Things To Do
in Calicut
Calicut, also known as Kozhikode, is a vibrant city located on the southwestern coast of India in the state of Kerala. It is famous for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning beaches along the Arabian Sea. The city was once a significant trading port in the spice trade and has a unique blend of diverse communities and traditions.
Visitors can enjoy its lush landscapes, delicious cuisine, and historical landmarks, making it a captivating destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Kozhikode Beach, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning walk along the shoreline and watch the fishermen at work.
Head to the local market at SM Street (Sweet Meat Street) to explore the vibrant stalls selling spices, textiles, and traditional handicrafts. Don't forget to try some local snacks.
Conclude your day with a sunset view at the Kappad Beach, where Vasco da Gama first landed in India, followed by a seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant.
Visit the Pazhassi Raja Museum to delve into the local history and admire the artifacts from the region's rich past.
Explore the Mananchira Square, a beautifully landscaped park in the heart of the city, and enjoy a leisurely stroll or a boat ride on the Mananchira Lake.
Experience the local cultural scene by attending a traditional performance or dance show at a nearby cultural center.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $3 |
| 🍕Pizza at a mid-range restaurant | $8 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.30 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
- Beautiful beaches and natural landscapes.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours.
- Humidity can be uncomfortable in summer.
- "Namaskaram" - Hello
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Enik oru kothi venam" - I want a room
- "Kaaranavum entha?" - What is the reason?
- "Sukhamano?" - Are you fine?
Places to Visit in Calicut
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque location perfect for sunset photography and capturing the local fishing culture.
Famous for its historical significance, this beach offers stunning views and opportunities to photograph the coastline.
The scenic park with manicured lawns and a lake provides a beautiful backdrop for outdoor photography.
Food in Calicut
Calicut Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish made with marinated meat, spices, and saffron, known for its rich flavors.
Must-Try!
A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, featuring a variety of dishes like sambar, avial, and payasam.
A sweet, sticky dessert made from wheat, sugar, and ghee, famous for its unique texture.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market known for its street food stalls offering snacks like banana chips, pazhampori (banana fritters), and various local sweets.
Street vendors along the beach serve fresh seafood, including grilled fish and prawn fry, perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet elders first and show them respect; it's a significant cultural norm.
While Calicut is relatively liberal, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially when visiting temples.
Always remove your shoes when entering homes, temples, or certain places of worship.
Safety
Tipping in Calicut
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants, usually around 10-15% of the bill, especially if service was good.
While cash is widely accepted, many places also accept digital payments; it's advisable to carry some cash for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The weather is cool and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect hot and humid conditions; early mornings or late evenings are best for outdoor exploration.
Heavy rains can occur; it's advisable to carry an umbrella and enjoy the lush greenery while staying indoors during downpours.
The weather becomes more comfortable, making it a great time to visit with reduced humidity and vibrant landscapes.
Calicut at Night
Hiking in Calicut
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 90 km from Calicut, Wayanad offers lush green hills and trekking trails like the Edakkal Caves and Chembra Peak.
Approximately 70 km from Calicut, this hill features scenic trekking routes and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Airports
How to reach Calicut by plane.
Situated approximately 28 km from the city center, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, connecting Calicut with major cities in India and abroad.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant demographic group in Calicut, known for their rich traditions and contributions to the local culture.
Another major community, with diverse customs and festivals that contribute to the city's cultural fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular in Calicut, with local matches often held, and residents passionately following national teams.
Football has a strong following in Calicut, with local clubs competing in various leagues and many residents actively playing the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calicut.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for hidden ingredients like ghee.
Dishes can be spicy; it's best to ask for milder options if you have a low tolerance for heat.