Located on the coast Kozhikode exists as a precious historical and culturally rich destination which embraces natural beauty in its surroundings. Whether itās strolling along serene beaches, exploring centuries-old landmarks, or indulging in mouthwatering Malabar cuisine, there are countless things to do in Kozhikode that make every visit special. A visit to this place provides a unique experience because of its animated streets combined with spectacular views and deep cultural heritage. In your Kerala trip, Kozhikode stands out as a must-visit destination, offering a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Prepare to experience the magic that awaits you in this lively city.
Top 15 Things to Do in Kozhikode
Located in Kerala's coastal region Kozhikode (also known as Calicut) showcases its historic legacy alongside cultural diversity along with natural aesthetic wonders. The city shows its distinctive character through both its peaceful beaches and active markets to offer visitors diverse travel attractions. Here are 15 things to do in Kozhikode that will make your trip unforgettable.
1. Relax at Kozhikode Beach
The city's most well-known destination Kozhikode Beach features a golden shoreline and peaceful views towards the Arabian Sea. Kozhikode Beach serves as an ideal destination to relax with sunset views and shoreline promenades. A lighthouse together with an old pier enhances the beach's unique appeal. Food lovers will find stalls selling traditional dishes such as Bhel Puri alongside Pani Puri in the area. During golden sunrise and sunset moments, photographers frequently choose Kozhikode Beach as their preferred location. The beach serves as a gathering place for families who use it as a picnic destination while the pleasant ocean breeze creates a peaceful retreat from urban activity. Among the many things to do in Kozhikode, starting your journey at the beach is highly recommended.
Timing: Open all day, best visited during sunrise or sunset.
Location: Near the city centre, easily accessible by auto-rickshaws or taxis.
Entry Fee: Free.
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Kerala: A Paradise Of Unique Places
2. Explore Mananchira Square
Mananchira Square preserves its beauty as a park which stands at the centre of Kozhikode with historical structures and a peaceful natural pond surrounding it. This place is an excellent location for serene walking paths and offers pleasant surroundings to appreciate the green landscape. The square features a musical fountain as one of its attractive elements. The park utilizes the traditional Mananchira Pond for its foundation since experts believe this was previously used by Zamorin rulers for bathing purposes. Local artists regularly perform and Kozhikode hosts its cultural events within this cultural center. When exploring things to do in Kozhikode, visiting Mananchira Square should be high on your list.
Timing: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Location: Mananchira, Kozhikode.
Entry Fee: Free.
3. Visit the Pazhassi Raja Museum
Anyone interested in history should put the Pazhassi Raja Museum at the top of their list. The cultural heritage of Kerala appears through a compelling collection of ancient artefacts alongside coins and murals in this establishment. The museum bears the name of Pazhassi Raja Kerala Varma who fought for independence thus leading the institution to acquire its title. Traditional weapons and pottery together with sculptures explain Keralaās past through the museum displays. The museum exhibits information about the Zamorin dynasty making it a perfect site to discover local royal heritage. The art gallery next to the museum presents artwork by celebrated Kerala artists to enhance the cultural expedition.
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays).
Location: East Hill, Kozhikode.
Entry Fee: ā¹20 for adults, ā¹10 for children
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Summer In Kerala: Kerala's Summer Escapes
4. Shop at Mittai Theruvu (Sweet Meat Street)
Mittai Theruvu which translates to Sweet Meat Street has established itself as a thriving marketplace where people purchase tasty sweets alongside snacks and authentic local foods. Food enthusiasts will find this place heavenly while also being able to purchase classic Kerala treats which include banana chips and halwa. Shoppers find the street invigorating because the area buzzes with live vendor activity combined with the enticing smells of current sweet production. You must try the signature Kozhikode halwa because it exists in multiple flavors including banana as well as coconut and mango options. Various shops on the street combine textile sales with spice trading and souvenir merchants to make shopping convenient in a single location. For food lovers seeking unique things to do in Kozhikode, a visit to Mittai Theruvu is essential.
Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Location: Near S.M. Street, Kozhikode.
Entry Fee: Free.
5. Discover Kappad Beach
Kappad Beach maintains historical importance because Vasco da Gama initially landed in India at this site in 1498. The seafront at Kappad Beach attracts fewer visitors than Kozhikode Beach while presenting visitors with a quiet getaway through its stones and transparent sea water. Tourists converge on this site to see the stone monument that Vasco da Gama used during his landing in India. The beach area enables swimming and sunbathing activities while the nearby coconut tree forests create a beautiful natural scene. The local fishermen operating on the beach enhance their local appeal by bringing their daily fresh catches.
