Kozhikode (earlier Calicut, anglicized form of Kalikut) means Koyil (Palace) Kodu (fortified) is situated in the south Indian state of Kerala on the southwest coast of the Arabian Sea with serene beaches, emerald green countryside. It was the capital of the powerful Zamorins and a major trade and commerce center. Portuguese navigator Vasco Da Gama , who landed at the Kappad, near Kozhikode in 1498 was the first in the country to receive a force from a Western country.
Climate
Due to its nearness to sea, the place has a hot and humid climate. Summer starts from March and continues until May. Maximum temperature recorded in the month of May is 36°C and minimum temperature recorded in the month of December is 14°C. Southwest monsoon arrives in the first week of June and average annual rainfall is 254 cm
Attractions
Kozhikode Beach/ Dolphin's Point Dolphin's Point is an excellent place to watch dolphins playing in the sea early in the morning. It has an old lighthouse and two crumbling piers, along with entertainment facilities like the Lion's park for children and the marine water aquarium.
Kappad: Kappad is the place where Vasco da Gama set foot for the first time when he came to India on May 27, 1498. There is a small stone monument at the beach to commemorate that event. is located on the East Hill. Ancient mural paintings, antique bronzes, old coins, models of temples, and megalithic structures are on display here.
The Science Planetarium: Located at Jaffarkhan Colony is offers extensive insight into the mysteries of the universe, the planets and the galaxies.
Mananchira: was the palace tank of King Mana Vikrama, has been now turned into a traditional architectural brilliance with carpeted green grass and surrounded by ethnic buildings. The place also has a musical fountain
Beypore : Kerala's oldest port and traditional wooden ship making industry is 11 km from Calicut.
Vadakara, 48 km from Calicut is a commercial center of martial arts and the birthplace of Tacholi Othenan, a legendry hero of North Malabar.
Pazhassiraja Museum & Art Gallery:
This museum displays ancient murals, antique bronzes, old coins, excavated earthenware, models of temples, megalithic monuments etc.
Krishna Menon Museum : This museum displays the personal belongings and souvenirs of Late V. K. Krishna Menon, a renowned statesman.
Velliyamkallu: This massive rock, once a favorable position for the marakkars to attack the invading Portuguese, has fine-looking natural engravings worth exploring.
Thikkoti Lighthouse :This lighthouse overlooking Velliyamkallu of Moodadi coast was built after a shipwreck, the remains of which can still be seen here.
Thusharagiri is famous for its waterfalls and lush green forests. It is at a distance of 11 km from Kodenchery, a place abounding in rubber plantations, coconut, pepper, ginger, and spices of all sorts, a must visit from Calicut.
Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary: 25 km from Calicut is a heaven for migratory birds. Terns, gulls, herons, sandpipers, whimbrels, and other migratory birds flock the place from the month of November and returns only by the end of April.
