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SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS
The Human Ath mosque
built in the 16th century is the biggest in town, while Thottungal
Masjid is believed to be the oldest in Kerala, built almost 300 years ago. Among Hindu temples the Thrikkavu Temple and
the NavamukundaTemple in Thirunavaya (near Ponnani) are landmarks. Padinharekara Beach
offers a breathtaking view of the converging of the river Bharathapuzha and
Tirur puzha with the Arabian Sea. OTHER ACTIVITIES
Boating:
Biyyam Kayal waterway has water sports
facilities all year round, while a boat race is conducted here annually, during
Onam celebrations. Dozens of local participants take part in this event as a
tradition during the national festival of Kerala, Onam.
Fairs/Festivals:
The Mookkuthala Bhavathi Temple
is located about 10 km away from Ponnani. The Karthika Mahotsav, celebrated
here in Varischikam (November-December) attracts thousands of devotees. The
Mookuthala stone, a sacred stone, according to myth is believed to be growing
from below the idol. TOURISM INFO:
Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala
Park View, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
- 695 033
Phone: 91-471-2321132
Fax: 91-471-2322279
Tourist
Information toll free No: 1-800-425-4747
Email: info@keralatourism.org , deptour@keralatourism.org
This coastal town and one of the
oldest ports in Kerala is located in the Malappuram District of Kerala state in
India.
Located at the mouth of the river Bharathapuza, this
town serves as an important cog in Kerala's thriving fishing industry. It once
served an important role as a centre of trade for the Portuguese, the British
and Arab merchants.
Ponnani was a hotbed for the
nationalist movements that aided in India's freedom struggle from
British rule. Ponnani has also contributed a great deal to the cultural and
literary heritage of Kerala.
Historically, this town is
significant for its role in the spread of the Islamic religion throughout the
region. Its influence as a centre of Islamic education brought upon it the
title of a 'Mini Mecca' in India.
Malik Ibnu Dinar, the first Islamic missionary who came to Kerala, was believed
to have visited Ponnani. The great ruler Tipu Sultan of Mysore developed the port for its strategic
importance in mid-1700 but was later overthrown by the British.
Ponnani's diverse cultural
heritage is evident in the presence of a large number of mosques for which it
is famous and also for its Hindu temples. This co-existence of two diverse
religions in the same town serves as an example for secular India.
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