Calicut, also known as Kozhikode is one of the most beautiful cities in Kerala located on the Malabar Coast of South India. Being one of the top tourist destinations in Kerala, it is a place full of surprises with sun-kissed beaches, dense jungles, and a rich historical legacy. Every lane, building, and beach carries many untold stories and memories from the past.

The city offers so many fun activities for tourists. You can go birdwatching at Kalalundi bird sanctuary and visit many sightseeing places. To experience the unique culture of Kerala, tourists can also visit Iringa Crafts Village. Don’t forget to try those traditional recipes and local delicacies.

Things to do in Calicut

• Pay a visit to the museum Krishna Menon Museum, which is located about 6 km away from Calicut Railway Station at East Hill is an amazing place to be. If you are a History buff, this famous attraction of Kozhikode city will leave you asking for more. Pazhassi raja Museum is also a famous one. It was established in 1975 in Kozhikode (Calicut) and has great historical significance. It is easily accessible through the Karipur Airport which is located at a distance of about 25 km.

• Spend some Sunny time at the Beach Kozhikode Beach is located about 1.6 Km away from the city centre. Major areas of entertainment near the beach are the Dolphin's Point, Lions Club Children's Park, many ice-cream parlours, fishermen boats, golden sandy shores, a lighthouse and a marine aquarium. The beach is famous for its breathtaking sunset in the evening with a great view when you can take a long walk along the seashore.

Kappad Beach is also a popular beach in Calicut which is located about 15 km away from Calicut railway station and 22 km away from Karipur International Airport. Private transport vehicles are also available to reach destinations from Calicut Municipal Bus stand. It is a must-see place in Kozhikode if you are a beach lover and you plan to visit this city.

• Explore the famous Calicut Shipping yard Beypore is a small town near Calicut located about 12 km away from the city on Kallayi road. Calicut is famous for its traditional shipbuilding yard where the world famous URU is built, a port and the beautiful beach of Beypore with the fishing harbour. You can easily visit this place city using regular bus services from Kozhikode city centre.

• Watch those amazing birds fly high Kadalundi Bird sanctuary is a place for migratory birds located about 24 km away from Kozhikode. Several migratory birds like Tern, Gull, Heron, Sandpiper; Whimbrel, etc can be found here between the months November to April. Also, the month from December to April in the early hours of the day is usually best to visit the sanctuary.

• Get mesmerised by the waterfalls Kakkadampoyil waterfalls are located in a small rural village in Malappuram District about 42 km away from Calicut. You need to reach Valanthod or Koyilpara to visit this waterfall. You would be fascinated to know that these waterfalls stand on the Western top of the Western Ghats.

Where to stay in Calicut?

By now you have a fair idea about the interesting things you can do in Calicut. Now, we would like to take you through the places you can stay in Calicut. Maavur road, Arayidathupalam, Taluk road, Rajaji road, Logans road near Thalassery and Oyitty road near the railway station are some of the best locations to stay in Calicut. OYO is located in almost all the well-known locations in Calicut. Stay tension free and choose a location which suits your travel requirements.

Hotels in Calicut

You name it and Calicut has it. Ranging from beach resorts to wildlife resorts and luxury hotels, there are plenty of places to choose from. You can find many budget hotels as well. OYO has a wide variety of hotels that offer amenities like free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, parking facilities; choose the best option available and you are all set for a budget-friendly trip. Some of the hotels also offer complimentary breakfast. The best thing about choosing from this wide range of hotels is you can avail many offers in future which will come in handy for your future travel trips.

Best time to visit Calicut

October-March is usually the best time to visit Calicut. The weather is pleasant during these months. Summers (April-June) are quite hot and Monsoons (July-September) are hot and humid. You should definitely consider visiting Calicut in the month of January during the Malabar Mahotsavam.

The festival aims to bring alive the cultural heritage of Kerala through various traditional and folk arts, classical music, dance, drama, etc.

Jalotsavam is also a popular festival which is organised as part of the Onam festival. Chundanvalloms or snake boats are a major highlight of these sports events.

Shivarathri Utsavam is organized annually at Thiruvangoor Sri Mahaganapathy temple, located about 18 km from Kozhikode. The festival is celebrated with grandeur for a span of two days in the month of October.