Attapaddy

Attapaddy


Attapaddy, situated in an elevated picturesque mountainous plateau on the northeastern side of Palakkad, stretches over an area of 827 sq. kms. The place has the largest tribal settlement in Kerala and the main tribal groups here are the Irular, Mudugar and Kurumbar. With a beautiful synthesis of mountains, rivers and forest, Attapady offers a dazzling sight to the visitors. The highest peak in Palakkad, i.e the Malleshwaram peak is situated here which is worshipped as a gigantic 'Shivalinga' by the tribals. 

Kanjirapuzha Dam

Kanjirapuzha Dam


The magnificent lake, Kanjirapuzha surrounded by heavily wooded hills is located 24 kms from Palakkad. Just beyond the reservoir and surrounded by the hills, is the ever green forest, 'Vettilachola'. During rainy season, mist-wrap mountains creates a picturesque landscape which provides a visual treat. Boating facilities are also available here. 

Mangalam Dam

Mangalam Dam

Mangalam area, located 48kms south of Palakkad is mainly occupied by settlers from other parts of the State. The popular picnic spot Mangalam dam is constructed across river Cherukunnapuzha which is a tributary of the river Mangalam. Constructed in the year 1956, the entire thick vegetation area of the dam is quite fascinating with beautiful parks, lawns and statues.

Siruvani

Siruvani


Situated 48 km away from Palakkad town is an exciting tourist destination, Siruvani. To meet the drinking water requirement of Coimbatore, Kerala Government has built a reservoir at Siruvani. Set in the midst of dense wilderness, the Siruvani dam offers a fabulous view of the heavily forested hills containing all sorts of wild animals.

Sree Ramaswami Temple

Sree Ramaswami Temple

Sree Ramaswami Temple dedicated to Sri Rama is one of the most important temples in Malabar and the oldest among the four temples dedicated to Lord Rama in Kerala. It is situated 23km from Kannur, near Thalasseri fort. The temple is well-known for the exquisite carvings on the walls which are believed to have been done nearly 400 years ago. As the temple roof is made with copper sheets, it is locally known as 'chempadicha melkoora' (brass pagoda). In the18th century, some portion of the temple was destroyed by Tipu's troops but the temple itself was saved from damage by gods miracle. The seven day long annual festival of the temple, 'Vishnu Mahotsavam' is held in the month of Medam (April -May). The festival that commences on the Vishu day, is a colourful event with elephant pageantries, processions, fire works and Panchavadyam. Ramnavami is also celebrated here with great enthusiasm.

Thodikalam Siva Temple

Thodikalam Siva Temple


The 16th century Thodikalam Siva Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located 34km southeast of Kannur, on the Thalasseri-Mananthavady road. Famed for its mural paintings, this 2000 year old temple is believed to have been constructed by the Pazhassi Raja Family of Kottayam (Thalasseri taluk). 

Sri Muthappan Temple

Sri Muthappan Temple

Parassinikadavu temple or Sri Muthappan temple is situated around 18 km north of Kannur town. This famous pilgrim centre on the banks of the Valapattanam river, attracts people from all sections of the society; irrespective of religion, caste and promotes the soul of 'Vasudaiva Kutumbakam'. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in his hunter form, known as 'Muthappan', is the only place in Kerala, where the ritualistic dance 'Theyyam' is performed all around the year. 'Muthappan Theyyam' is performed here twice daily at 6.30 in the morning when the temple opens, and 5.45 in the evening when the temple closes. Non Hindus also can watch the Theyyam performance.

The temple is a concrete structure with tiered roofs that is supported by pillars and decorated with elephants. The wooden shrine inside the temple are guarded by bronze temple dogs. The temple is supposed to have been built by the people of the town who felt the divine presence of Lord Shiva amongst them in the form of a small child. There is an interesting story behind the Muthappan Temple. A couple of a Namboothiri family who had no children, got a baby boy and they brought him up as their own child. As he grew, he always used to go to the forest for hunting and ate flesh with the backward communities, which was against the Namboothiri way of living. When he was asked to stop this, he took his parents to the forest and showed his divine form with bow, arrow and fiery eyes. One day on his way to Puralimala, he was attracted by the toddy of palm trees. But the toddy tapper refused to give him toddy and he got angry and aimed an arrow at him. When the tapper's wife saw him lying unconscious she cried and called 'Muthappa' and prayed to God to save her husband and suddenly he recovered from his unconscious state. So after this and other various miraculous incidents, a temple was built that came to be known as Sri Muthappan temple.