Timing: Open all day.
Location: Kappad, 16 km from Kozhikode city.
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Kerala Backpacking Trip
6. Admire the Tali Temple
Religious and cultural things to do in Kozhikode include visiting the magnificent Tali Temple. Lord Shiva received worship at this temple which exhibits marvellous frameworks and peaceful surroundings. The religious heritage of Kerala is fully accessible at this location. At Tali Temple visitors can enjoy Tali Pooram as their annual festival where magnificent processions combine with traditional music performances and spectacular fireworks displays. Visitors can experience a complete spiritual journey through the temple grounds because it includes various smaller shrines honouring different deities. People seek meditation and reflection at this temple because its peaceful atmosphere creates an ideal environment.
Timing: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Location: Near Mananchira Square, Kozhikode.
Entry Fee: Free.
7. Take a Boat Ride at Beypore Beach
The shipbuilding yard within Beypore Beach remains operational because traditional makers of Uru boats continue their shipbuilding tradition. A boat journey on the Chaliyar River provides visitors with views or people can just appreciate the coastal scenery at Beypore Beach. People can find skilled craftsmen constructing huge wooden vessels at the shipbuilding yard. Birdwatching is an excellent activity at this beach because it draws diverse migratory species to the area. Travelers must allocate time to visit the Beypore Lighthouse since it provides outstanding views across the coastal region.
Timing: Open all day.
Location: Beypore, 10 km from Kozhikode city.
Entry Fee: Free (Boat rides may have separate charges)
Suggested Read: 7 Reasons Why Kerala Is One of India's Favourite Honeymoon Destinations
8. Visit the Kozhikode Planetarium
Science enthusiasts together with families find the Kozhikode Planetarium an excellent destination. Educational programs at this facility deliver knowledge about astronomy and universal phenomena to create a learning experience with entertainment value. Head to the dome-shaped theatre at the planetarium to experience shows that reveal journeys among stars and planets. The facility presents both satellite and rocket models and interactive exhibits which make complicated science components easy to understand. The planetarium operates workshops and presents lectures which establish it as the primary science education center within the area.
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Shows at specific timings).
Location: Jaffer Khan Colony, Kozhikode.
Entry Fee: ā¹50 for adults, ā¹30 for children.
9. Explore the Kallai River
The Kallai River stands as a central waterway of Kerala which has earned its reputation through its timber dealings. Travellers can enjoy tranquil riverbank walks or can take boat rides to experience the lavish natural sceneries. The timber yards located along the river banks present visitors with an opportunity to watch the export preparations of logs. The riverbank presents an excellent place to take pictures because of its lovely scenery and active river environment. Research at the Kallai River serves as a critical foundation for Kozhikode's economy and social record thus making this site a compelling organization for research.
Timing: Open all day.
Location: Near Kozhikode city.
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Best Time To Visit Kerala: The 4 Seasons Guide
10. Visit the Regional Science Centre
The Regional Science Centre provides enjoyable opportunities for educational interaction that welcomes people of all ages. The facility presents various scientific themes through educational displays plus interactive demonstration areas that make learning memorable for visitors. Children specifically find productive educational experiences in the dedicated section of the center where they can engage with interactive displays that fuel their questioning minds. A major attraction of the outdoor science park includes life-size dinosaur displays and other scientific exhibit areas. The facility organizes routine science fairs along with exhibitions which turn the location into a central point for science fans. Educational things to do in Kozhikode include a visit to the Regional Science Centre.
Timing: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays).
Location: Near the planetarium, Kozhikode.
Entry Fee: ā¹30 for adults, ā¹20 for children.
11. Enjoy a Traditional Kerala Meal
Every Kozhikode journey requires tasting authentic Kerala cuisine during your visit. Indulge in a traditional meal at an eatery by experiencing the combination of Puttu and Appam alongside fish curry that is traditionally served on banana leaves. People eat their meals while enjoying sambar along with coconut chutney and various pickles. The unique taste of Kozhikode cuisine stems from the usage of fresh ingredients obtained from local sources. Restaurants throughout the place accommodate people who follow vegetarian and vegan diets with suitable menu choices. Culinary things to do in Kozhikode are incomplete without trying a traditional Kerala meal.
