Places To Visit In Kannur Sightseeing

It is one of the rare and best drive-in-beaches of not just India but the world. Located on the south side of Kannur, it is the only drive-in-beach in Kerala and there are no other beaches in the entire state with the distinction. You can enjoy a memorable drive in the beach as a stretch of 14 km is open to driving. Just hop into your car or bike, and enjoy a beautiful journey along one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Apart from the driving experience, you can also view many black rocks at the Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach.

If you visit Kannur and leave behind the historic Fort St. Angelos, then your visit is really incomplete. A gigantic fort located 3 km from Kannur, in triangular shape and built of laterite, Fort St. Angelos is also known as the Kannur Fort and was built by the Portuguese in 1505. The credit of building the fort goes to the first Portuguese Viceroy of India, Dom Francisco De Almeida.

It is one of the rare parks in India that houses only snakes. You will find both poisonous and non-poisonous varieties here and was set up to preserve and conserve different species of snakes, many of which are listed under endangered species. Though called as a snake park, you will also find other reptiles and even birds here. The snakes are kept in glass cases and you will be able to have a close look. You can spot almost all varieties of snakes here, be it python, King Cobra, viper, krait and others.

The Arakkal dynasty was one of the rulers of the region, perhaps the only Muslim rulers ever to have ruled the region. The Arakkal museum, thus, is dedicated to the Arakkal dynasty and is present in the premises of the Arakkal Palace. The Museum, opened to the public in 2005, is housed in the Durbar Hall of the palace. There are many exhibits here that will give you a glimpse into the spice trade and maritime actiivities of the earlier period.

Situated on the western side of the Western Ghats and near the north border of Kerala, the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is spread around 55 sq km and consists of dense forests and has many evergreen and deciduous trees.

Located 3 km away from Kannur, is just the place that you have been waiting for. Here history speaks out loud from every nook and corner of the Palace. This is the palace of the only Muslim royalty of Malabar, the Arackal Rajas. Though place is still under the ownership of the present Ali Beevi (Queen), much of the palace has been thrown open for the public to relish the splendor of the Islamic art and Architecture. Traders by profession, the Arackal Rajas were connoisseurs of art and hence collected all interesting forms of souvenirs from Maldives, Mauritius and Cairo just to decorate their courts.

Located about 7 km from Kannur, it is a small town located on the banks of the river of Valapattanam. This town is famous all over Asia for its wood based industry and timber trade. The port of Azhikkal and the Azhikkkal beach are located very close to this town. The well known Muthappan temple is also located in the bank of the Valapattanam River.

Situated almost 18 km North of Kannur, on the banks of the river Valapattanam, this temple has its claim to fame for the Muthappan Theyyam, performed here every morning and evening. There is also a Kathakali club in the Temple that arranges for shows on special requests after 11 p.m. that lasts for about two and a half hours.

A Buddhist strong hold earlier, this 5 acre island located about 5 km from Thalassery, is a privately owned property and a prior permission is required to enter the island. In times of low tide, one can easily walk to the island, densely populated by coconut palms and thick bushes. Strongly reminding one of an oasis, this little patch of green placed amidst an aquamarine sea is a beautiful sight to look at and appeals immensely to the lovers of nature.

This dam is located at Veliyambra, near Mattannur around 35 km from Kannur. Some of the notable features of this Dam are its pristine and scenic surroundings, pleasure boating and a stay at the Inspection House. Pazhassi Dam is known for its tranquil surroundings and its scenic beauty. The dam has been constructed across the Valapattanam River in Kannur District, Kerala and gets its name because it is close to the birthplace of Pazhassi Raja.

Located at a distance of 2 km from Kannur, this famous beach is acclaimed because of its flat laterite cliffs that jut out into the sea. The Payyambalam Beach is a well maintained establishment in Kannur. This secluded location is known for providing one with the opportunity to simply relax or enjoy a family picnic at a quiet destination. Surfing and swimming options are also available. The gentle waters form a tranquil setting that has been featured in many South Indian movies as well. Being close to Kannur town has made it a favorite haunt for tourists and locals alike.

The Baby Beach is a neighbor to the St. Anjelo’s fort and is called so because of its comparatively smaller size to its neighbor, Payyambalam Beach. It is not exactly a beach, but a place from where you can watch the sea down. It is right along the road with a small area where you can sit around. Baby Beach is located near the Cantonment area. This part of the district is quiet in comparison and with the military feel. Lying just 2 km away from the Payyambalam Beach, this is one beach which is neglected or goes unnoticed by many.