Kozhikode (Calicut)

Kozhikode is a famous district in the north part of the state of Kerala in India. Often referred to by its old name of Calicut, this was a vital area in Malabar in the past. The name Kozhikode derives from “Koyil”, which means Palace and “Kota”, which means Fort. Different people know this place by different names, “Kalikooth” in Arab, “Kallikkottai “in Tamil and “Kalifo” in Chinese. The city however is more commonly addressed by its Anglicized version “Calicut”.

Vasco Da Gama found the place in 1948, when his portages navigator discovered the same accidentally. This historical landing of Vasco da Gama with his team of 170 men and 3 sailors is epicted by the construction of a monument that commemorates the arrival.

Kozhikode was the capital of Zamorins and was a famous centre for trade and commerce. Even today it enjoys the same importance as far as trade is concerned. This place is known for being the first sea route discovered to reach India by the outside world.

This surroundings of the place is quite breathtaking with the Arabian Sea in the west and Wayanad hills on east. The serene beaches, historical monuments and lush green environment have made Kozhikode emerge as the popular tourist destination in Southern India. What the place boasts of is beautiful beaches, which are Beypore and Kozhikode. For history lovers, Kozhikode is a home to many historical moments and museums like Krishna Menon, Pazhassirajah. The Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is yet another treat for nature lovers. For religious people, Kozhikode has the Tali Temple and the Jama-at-palli.

Kozhikode is described as the marketing centre for many essential commodities. These majorly include coffee, coconut, pepper, lemon grass, oil and rubber amongst all others. Kozhikode can be easily address as the centre for international and domestic trades. Its contribution in development of the place in every aspect has made it a spectacular centre of development.

Kozhikode links its ample fame to the famous football event that has helped this gain the name of being the Second Mecca to football lovers. The climate at this place is tropical and the best time to visit lies from September to May. Kannur is the district that borders this place in north. With Wayanad in east and Malappuram in South, Kozhikode is border by Arabian Sea on the west.