The temple has many unique practices and rituals. The daily offerings of this temple include toddy, fish and meat as 'nivedyams' to the deity, unheard of in any other temple. Dogs are also considered sacred and the prasadam (the blessed food) are first offered to them. The annual festival of the Parassinikkadavu temple which falls on 1st of December draws hordes of pilgrims. DTPC (District Tourism Promotion Council ) provides boating service in the river near the temple, amidst lush greenery and the river opening up to the sea ahead. Accommodation is available nearby.

Parassinikadavu Snake Park

Parassinikadavu Snake Park


Parassinikadavu situated about 16 Kms from Kannur, is famous for the Snake Park and the Sri Muthappan temple, the only place where the ritualistic dance 'Theyyam' is performed all around the year. Parassinikadavu Snake Park set up by the Visha Chikista Kendra at Pappinisseri on the way to Parassinikkadavu Temple, has been a centre of attraction to both foreign and domestic tourists. The park houses about 150 varieties of snakes including the Spectacled Cobra, King Cobra, Russell's viper, Krait and various pit vipers. There is also a large collection of non-poisonous snakes including Pythons. The snake park has three snake pits, fifteen glass cases for snakes and two large glass houses for King Cobras. Snake demonstrations are held every hour that draws large crowds. The Chikista Kendra offers effective treatment for snake bites with almost hundred per cent cure. This is the only place, perhaps where Ayurveda and Allopathy are effectively combined for curing snake bites. The park is open on all days from 9.00 am to 5.30pm. There are frequent bus services from Kannur to Parassinikadavu.

Aralam Wild life Sanctuary

Aralam Wild life Sanctuary


The tranquil Aralam Wildlife sanctuary spread over 55 square kilometres on the slopes of the Western Ghats is situated 60kms from Kannur and 35kms from Thalassery. The sanctuary is located in Muzhakkunnu panchayath that comes under the Wayanad Division. Established in 1984, it is home to numerous species of birds and animals. Leopards, jungle cats, various type of squirrels and deer, elephants, boar and bison are some of the animals seen here. Around 160 species of birds, even some species considered extinct, have been found here. The main forest type in this area is Tropical Ever-Green and the Tropical Semi Ever-Green. The flora here includes Calophyllum Elatum, Cullenia rosayroona, Magnifera indica, Toona cillata, Myristica Species, Euphorbia Longana, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum, Hopea parviflora, Largestroemia lanceolata, Mallotus etc. The best time to visit the park is from October to June.

Ezhimala

Ezhimala

The Ezhimala hills, renowned for rare medicinal herbs with mythological significance, is around 55 km from Kannur. Bordered by the sea on three sides, it is located at an altitude of 286m above sea level. Ezhimala, believed to have been visited by Lord Buddha, was one of the major battle fields of the Chola-Chera war in the 11th century. The place is also known as Mrithasanjeevani garden as there is a legend that a piece of plant filled earth fell in this area, while Hanuman was carrying the hill with the medicine to Lanka for savingLord Rama. There is also a temple dedicated to Hanuman here with a 41feet tall statue of the Anjaneya. 

The major attraction of Ezhimala is the beautiful beach. The beach sand here is of a different texture and the sea is bluer than in other areas. One could enjoy watching dolphins at the Ettikulam bay. An ancient burial chamber, a carved stone pillar and an old mosque that contains the mortal remains of Shaikh Abdul Latif can be seen at the foot of the hills which are of archaeological importance. There is a Naval Academy here. 

Kottiyoor

Kottiyoor

Kottiyoor, also known as Dakshina Kasi or Varanasi of the South, is 60 km away from Kannur town. The place is famous for the two ancient Shiva temples Akkare Kottiyoor and Ikkare Kottiyoor located in the dense forest on the opposite shores of River Bavali.

