What is Kannur best known for?
Kannur, formerly called Cannanore, is a city in the North Malabar area of Kerala. The city is also well known as the City of Looms and Lores due to its flourishing handloom industry. There are numerous temples in Kannur, each contributing to the history of the land. On the list of must-visit temples are the Rajarajeshwara Temple, Sree Mridanga Saileswari Temple, Shree Raghavapuram Temple, and more.
Speckled along Kannur are its many beaches. Kannur beach, comprising five beaches is a wonderful sight to see. Kannur also houses a one-of-a-kind drive-in beach, Muzhappilangad Beach, the largest of its kind in Asia. There are also various ancient forts and lighthouses leftover from the days of Portuguese that one can partake in.
Best known places in Kannur
- Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach: The Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach is located between Thalassery and Kannur and is unique. This is the largest drive-in beach in all of Asia. It is a popular tourist attraction that also organises regular festivals along its 4 km long beach.
- Rajarajeshwara Temple: One of 108 ancient temples in Kerala, is Rajarajeshwara Temple. It was completed around 1010 AD to honour Lord Shiva. The temple has multiple legends surrounding its origins making it a worthy visit.
- Palakkayam Thattu: Another well-liked tourist attraction is the Palakkayam Thattu. The hill station is located on the Western Ghats at a height of 3,500 ft. There are routine buses ferrying people to Palakkayam Thattu daily.
- Payyambalam Beach: Payyambalam Beach along with 4 other neighbouring beaches together make up Kannur Beach. It is one of the foremost unspoiled beaches in Kerala. The golden sands and frothy waters attract visitors from all across the globe.
- Fort St. Angelos: For history enthusiasts, at a distance of 3 km from Kannur, is St. Angelos fort. It was constructed by the first Portuguese Viceroy in India, Don Francesco de Almeida. It served as a garrison and has been preserved well to this day.
Airport in Kannur
Kannur International Airport is a public-private consortium that serves the northern region of the State of Kerala.
- Airport address: Kannur International Airport, Mattannur, Kannur – Mattannur Road, Kerala, 670702.
- IATA code: CNN