Kannur (Kannan- Lord Kirshna; ur – place) or the abode
of Lord Krishna is a beautiful coastal town of Malabar
encompassing the northern districts of Kerala. When
Kerala is described as "God's own country" then Kannur
should be described as "God's own Heaven". Far from the
maddening crowd and nestled in unspoiled natural beauty,
it is the one place were you can not only learn
Ayurveda, but enjoy peace and quiet as well.
Kannur is called
"The City of lores and looms". It has an ancient history
and is home to many indigenous art forms; Theyyam: Temple oracles dressed in
fiery, awe-inspiring costumes, gyrating to the sound of
heavy drums and cymbals; Kathakali: Ancient mime dance form depicting stories from
Indian mythology; Thayambaka: A Group
of drummers numbering fifty to hundred or more,
accompanied by trumpets and cymbals performing together
and reaching a
crescendo.
Kalaripayattu:
Ancient martial art form of Kerala. Kannur produces
world famous handloom cotton fabrics.
You can visit these handloom units and buy dress
material furnishings and made-ups. There is the Saint Angelo’s Fort built by the Portuguese in
the 16th century. The famous Muthappan temple
where Muthappan, an incarnation of Lord
Shiva, also known as the “Drinking God”, grants you
favours. There are other well-known sightseeing
locations like the Snake Park, Valapattanam River and
many other lesser-known but wonderful sights to be seen
and experienced. A cruise on a houseboat along the Valapattanam River is an experience
you will cherish for a long time. Local cuisine
like Puttu, Vellayappam, Succulent fish
prepared in earthen pots, Tiger prawns, Lobsters and
Shell fish becon you to tingle your taste buds.
PLACES TO VISIT
IN AND AROUND KANNUR
St. Angelo Fort :
This seafront laterite
fort was constructed in 1505 AD by the first
Portuguese Viceroy, Don Francisco De Almeds.
Valapattanam :
This small town on Ihe
Valapattanam River is well known for its
wood-based industries and timber trade. Azhikkal
port and Azhikkal Beach are located nearby.
Unforgettable, relaxing, house boat cruises are
available here. It is also famous for its
mangroves.
Meenkunnu
Beach :
Un
crowded, this beach is a tourist's paradise, with
golden sand and
surf.
Parassinikadavu :
Sri Muthappan
Temple stands on the banks of the
Valapattanam River. This pilgrim centre is famous
for the Muthappan Theyyam performed every morning
and evening. Pleasure boating on the river is an
exhilarating experience.
The Snake
Park
is the only one of its kind in
Kerala and perhaps the whole of India. There are
three snake pits, fifteen glass cases for snakes
and two large glass houses for King Cobras in the
park. Snake demonstrations are conducted every
hour.
Muzhapilangad Beach and
Dharmadam Island :
Black rocks protect this long, clean beach
from the currents of the deep, making its shallow
waters a swimmer's paradise, Perhaps this is
Kerala's only drive -in beach where you can drive
along the entire length of
4km.
Dharmadam Island
is
located 100 meters away from the beach. The small
5.5 acre island, covered with coconut palms and
dense bushes is a beautiful sight from the beach.
Adventure sports like water scooter riding,
gliding and parasailing are available here.
Thalasseri Fort :
The fort constructed in 1708
was the military center of the British.It is now a
historical monument.
Thodeekulam
Siva Temple :
Located 2km from Kannavam on the Thalasseri
Mananthavady road,this temple is famous for mural
paintings.It is believed to have been constructed
2,000years ago.
Pazhassi Dam :
An ideal
retreat for tourists,the damsite is famous for its
scenic beauty .Pleasure boating is
available.
FESTIVALS
Theyyam
Festival at various temples(December- May)
Kottiyoor temple festival (May-June).
