Kannur: The Cradle of Culture

Kannur is a southern district of Kerala which is often called the cradle of culture and folk dance. Kannur literally means Lord Krishna's Place. It is derived from two words Kannan which means Lord Krishna and Ur which means place. There is even a temple dedicated to Krishna called Katalayi SreeKrishna Temple. With an amazing surrounding the western ghats in the east, the Lakshwadeep sea in the west, Kasargod in the North and Wayand district in the south, the climate of Kannur is very pleasant and warming.]

Kannur has the credit of being one of the most prominent tourist attractions in India with splendour of natural beauty, and contribution to culture, religious movements and folk dance. This place is known for its colourful folk art and music called Theyyam and your visit to his place would be a memorable one for this stylish and mesmerizing dance.

Not to Miss

St. Angelo Fort: This is a Portuguese Fort built by first Portuguese Viceroy to India in 1505. This is a good place for tourists to have a glimpse at the past history of India and Kerala.

Payyambalam Beach: This is a very famous beach of Kannur with a long coastline. The well laid garden near the major beach area and a sculpture of Mother and Child erected by a famous Sculpture called Kunhiraman Kayani is a popular attraction. The captivating sculpture fits perfectly to the beach atmosphere with blue waters, long coastline of golden sands and peaceful surroundings.

Arakkal Museum: This museum is a must visit for tourists. The museum is dedicated to Arakkal Family who were the royal family of Muslims in Kerala. The Museum is actually a part of the Arakkal Palace.

Cannanore Lighthouse: The lighthouse situated near Sea View Park is another tourist attraction in Kannur. This was built by British in 1843 at St. Angelo's Fort. The lighthouse was renovated by Indian Government and moved to the Sea View Park area and it is still used for signalling ships. The Sea View Park which is elevated from sea level is an excellent place to witness the setting sun with furls of colours.

Azhikkal Ferry: This Ferry is situated just ten kilometres from Kannur at Azhikode. This is the place where the Valapattanam River joins the Arabian Sea. If you are to Azhikkal ferry, you can enjoy a panoramic view of sunset and granite pathway to the sea.

Vismaya Amusement Park: A complete family amusement and water theme park in Kannur. The park refreshes you with different sorts of amusements and brings back the energy you lost throughout the journey.

Snake Park at Parassinikadavu: Just 18 kilometers from Kannur will take you to the kingdom of snakes. The park is dedicated to preservation and conservation of snakes specially the extinct species. The park houses almost all types of snakes and provides them their habitat. You can have a lively look at the venomous and non-venomous snakes in this park and demonstrations are conducted for visitors.

Festivals of Kannur

Cherukunnu festival which is held every year in the month of April and it is a week long festival. This is held near the famous Anna Poorneswari Temple.

Another long 27 days festival is held on the banks of the rive Bavali near Shiva Temple during the months of May-June. People from different corners flock down to this festival for enthralling experience of different cultural programs, food and recreation.