of weapons and relics from the period of conflict between the Zamorins and Portuguese. A favourite destination for historians and art enthusiasts, the Pazhassi Raja Museum and Art Gallery showcases paintings by Kerala's most celebrated artists, including the internationally renowned Raja Vavi Varma.

Beyond these attractions, Calicut offers countless engaging activities to enrich your stay. Those passionate about wildlife won't miss Dolphin's Point to witness dolphins at play, while water sports enthusiasts will find Kappad Beach their ideal playground. Other local highlights include boat rides along the Poonor and Malampuzha rivers, and visits to the Kozhippara Waterfalls—all guaranteed to satisfy your desire for discovery and escape.

Kozhikode hosts numerous markets and shopping centres to suit all tastes. You'll certainly return home with treasures from your Calicut visit. Sweat Meat Street stands as the city's most vibrant commercial thoroughfare, while Big Bazaar Road is the perfect destination for sourcing the spices that have made Kerala famous. Here you'll also find buffalo horn sculptures and rosewood carvings, coconut-fibre articles, traditional garments, miniature replicas of snake boats, cotton bags and much more.

On the culinary front, Kozhikode promises food lovers an abundance of flavours and tastes. Must-try regional specialities include Kozikodan Biryani, Kallumakai, Pathiri pancakes and Erachi Curry.

Climate

Kozhikode enjoys a savanna climate with dry winters. Rainfall is considerably heavier during the summer season than in winter. Year-round, the city averages 27.5°C in temperature and 1983.5 mm of precipitation.

Access to Kozhikode is possible by air, rail, road and sea.

By air, the nearest airport services are at Karipur, 23 km away, offering daily flights to Mumbai, Bangalore and the Middle East. By rail, Kozhikode connects to several cities including Cochin, Chennai, Mumbai, New Delhi and Kolkata. By road, Kozhikode benefits from a reasonably extensive network linking it to major towns on the Malabar Coast and neighbouring states. Additionally, the city has a port for those choosing maritime travel.

Kozhikode can be explored using various transport modes. Options include buses with a well-developed network, auto-rickshaws—practical and affordable for short journeys—taxis for city and surrounding area travel, and rental vehicles for complete freedom of movement.

What to Do in Kozhikode?

• Explore the numerous museums
• Relax and enjoy water sports at Kappad Beach
• Take boat rides along the rivers
• Taste Kerala's signature dishes
• Shop for spices and local crafts at the city's markets and malls