Things To Do
in Calicut
Calicut, officially Kozhikode, sits on Kerala's Malabar coast with a rich spice-trading heritage and a vibrant waterfront. The city blends historic landmarks with growing modern amenities, framed by coconut groves and the Arabian Sea. Its cuisine, markets, and coastline offer a sensory journey through Malabar culture and maritime traditions.
Calicut serves as a gateway to northern Kerala’s backwaters and hill country, inviting curious travelers to slow down and savor the moment.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Kuttichira area, where you can admire the intricate architecture of the old mosques and temples. Stroll through the narrow lanes lined with heritage buildings while soaking in the rich history of the region. Don’t forget to stop by the Pazhassiraja Museum to learn about the local art and culture.
In the afternoon, head to the Calicut Beach to enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore and watch local fishermen at work. Treat yourself to a delicious seafood lunch at one of the nearby shacks, savoring the flavors of freshly caught fish. After lunch, explore the bustling local markets, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and handicrafts.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot on the beach to witness the breathtaking sunset over the Arabian Sea. Enjoy a traditional Malabar dinner at a local restaurant, relishing dishes like biryani and Malabar parotta. End your evening with a stroll along the beachfront, feeling the gentle sea breeze and listening to the sounds of waves.
Kick off your day with an energizing breakfast at your hotel before heading to the picturesque Kozhikode Beach. Once you arrive, immerse yourself in the early morning tranquility by taking a long walk on the sandy shore. You might even catch sight of fishermen preparing their nets for the day’s catch.
After a morning of relaxation, gear up for some exciting water sports such as kayaking and jet skiing. Spend your afternoon splashing around in the waves and enjoying the thrill of adventure on the water. Afterward, refuel with a hearty lunch at one of the beachside eateries, sampling local delicacies like fish curry.
As the day winds down, indulge in some beachside activities like beach volleyball or simply relax on the sand. Grab a coconut water from a local vendor to refresh yourself as you watch the sun dip below the horizon. End the evening with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and enjoying the company of fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨One-night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (short city trip) | $3-6 |
| 🥤Soft drink (0.33L) | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich spice trading heritage and coastal cuisine
- Friendly locals and affordable travel costs
- Pleasant coastal weather with beaches and backwaters
- Good base for day trips to Wayanad and the Western Ghats
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options compared to bigger cities
- Traffic and heat can be intense in peak season
- Smaller scale compared to major Indian metros
- Occasional service delays in busy markets and restaurants
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Sugamano?" - How are you?
- "Ente peru [name] aanu." - My name is [name].
- "Ithu ethra?" - How much is this?
- "Nanni" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Calicut
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic coastline where Vasco da Gama landed; long golden sands and dramatic rock formations at sunrise or sunset.
Vibrant waterfront with a lighthouse and piers, ideal for sunset silhouettes and street photography.
Old harbor with traditional boats and boat-building yards; great for maritime portraits and golden hour shots.
Coastal wetland and creek area offering bird photography opportunities during migratory seasons.
Forest waterfall with lush scenery and cascading streams, perfect for nature photography.
Food in Calicut
Calicut Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mussels cooked in a spicy, tangy gravy—best with rice or chapati.
Must-Try!
Aromatic rice with meat (often chicken or mutton) and a blend of whole spices.
Steamed rice cake (puttu) served with black chickpea curry.
Layered pastry stuffed with spiced meat or vegetables.
Fish wrapped in banana leaf with coconut-based sauce, grilled to a fragrant finish.
Dense, glossy dessert made from tapioca and ghee, iconic of the city.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market for spices, nuts, snacks, and daily goods; great for bargaining and sampling local bites.
Coastal spice market with fresh spices, dried fish, and cashews.
Grilled seafood skewers, fried snacks, and coconut water along the promenades.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local customs by covering shoulders and knees; remove shoes when entering temples and mosques.
A polite greeting with a handshake or Namaskaaram (folded hands) is appreciated.
Maintain calm, avoid loud conversations in quiet zones, and respect religious and cultural practices.
Safety
Tipping in Calicut
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up in restaurants; hotel staff and taxi drivers may expect a small tip.
Cash is widely accepted; cards are common in hotels and larger establishments; mobile wallets and UPI are increasingly used in cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid; temperatures often in the 30s°C (90s°F). Hydrate, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Heavy rains from June to September; bring rain gear, use waterproof footwear, and expect occasional travel delays due to slippery roads.
Pleasant daytime temperatures around mid-20s°C (70s°F) with lower humidity; ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Calicut at Night
Hiking in Calicut
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trek to multiple waterfalls in the Western Ghats foothills, suitable for moderate hikers.
Scenic lake area with short nature trails and viewpoints; can be part of a day trip from Kozhikode.
Airports
How to reach Calicut by plane.
Located in Karipur, about 28-30 km from Kozhikode city; well-connected to major Indian cities and some international destinations.
Approximately 100 km north of Kozhikode; convenient for northern Kerala and parts of Karnataka.
About 210-240 km south; offers extensive domestic and some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant demographic in Kozhikode, Malayalam-speaking with Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities.
Historically significant communities that shape the city’s culture and cuisine.
A mix of domestic travelers and international visitors, especially from the Gulf countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local grounds and informal matches widely played.
Strong local support, with matches and clubs across the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calicut.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian dishes abound; look for puttu, appam, thali options, and dal-based curries; request no meat or fish in broths.