Kannur
Kannur: The Land of Looms, Lores, and Legacy
Kannur, also known by its Anglicized name Cannanore, is one of the cultural powerhouses of Kerala. Located on the Malabar coast, this historic city serves as the administrative headquarters of Kannur district and holds a vibrant tapestry of traditions, colonial legacies, and natural beauty. Famed for its handloom industries and ritualistic artforms like Theyyam, Kannur is often referred to as the "Land of Looms and Lores".
Kannur is Kerala's fourth-largest urban agglomeration and is strategically important due to its military presence. The city hosts the Defence Security Corps headquarters and the prestigious Indian Naval Academy at Ezhimala, Asia’s largest naval training institute. The mix of pristine beaches, historical forts, vibrant festivals, and colonial architecture makes Kannur an essential destination for travelers exploring North Kerala.
Major Tourist Attractions in Kannur
1. St. Angelo Fort (Kannur Fort)
Built in 1505 by the first Portuguese Viceroy, Dom Francisco de Almeida, this majestic seafront fort stands as a symbol of Kannur’s colonial past. Over centuries, it was successively occupied by the Dutch, Arakkal royal family, and later the British. The fort’s unique triangular bastions—Hollandia, Zeelandia, and Frieslandia—are Dutch additions that survive to this day. Surrounded by deep moats and overlooking the Arabian Sea, St. Angelo Fort is well preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India. Inside, one can still see cannons, secret tunnels, and remnants of its military past.
2. Thalassery Fort
Situated about 22 km south of Kannur, the Thalassery Fort was built by the British East India Company in 1708. Strategically located on a hilltop, it once functioned as a vital military center during British rule. Constructed using laterite stones, the fort features large bastions, hidden tunnels leading to the sea, and intricately carved doors. Nearby stands the historic St. John’s Anglican Church and a colonial-era cemetery where many British officials, including Sir Edward Brennan, are buried. Thalassery Fort also witnessed confrontations during Hyder Ali’s campaigns, making it a site of both architectural and historical significance.
3. Arakkal Museum
Housed in a section of the Arakkalkettu Palace, this museum is dedicated to the only Muslim royal family of Kerala—the Arakkal dynasty. The Arakkal Rajas and Beevis once ruled over parts of North Malabar and even the Lakshadweep Islands. The museum displays royal artifacts, ancient documents, weapons, and household items reflecting the unique matrilineal tradition and Islamic heritage of the family. Though managed by the Arakkal Family Trust, it is open to the public and offers a glimpse into an oft-overlooked chapter of Kerala’s royal history.
4. Payyambalam Beach
Located just 2 km from Kannur town, Payyambalam Beach is a golden stretch of sand perfect for relaxation. Its clean surroundings and landscaped gardens attract families and casual tourists alike. The beach is known for the striking sculpture of a mother and child by renowned artist Kanayi Kunhiraman. It is also a memorial ground for some of Kerala’s most prominent political leaders, including Swadeshabhimani Ramakrishna Pillai and A.K. Gopalan. Ideal for evening strolls and sunsets, this beach is one of Kannur’s most loved picnic spots.
5. Madayipara
Perched like a natural fortress in Pazhayangadi, Madayipara is a flat hillock renowned for its ecological richness and historic relevance. Once the coronation site of the Kolathiri Kings, this site contains ruins of an old fort, ancient watchtowers, and a mirror-shaped sacred pond believed to be connected to Jewish settlers. The Vadukunda Shiva Temple and its ever-filled temple tank are part of its sacred geography. During spring, the entire landscape blooms with a vibrant carpet of wildflowers, turning Madayipara into a haven for botanists, birdwatchers, and photographers.
6. Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach
Located between Kannur and Thalassery, Muzhappilangad Beach is Kerala’s only drive-in beach and one of the longest in Asia, stretching over 4 km. Tourists can enjoy the unique experience of driving vehicles along the firm sand while enjoying the sea breeze. This scenic beach is ideal for swimming, paragliding, and beach games. Lined with casuarina trees and dotted with food stalls, Muzhappilangad is a favorite for adventure lovers and families alike.
7. Dharmadam Island
Near Muzhappilangad Beach lies the small, scenic Dharmadam Island, also known as Green Island. Accessible only during low tide, this uninhabited islet is covered with coconut palms and dense vegetation. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding sea and is an ideal spot for photography, solitude, or a romantic walk.
8. Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple
Situated on the banks of the Valapattanam River, Sree Muthappan Temple is unlike any other in Kerala. The temple worships Muthappan, a deity embodying elements of both Shiva and Vishnu, through ritual Theyyam performances offered as daily worship. The temple is open to all, regardless of caste or religion, and is renowned for its unique customs. Free meals are provided to devotees throughout the day. A nearby deer park and snake park also attract families and animal lovers.
9. Ezhimala Hills and Indian Naval Academy
About 38 km north of Kannur, Ezhimala is a place of ancient and contemporary significance. These hills once formed part of an ancient Buddhist center and are associated with legends of Sage Parashurama. Today, they host the Indian Naval Academy, the largest in Asia. Although the Naval campus is restricted, the hills and nearby Ezhimala Beach offer great views and spiritual tranquility.
10. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the eastern part of Kannur district, Aralam Sanctuary is a lush green reserve on the slopes of the Western Ghats. Spread over 55 sq. km, it is home to elephants, wild boar, deer, leopards, and a variety of birds and butterflies. Trekking trails and guided forest walks make Aralam a must-visit for eco-tourists and wildlife enthusiasts.
