Kozhikode
The busy coastal city of Kozhikode, located to the north of Kerala
and 225 kms from Kochi holds an important postion in the legend and
history of Kerala.
The place is historically famous as the Portuguese led by Vasco
da Gama first landed in India, at Kappad near Kozhikode in 1498
AD. He was the first European to reach India via the sea route,
around the southern cape of Africa. Later the Dutch, French and
British came to its shores.
Thus, began a period of conflict of foreign powers for domination
of trade in Malabar. Kozhikode (Calicut) was the capital of the
powerful Zamorins. This age-old town still maintains its commercial
traditions.
Excursion
Pookot Lake
Pookot Lake, a natural fresh water lake surrounded by evergreen
forests and rolling hills is located 3 kms from south of Vythiri
town.
Pookot Lake, about 13 kms from Kalpetta, is undoubtedly the most
beautiful tourist spot in the whole of Wayanad. The lake nestles
in the lap of mountains surrounding it.
Boating in the Pookot Lake is a memorable experience. Tall trees
and dense forests that line along the pathway around the lake provide
a visual treat. A freshwater acquarium with a large variety of fish
is an added attraction.
Tourists can also avail of boating facilities, to enjoy the serene
waters of the enchanting lake. A children park and a shopping centre
for handicrafts and spices are some of the few attractions of the
region, providing recreational facilities to the visitors.
Ettumanoor Temple
Located 12 kms north of Kottayam town, at Ettumanoor is an ancient
Shiva temple, which was built in the 16th century.
The temple, a specimen of the indigenous Kerala style of architecture,
attracts many Hindu devotees from all over the state.The copper
plated conical roof of the central shrine, is in itself a majestic
structure.
The shrine is inlaid with beautiful carvings of scenes from the
Ramayana, Bhagavatha and Krishna Leela. The temple is also endowed
with an exquisite collection of Mural paintings and sculptures,
depicting scenes from the Hindu mythology.
The Mural Art Centre, near the temple is preserved by the Archaeological
Department of the state. The ten-day annual festival, 'Ezharaponnaana
Ezhunallathu' falls in February/ March. The last day 'Arathi' falls
on the day of Thiruvathira.
Krishna Menon Museum
The Krishna Menon Museum houses a good collection of Paintings by
Raja Raja Varma and Raja Ravi Varma. A section is devoted to the
Memorabilia of the late V.K. Krishna Menon, former Indian Defence
Minister and national leader.
The section in honour of the great Indian leader V.K Krishna Menon
has on display the collection of personal belongings and souvenirs
gifted by this world leader.
Tusharagiri
Snuggled cosily in the Western Ghats, are the gurgling waterfalls
of Thusharagiri. Meaning the snow capped mountains; Thushargiri
exhibits a unique kinship between the land and water.
The three waterfalls on the backdrop of the Western Ghats provide
an exhilarating and spellbinding sight to the visitor.
The best roar of the waterfalls can be enjoyed from September to
November. The waterfall with its gentle spray is sure to soothe
every eye. The cascading waters of the waterfall slides past with
surfy smiles.
Two streams originating from the Western Ghats meet here to form
the Chalippuzha River. The river diverges into three waterfalls
creating a snowy spray, which gives the name, 'Thusharagiri'.
Of the three, the highest waterfall is the Thenpara that falls
from an altitude of 75 metres. Situated at Kodencherry in Kozhikode
district, the plantation destination that abounds in rubber, arecanut,
pepper, ginger and spices is also a trekker's delight.
Trekker's start early morning from the second waterfalls at the
hills and climb up through the pristine dense evergreen forests
teeming with exotic birds and animals to reach Vythiri and Waynad
district by evening. There is a dam located around 45 km from Calicut.
The place offers challenging trekking and rock-climbing through
river path and numerous waterfalls. There is another dam at 60 km
from Calicut. It is a place of beauty, calm, and serenity. The place
has a crocodile farm run by the state forest department.
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Getting There
By Air
Kozhikode (Calicut) has an airport at Karipur.
By Rail
Kozhikode is served by a handful of costal expresses and several
passenger trains.
By Road
A well-built network of roads connects Kozhikode (Calicut) to the
other parts of the state.
Local Transport
Auto Rickshaws, Deluxe Buses.
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General Information & Accomdation info on Kozhikode city of Kerala - India
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