Pythal Mala

Pythal Mala is the scenic cliff at Sreekandapuram, around 65km from Kannur Town. Perched at an altitude of 4,500 ft. above sea level near the Kerala - Karnataka border, it is an ideal place for trekking. It is a 6 km trek to the top of the hills. Spread over an area of 300 acres, it is rich in flora and fauna and is home to numerous birds, butterflies, rare plants and trees. There is a reception center at the bottom and a watchtower at the top of this hill rock. The place is visited by nature lovers mainly during the summer season.

Dharmadam Island

Dharmadam Island

Dharmadam Island is a main picnic spot situated 17 kms from Kannur, located in the Arabian sea at a distance of 100 meters from the shore. Sprawling over an area of 5 acres and surrounded by rivers and beaches, this beautiful island is covered with tall coconut palms and dense bushes. The place, earlier known as Dharmapattanam, is also known by the names 'Dharmadam thuruth' or 'pacha thuruth' (green island). Dharmadam is believed to have been a Buddhist stronghold and Buddha images have been excavated from this place. Permission is required to enter this privately owned island. It can be seen from the Muzhappilangad beach and during low tide, one can just walk to the island from the beach. There are frequent boats to the island from Kannur and Thalassery.

Gundert Bungalow

Gundert Bungalow


Situated 20 km from Kannur, near Thalasseri town, on the National Highway at Illikunnu hill is the Gundert Bungalow. The Bungalow is of historical significance as it was the residence of Dr. Herman Gundert, the revered German missionary, scholar and lexicographer. He lived here for 20 years from 1839 and has written 18 books in Malayalam including a grammar book. He had also established a church on Nettur Hill in 1889. Gundert Bungalow is a prominent structure with wide doors and verandahs and deep tiled eaves. It was here that one of the first Malayalam dictionaries and the first Malayalam Newspaper - 'Paschimodayam' - took shape. Gundert's bungalow, now houses part of the Nettur Technical Training Foundation, a unique institution started by the Swiss Foundation. 

Thalasseri Fort

Thalasseri Fort

The imposing historical monument, Thalasseri fort, situated 22 km from Kannur, stands on a rocky cliff, right on the Thalasseri beach. Thalassery was the first settlement of the British East India Company on the western coast. The British arrived in Thalassery in 1683, and they shifted their commercial capital from Kozhikode to Thalassery, following obstruction from the Dutch. In 1700, they established a fort on a small hill called Tiruvellapadkunnu and it was reconstructed in 20th August 1708, by strengthening the gigantic walls and incorporating huge intricately carved doors. The fort was the military center of the British. It is believed to have a secret channel to the sea, which was used as an escape route when under attack.

Thalasseri Fort, now under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India has a magnificent gate way and a light house. Around the fort stands the Brennen cemetery, St.Rosario church, St.John's Anglican church and the sub-collector's bungalow. Brennen cemetery, named after Sir Edward Brennen, houses tomb's of many European officials of the East India Company. Other attractions in the vicinity of the fort are the Sports Authority Of India Gymnastic Centre, established as a circus training centre; an old Muslim mosque known as Odathil Palli, the Jagannatha Temple dedicated to Siva and Thiruvangadi Sree Rama Swami temple other wise known as the Brass Pagoda.

Arakkal Museum

Arakkal Museum

Arakkal Kettu, a palace of historical significance, was the residence of the former Arakkal Ali Rajas, the only Muslim royal family of Kerala which ruled parts of the coast and Lakshadweep island. The Arakkal family played a prominent role in the history of Malabar. The palace is situated in Ayikkara, near St. Angelo Fort, at a distance of 3 km from Kannur town. This 200-year-old palace complex has been renovated and converted into a heritage museum in the year 2005. It showcases the history of the Arakkal house and of the regional influence of the Arakkal 'Rajas' (male rulers) and 'Beevis' (female rulers) in the heydays of their authority. Exhibits in the durbar hall contains old records, maps and drawings of surveys and many other manuscripts that will throw light on the maritime activities of the family, its monopoly on spices trade and its relationship with European colonial powers. The museum is managed by the Arakkal Family Trust and to visit the museum there is a nominal entry fee.