Timing: Varies by restaurant.
Location: Multiple options across the city.
Entry Fee: Depends on the restaurant.
12. Visit the Krishna Menon Museum
The Krishna Menon Museum serves as an institution devoted to honouring V.K. Krishna Menon who was a distinguished Indian diplomat and politician. Guests can explore previous possessions along with images and historical documents belonging to V.K. Krishna Menon in this permanent facility. Viewers can see rarely found images of Menon with leaders from around the world as well as his private letters together with his handwritten manuscripts. The museum houses a research library containing political and historical books alongside being a suitable location for scholarly investigation.
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays).
Location: East Hill, Kozhikode.
Entry Fee: ā¹20 for adults, ā¹10 for children.
13. Take a Walk at the Lionās Park
Lionās Park is situated close to Kozhikode Beach where visitors can find a neatly cared-for park area. Lionās Park functions perfectly as a relaxing strolling destination where people can find peaceful moments in natural surroundings. Children can enjoy playing at the park while adults commonly bring their families here because of its appealing children's play area. Visitors can find relaxation from sightseeing activities in the park because of its beautiful green spaces and tidy lawn areas. Visitors have the opportunity to experience boating at the parkās tiny pond. For families looking for relaxing things to do in Kozhikode, Lion's Park offers the perfect setting.
Timing: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Location: Near Kozhikode Beach.
Entry Fee: ā¹10 per person.
14. Explore the Art Gallery at Pazhassi Raja Museum
The Pazhassi Raja Museum offers art enthusiasts a priceless collection through its art gallery. Visitors can explore a magnificent display of artistic works at this exhibition hall which showcases Kerala's artistic heritage through paintings and sculptures combined with artifacts. The gallery presents works of famous Kerala artists among which Raja Ravi Varma's paintings stand out as noteworthy pieces. Art enthusiasts can find a vibrant art exhibition space at the gallery through its regular display of temporary shows.
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays).
Location: East Hill, Kozhikode.
Entry Fee: ā¹20 for adults, ā¹10 for children.
15. Visit the Mishkal Mosque
As the oldest mosque in Kozhikode, the Mishkal Mosque stands out because of its distinctive architectural design. The mosque shows traditional Kerala craftsmanship since it was built completely from wood. People from different beliefs are welcome at the mosque which provides a serene setting for spiritual thought. The mosque's intricate carvings together with unique wooden pillars exhibit the exceptional skills of those who constructed it.
Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Location: Kuttichira, Kozhikode.
Entry Fee: Free.
Conclusion
Tourists will have an unforgettable journey in Kozhikode which combines historical landmarks with cultural sites and scenic natural attractions. Whether youāre relaxing on its serene beaches, exploring historic landmarks, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, thereās no shortage of things to do in Kozhikode. Each attraction during your trip brings its own distinct appeal through spiritual facilities and adventure boat excursions. Kozhikode displays its appeal while you explore its bustling thoroughfares and picturesque scenery because it acts as a must-see destination in Kerala. Prepare your travel gear to discover the coastal wonders of this captivating destination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Kozhikode:-
1. How can I spend a day in Kozhikode?
Begin your day by observing the sunrise at Kozhikode Beach followed by tours of Mananchira Square and a stop at Pazhassi Raja Museum. Spend the afternoon by trying local speciality food at Mittai Theruvu followed by relaxation at Kappad Beach and Beypore boat cruises. Traditional Kerala meals should become the ending part of your daily activities.
2. What is Kozhikode famous for?
Kozhikode earns its fame through the combination of its busy markets and mouthwatering cuisine as well as its historic locations alongside its lovely beaches. The city gained recognition worldwide because Vasco da Gama made his first arrival in India at this location in 1498.
3. What is famous in Kozhikode to buy?
The shopping hub Mittai Theruvu offers a variety of products including aromatic spices and Kerala handloom fabrics as well as banana chips and Kozhikode's famous halwa dessert. Handmade crafts and antique items are among the shopable goods available in the city.
4. Which food is special in Kozhikode?
The city of Kozhikode exists as a haven for all individuals who love to enjoy their food. The Kozhikode halwa along with Malabar biryani await you alongside traditional locally famous delicacies including Puttu with Kadala curry and appam with stew.
