Kannur, A Sunny Gem on the Malabar Coast

Kannur, formerly Cannanore, is located more than 200 kilometers (124 miles) from the port city of Kochi. Before the British Indian Empire established it as a municipality in the 19th century, it was part of the Arakkal Kingdom. As such, the architectural, cultural, and culinary remnants of the city are marked by a blend of traditional and colonial influences. Kannur, though rarely mentioned as a tourist destination, has an undiscovered charm that is often overlooked for its more southern counterparts, and therefore deserves attention.

While there is quite a bit to sightsee in Kannur, some smaller towns and attractions near the town are also worth exploring. 

Forts, Monuments and Museums

Begin your visit to Kannur with a visit to St. Angelo's Fort, an impressive bastion built by India's first Portuguese Viceroy along the Arabian Sea. The fort has changed hands several times throughout history, first being captured by the Dutch in 1663, then passing to the Arakkal monarchy for a short time before being seized by the British and used as the principal military station. From its ramparts, the fort offers spectacular views of the vast coast. There is also a crumbling chapel on the property, as well as the remains of an old lighthouse and army barracks.

Continue your history lesson at the Arakkal Museum, which is located on a scenic stretch of road with swaying palms and the coast in the background. This museum was originally the royal residence of the Arakkal dynasty, and it now houses priceless relics from the family's legacy, such as vintage furniture, copies of the Holy Quran, antique candlesticks, and personal belongings of the royal family.

A Note about Kannur’s Cuisine

Kannur's Malabari cuisine deserves high praise from any foodie. Its cuisine is heavily influenced by a heady blend of culinary cultures, including Yemen and Persia, while remaining true to Malayali roots. It also uses spices grown primarily in northern Kerala, such as cloves and pepper. There are several restaurants and cafes near Kannur that serve some of its most popular specialties such as the fragrant Thalassery biriyani (a spiced preparation of rice and meat prepared in classic Malabari style), parotta (a round-shaped, layered flatbread) and curry, as well as sweets like haluva (a vibrant jelly-like nugget made from rice flour and studded with dry fruits). Kannur is also known for its ubiquitous bakeries that famously sell the mutta puff or egg puff, and roadside thattukadas aka traditional food stalls which serve the traditional sadya or Kerala meal. 

Beaches

Kannur would be nothing without its stunning beaches. The famous Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, Asia's longest drive-in beach, is its crown jewel. Payyambalam Beach, which also houses the Kannur lighthouse, and the palm-fringed Dharmadam Beach are two less popular but equally beautiful beaches in Kannur.

Day Trips from Kannur

Kannur is surrounded by picturesque towns that are ideal for day trips, including Thalassery, Mahé (technically a Pondicherry territory), Dharmadom, and Koyilandy. Discover these towns at your own pace and fall in love with northern Kerala.

Author Name Advaita Raut