St. Angelo Fort

St. Angelo Fort

St. Angelo Fort is located 3 km from Kannur on the coast of the Arabian sea. The fort is separated by a strong sea wall from the sea and behind the fort, there is a pathway stretching a kilometer or two into the sea. This laterite fort was constructed in 1505 AD by the first Portuguese Viceroy, Don Francisco De Almeida with the consent of the ruling Kolathiri Raja. After changing hands from the Portuguese to the Dutch, and then to the Ali Raja of Arakkal and finally to the English, the fort became one of the important military centres of the British in Malabar. The barracks, the arsenal, cannons and the ruins of a chapel are all standing testimony of history on the sea shore. St Angelo's fort, more commonly known as 'Kannur Kota' (Kannur Fort), is now under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India. 

St. Angelo Fort has a triangular shape and features adjoining citadels and a moat. It is said that there is a secret underground tunnel 21 km long inside the fort which connects Kannur Fort to the Thalassery Fort. This tunnel was used by the soldiers to escape from the attack of enemies. Facing the Arabian sea, the fort gives an excellent view the Moppila Bay, a natural fishing harbour and the Dharmadam Island sprawling in an area of 5 acres located in the Arabian sea at a distance of 100 meters from the shore. Tourists are permitted to enter the fort every day between 8 am to 6 pm.

Pazhassi Dam

Pazhassi Dam


Pazhassi dam, an ideal retreat for tourists, is located at a distance of 37 km east of Kannur near Mattanur. The Dam and the reservoir are scenic, and there is a garden and an Amusement Park as well. One can cruise down the river in D.T.P.C. boats often crossing small islands inhabited only by birds. The Buddha’s mountain at Pazhassi, sculpture of Pazhassi King are interesting places to visit. Accommodation is available at the Project Inspection Bungalow and its dormitories.

Payambalam Beach

Payambalam Beach

The long secluded beach of Payambalam is situated on the coastal line of Kannur, around 2 km from the town. This local picnic spot is one of the beautiful beaches in the state of Kerala. The beach provides the best environment for a relaxed evening and have the possibility for progress as a tourist resort. There is a well laid out garden and a massive sculpture of mother and child erected by the famous sculptor Kanayi Kunchiraman which adds to the beauty of the beach.

Thottada Beach

Thottada Beach

Thottada Beach, also known as Kottayamkandy beach, is at a distance of about 7 km from Kannur town. The virgin beach is a perfect place for swimming and sun bathing. There is a beach house and guest houses offering accommodation at reasonable price.

Muzhapilangad Beach

Muzhapilangad Beach

Muzhapilangad Beach, one of the longest beaches in Kerala, is located 15 km south from Kannur and 8 km from Thalasseri. The clean and less crowded beach is ideal for sunbathing, and the black rocks protect this beach from the currents, making its shallow water a swimmer's paradise. It is a drive-in beach where you can drive down the entire length of 4 km. This secluded place fringed with palm groves mostly remains unexplored and is a perfect place for relaxing. There is also an unpaved road through the coconut groves, leading to the beach. From Muzhappilangad, one can view the beautiful island of Dharmadam or the Green Island, which is at a distance of 200 meters south of the beach.

Meenkunnu Beach

Meenkunnu Beach

The peaceful, quiet and beautiful Meenkunnu beach is a tourist paradise, situated at Azhikode, 12km from Kannur. It is an extension of the Payyambalam Beach. The golden sands of the beach lined with coconut trees and surf, is a perfect place to spend leisure time.

Kizhunna Ezhara Beach

Kizhunna Ezhara Beach

Located about 11 kms from Kannur, Kizhunna Ezhara Beach with a beautiful stretch of golden sand is one of the most sheltered beaches in Kerala. Surrounded by palm and coconut groves, it is an ideal picnic spot that provides a calm and relaxed environment.

Malayala Kalagramam

Malayala Kalagramam


Malayala Kalagramam, the renowned centre for arts and culture sponsored by the A.P.Kunhiraman Trust Chennai, is situated at New Mahe, about 29 km from Kannur. The center started functioning in 1994 and conducts courses in painting, sculpture, music, dance and pottery. Besides these, seminars, symposia, extension lectures, in-service programmes and special projects in different fields of art and humanities are conducted by the Fraternity centre of the Kalagramam. It also provides Kalari (stage) for children and youngsters to practice and perform all forms of fine arts. Yoga and Sanskrit are also taught here. The views and ideas of celebrities like M.Govindan, M.P.Damodaran, K.A.Kodungalloor, Dr. K.B.Menon and A.N.Nambiar, are the sources of motivation behind the creation of the Kalagramam. Each of these persons has proved their worth in different fields, contributing to humanity. There is also a library here. 

