Kannur is known as the paradise crown of Kerala. You would be greeted with a breathtaking aroma and refreshing sites of nature beside historical forts and authentic folk art while you enter the Malabar coast city.
The places where you can enjoy your own themes amid nature and also get an opportunity to learn everything about our rich history of old shrines, museums, and Fort. You can get a taste of the famous spices and everything else that you love in Kerala.
Every place in Kannur talks about the city’s essence that will just leave your jaw dropped. If you are looking forward to visiting Kannur, then you are on the right page, as you can get all the details here about visiting Kannur.
Check out these places that should not be missed in Kannur:
1. Payyambalam Beach
When you visit this beach, you will just feel like the world has just started now. It is a quiet beach that doesn’t have any humans around, so there is no damage or spoilage. The natural beauty shines bright here. The splendid golden sand sparkles like pure pearls when the sun shines bright, and it also blends with white water.
While you are in Kannur, it wouldn’t be surprising if you ended up visiting this beach every evening because you will love the aura out there. Adventure vibes allow you to enter the adventure mode while you are done exploring nature and enjoying the serenity. You can start swimming, skiing parasailing here.
Location: Kannur, Kerala
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: Free
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Travel Experience:
- Scenic Beauty: A pristine beach with golden sands and palm-fringed shores.
- Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and evening walks.
- Local Attractions: Beachside parks and sculptures.
- Travel Tips: Visit during the early morning or evening for a peaceful experience.
2. Saint Angelo Fort
Nestled on the mesmerizing Arabian Sea, the Fort goes beyond just a remarkable historical structure. It is one of the famous World Heritage sites that features amazing stories about battles between the Dutch and the Portuguese, that were looking forward to conquering it. You can enjoy the breathtaking view of the sea whenever you visit the Fort.
You can get the sight of Moplah Bay Dharma Dam Island. When you enter the Fort, you can come across amazing gardens which are well-maintained. The entire environment of the location is pretty relaxing, and it is undoubtedly worth visiting while you are in Kannur.
Location: Near Payyambalam Beach, Kannur, Kerala
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children
Opening Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM
Travel Experience:
- Historical Significance: A well-preserved fort built by the Portuguese in 1505.
- Activities: Exploring the fort, enjoying panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, and photography.
- Local Attractions: Lighthouse, cannons, and old prison cells.
- Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the fort.
3. Muzhappilangad is an amazing drive-in beach
There are several reasons to visit this fantastic drive on the beach. It offers the longest drive in our country. The best part about visiting the beaches is that it is the cleanest beach in Kannur, and it is also known as the best drive beaches in all Asian countries.
So you don’t think twice before getting your vehicle and driving along the scenic coast, which is 4 kilometers wide, and enjoy the fantastic waves and breeze while you drive along. The visiting birds make the scenery nothing less than a dream. Besides going for a drive here, the beaches are also open to some splendid adventures, including paragliding, parasailing, and power boating.
Read also: Best South India Tourist Spots to Visit in October
Location: 15 km from Kannur, Kerala
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Travel Experience:
- Scenic Beauty: India’s longest drive-in beach with a serene and expansive shoreline.
- Activities: Driving along the beach, swimming, bird watching, and enjoying local food stalls.
- Local Attractions: Nearby Dharmadam Island.
- Travel Tips: Drive carefully on the sand, especially during high tide.
4. Arakkal Museum
the museum is dedicated to the royal family of Kerala. The Muslim raja’s Arakkal Ali has splendid gatherings in the museum. Darbar hall of the royal palace features the museum now, and when the royal family used to live here, they used to conduct all the gatherings with the king and his nobles in this darbar.
You can get a quick insight into the life and cultures of the royal family through the furniture, weapons, and art displayed in this museum. This is a must-visit place for you in Kannur even if you do not like history, because the palace is all about elegance and grandeur, which makes it worth the while.
Location: Ayikkara Government Hospital Road, Kannur, Kerala
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM, closed on Mondays
Travel Experience:
- Historical Significance: Showcases the heritage of the Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal family in Kerala.
- Activities: Exploring the museum, learning about the Arakkal dynasty, and viewing historical artifacts.
- Local Attractions: Nearby Kannur city center.
- Travel Tips: Allocate about an hour to explore the museum thoroughly.
5. Kavvayi Islands
If you are looking for the backwaters of Kerala in the list, then your search gets over here as the Kavvayi islands are splendid backwaters of Kerala. The small islands together come and form the most oversized backwater island of Karela, and they are also known as the Kavvyai Kayal, enter spread over at least two districts of Kannur and Kasargod.
You can enjoy a good boat ride on the beautiful cars featuring cool breezes that will lift the spirits. You can experience all the bliss for yourself by just sitting on that boat ride.
Location: Off the coast of Payyanur, Kannur, Kerala
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Travel Experience:
- Scenic Beauty: A cluster of small islands with stunning backwaters and lush greenery.
- Activities: Boating, kayaking, bird watching, and fishing.
