About Kozhikode
Kozhikode, or Calicut as it is also called, is where the famous traveller and explorer Vasco Da Gama reached and went back to tell everyone about this continent. But the more fascinating part of Kozhikode's history is its contribution to the spice trade for centuries. The city is still the most significant contributor to India's total spice consumption and export. Today, Kozhikode is like any thriving modern city, but you find the stories of those times gone by in different museums around the city. While in Kozhikode, you should also try its unique cuisines like Kozhikode Halwa and Banana chips.
Places to visit in Kozhikode
You shouldn’t miss visiting these places on your next trip to Kozhikode:
- Regional Science Centre and Planetarium Calicut: The Kozhikode or Calicut Planetarium allows you to explore the secrets of the universe, stars, and planets. This 250-seater planetarium organises around 1,200 shows annually. It installed a projection system from Germany to set up the lighting in the room and enchant the visitors. The science centre is situated on the same campus as the planetarium. It offers science exhibitions of mobile and travelling and an HD 3D theatre. Another attraction of this science centre is the etymology section, known as the Giants of Nature. This place has different galleries like the ocean, astronomy, fun science, and mirror maze gallery. Also, there is a children's activity corner, activity hall, life science, auditorium, and a science park.
- Pazhassi Raja Museum and Art Gallery: The Pazhassi Raja Museum and Art Gallery are well-known for preserving the paintings of veteran artist Raja Ravi Verma, who is endorsed internationally. Also, this museum archives mural paintings, ancient coins, models of temples, antique bronze sculptures, pearl sculptures, quadrangular burial chambers, umbrella stones, and other megalithic monuments.
- Tali Temple and Heritage Centre: The Tali Temple is not only significant for religious purposes but also increases the aesthetics of this city. The temple is built with laterite stone and wood and decorated with brass. It is surrounded by a wall shaped like an elephant's belly. The entrance of the temple creates a magnificent charm with its delicate sculptures. Also, there is a flag post platform (Dwajasthambam), a flagstaff platform (Anakottil), pillars for lightening up the traditional lamps (Deepasthambham), and several shrines. The main temple complex consists of several images and sculptures of Hindu Gods. Apart from these, this temple offers to pursue scholarship programs. The seven-day cultural festival of Revathi Pattathanam attracts scholars and philosophers worldwide.
- Chandragiri Fort: The Chandragiri Fort is situated on the southern bank of the River Chandragiri on a 183-metre hill. The fort's entrance is north-facing, while the windows and the balconies are south-facing, and there are extensive grounds for the soldier's parade. The southern side of the fort is secured by the walls and a ditch to prohibit strangers from entering the fort. The lower portion of this fort has two Mahals. These Mahals are constructed with stone and bricks. Apart from these, the fort offers amazing viewpoints of the River Chandragiri and the Arabian Sea.
- Bekal Fort: Established in the 17th century, the Bekal Fort has the unique shape of a keyhole and is a witness to the history of several dynasties. This fort was the military operation base for Tipu Sultan and his son Hyder Ali. Initially, it was built by the Kadampa Dynasty. Now, it has become an attraction for tourists worldwide as well as for local filmmakers. This historic fort offers a nice view of the Arabian Sea from a tall observation tower.
Kozhikode Airport
Calicut International Airport, Kozhikode International Airport, or Karipur Airport is the only international airport serving this city. The IATA code of the airport is CCJ, and its official address is Calicut Airport Road, Karipur 673647. The airport is around 28 km away from the main city of Kozhikode. You will get several transport options from this airport, like bus, train, taxi, and rental cars.