The courses conducted here are :
1. Bharatha Natyam- Daily 9 a.m. to 4 p.m
2. Carnatic Music- Daily 9 a.m. to 4 p.m
3. Painting, Drawing,- 3 days a week.
Sculpturing and Murals
4. Musical Instruments- Friday, Saturday & Sunday
from 3 p.m.
5. Yoga Classes- 8 a.m. on Sundays
Visitors are allowed to watch the classes with prior permission from the Director. The Malayala Kalagramam remains closed on all Thursdays.

Kerala Folklore Academy

Kerala Folklore Academy


Kerala Folklore Academy, an independent center for cultural affairs, was established on 28 June 1995. The main objective of the academy is to promote and protect the traditional art forms of Kerala.The institution works under the authority of Cultural Affairs Department, represented by Government of Kerala. The academy also offers economic aid to financially and physically weak artists.

St.John's Church

St.John's Church




Built in 1869, St.John's Church is one of the most beautiful Anglican churches in India. It is located within the walls of the Thalassery fort, around 22kms from Kannur. In its cemetery rest Sir Edward Brennen and other European officials of the East India Company and the government. 

Holy Rosary Church

Holy Rosary Church

Holy Rosary Church, the most ancient Catholic Church is situated below the Thalassery Fort, 22 kms from Kannur. Also known as St. Rosario church, the Church is architecturally remarkable and has unique stained glass works brought from London.

Valapattanam

Valapattanam

The small town of Valapattanam, also known as Baliapattom, on the banks of the Valapattanam river, is located 7 km away from Kannur. Boat cruise is an exciting experience on the Valapatanam river which originates from the Western Ghats and joins the Arabian Sea, near the town. Valapattanam is a fishing harbour and the main source of irrigation in Kannur. The place is also famous for its wood-based industries and its trade. The transportation of timber in the traditional style i.e. long pieces of timber are tied together to float down the stream, is amazing to watch. Manufacture of Urus and Dhows is the main profession of the natives of Valapattanam. Teak, Iruli, Elavu, Karimurukku, sandalwood etc. are found in plenty in the forests of this district. The timber industry of Valapattanam succeeds because of this rich forest resources.Tea, coffee, rubber, tobacco, cashew nuts etc are the cash crops grown here. This is only place in Kerala where the cultivation of Pukayila (tobacco) is carried on successfully. The Azhikkal port and Azhikkal Beach are located very near Valapattanam. Western India Plywoods Limited, the largest wood-based industry in the country and also one of the largest of its kind in South East Asia, is the major industrial concern here.

Gymnastic Center

Gymnastic Center


Thalassery is famous for having given birth to many famous circus artists. The first circus training center set up under the Sports Authority of India, known as the Gymnastic Center is functioning in Thalassery. Experts from India and abroad are working in this center.

Madayi Para

Madayi Para

Historically and religiously significant Madayi Para, is a small hill located near Pazhayangadi, around 25 km from Kannur. The major attractions here are the Madayi Kavu Temple, the Vadakunnu Shiva Temple and the 12th century mosque (1124 A.D) with white marble imported from Arabia, built by a Muslim preacher, Malik Ibn Dinar, who came from Mecca to India. There is a pond here in the shape of a hand held mirror, which is supposed to have connection with the ancient Jewish settlers. The remains of the dilapidated Pazhi Kotta (fort) supposed to have been built by Tipu Sultan of Mysore, can be seen on the southern side of the hill. The view from the fort is fascinating. Remnants from the past can be found in and around Madayipara. Madayipara was the administrative center of the Ezhimala kings and was used as the place for the coronation ceremony of the rulers of the princely state of the erstwhile Kolathunadu, between AD14 and AD18.

Anjarakandy

Anjarakandy


Anjarakandy, a village well-known for its Cinnamon estate, lies 19kms south east of Kannur. The 1000 acre estate, set up by the British in 1797 comprises of coffee, pepper and sandal wood plants. The estate was destroyed during the fight between Pazhassiraja and the British in the year 1803 and was later revived.