- Local Attractions: Scenic views of the backwaters and local villages.
- Travel Tips: Hire a local boat for a guided tour of the islands.
6. Madayipara
When you hear about this place, you have just to imagine plenty of flowers blooming on a vast green canvas which is nothing more than a jaw-dropping site. You can visit the land of flowers and click amazing pictures, which will be Instagram-worthy.
The place is prominent for its picturesque places. It is nestled on a hillock near Pazhayangadi, which is also known as the flower bed. It grabs a lot of attention even from impatient people who just lose themselves in the wild. The best part about the landscape is that it looks different every season.
Location: Pazhayangadi, Kannur, Kerala
Best Time to Visit: August to March
Travel Experience:
- Scenic Beauty: A laterite plateau known for its biodiversity, seasonal flowers, and panoramic views.
- Activities: Nature walks, bird watching, and photography.
- Local Attractions: Madayi Kavu Temple and the Pazhayangadi Mosque.
- Travel Tips: Visit during the monsoon for a lush green landscape and blooming flowers.
7. Kannur Lighthouse
Kannur Lighthouse was the first lighthouse to be established in Kerala. Even though it is just a cylindrical tower featuring a red color, it is a huge deal in this place. The scenery is fantastic, and it is undoubtedly worth visiting and witnessing the beautiful sight with your eyes.
It is nestled on Payyambalam Beach. Even though you would be wondering whether the lighthouse is active or not, then you must know that it is pretty much active, and it is also located next to the sea view park. The best of all is that the lighthouse is surrounded by plenty of hotels so accommodation should not be a problem here.
Location: Burnassery, Kannur, Kerala
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM
Travel Experience:
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding coastline.
- Activities: Climbing the lighthouse for panoramic views, photography, and exploring nearby beach areas.
- Local Attractions: Saint Angelo Fort and Payyambalam Beach.
- Travel Tips: Visit during sunset for breathtaking views.
8. Sundareswara Temple
It is one of the most famous temples of Kannur. This temple is undoubtedly not to miss while you’re looking for tourist places in Kannur. Sree Narayana Guru Devan consecrated this famous temple as he started the spiritual revolution, and he demanded that backward people should also be allowed inside the temple.
At this temple, an annual festival for eight days is carried out, and you should indeed be a part of it. A huge procession is carried out every year, which is worth visiting.
Location: Kannur, Kerala
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: Free
Opening Hours: 5 AM to 12 PM, 5 PM to 8 PM
Travel Experience:
- Religious Significance: A revered temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Activities: Participating in temple rituals, exploring the temple architecture, and attending festivals.
- Local Attractions: Nearby markets and local eateries.
- Travel Tips: Respect local customs and dress modestly.
9. Meenkunnu Beach
This beach is one of the must-see places where in Kannur. Besides being a great fishing spot, the beach gives amazing vibes that make it worth visiting. You can perfectly chill out with your loved ones while you are at this beach.
The beach is known for its sandy frames featuring cliffs, rocks, and recovered areas. You can go swimming on the beach when the tides are minimum. You can get complete contemplation as the beach features solitude vibes.
Location: Azhikode, Kannur, Kerala
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Travel Experience:
- Scenic Beauty: A secluded beach with golden sands and clear waters.
- Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing.
- Local Attractions: Nearby fishing villages and local eateries.
- Travel Tips: Carry your own food and drinks as there are limited facilities.
These are some fantastic places that you should visit while you are in Kannur.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the best tourist places to visit in Kannur?
The best tourist places in Kannur include Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, St. Angelo’s Fort, Arakkal Museum, and Payyambalam Beach.
2. What is Kannur famous for?
Kannur is famous for its beautiful beaches, historical forts, traditional Theyyam performances, and lush green landscapes.
3. Can you recommend places to visit in Kannur for a one-day trip?
For a one-day trip, visit Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, Payyambalam Beach, Kannur Lighthouse, and St. Angelo’s Fort.
4. Are there any family-friendly places to visit in Kannur?
Yes, family-friendly places in Kannur include Payyambalam Beach, Mappila Bay, and the Arakkal Museum.
5. What are some popular places to visit near Kannur?
Popular places near Kannur include Bekal Fort in Kasargod, Valiyaparamba Backwaters, and the Thalassery Fort.
6. What are the best places to visit in Kannur district?
The best places in the Kannur district include Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, Payyambalam Beach, Arakkal Museum, and Parassinikkadavu Snake Park.
7. What is special about Kannur Lighthouse?
Kannur Lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and is a great spot for photography and sunset views.
8. When is the best time to visit Kannur?
The best time to visit Kannur is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
9. What are the hidden gems in Kannur that are worth visiting?
Hidden gems in Kannur include Madayipara, a beautiful hillock with rich biodiversity, and Kavvayi Backwaters for serene boat rides.
10. Are there any cultural or historical sites to visit in Kannur?
Yes, cultural and historical sites in Kannur include St. Angelo’s Fort, Arakkal Museum, and the Sree Sundareswara Temple.
