Things To Do
in Cannanore
Cannanore, better known today as Kannur, sits on the northern Kerala coast where Arabian Sea waves meet lush coconut groves. The city and district boast a rich history shaped by spice trade, colonial forts, and a living Theyyam culture. Its coastline is lined with pristine beaches, mangroves, and fishing villages that pulse with daily rhythms.
The region offers a flavorful mix of seafood-driven cuisine, traditional arts, and welcoming locals across a tropical climate year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the St. Angelo Fort, built by the Portuguese in 1505. As you walk along its ramparts, enjoy the panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the lush greenery surrounding the fort. The morning sun sets a perfect backdrop for capturing stunning photographs of this historic site.
After exploring the fort, head to the nearby Cannanore Lighthouse, where you can learn about its history and significance in maritime navigation. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, indulging in traditional Malabar cuisine, which features dishes rich in spices and flavors. Post-lunch, take a stroll along the beach and soak in the serene atmosphere while listening to the gentle waves.
As evening approaches, make your way to the local markets where artisans display their crafts and textiles. Engage with the locals and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs to take home. End your day with a sunset view at the beach, sipping on coconut water and enjoying the tranquil ambiance.
Kick off your day with a breakfast of fresh seafood and traditional dishes at one of the beachside shacks. Afterward, gear up for an exciting morning of water sports at Payyambalam Beach, where you can try activities like jet skiing and parasailing. Feel the thrill as you glide over the waves, experiencing the beauty of the coastline from a unique perspective.
Post-water sports, unwind on the sandy shores, soaking up the sun and enjoying the refreshing sea breeze. For lunch, sample some local delicacies from a beach vendor, perhaps a spicy fish fry or a coconut-based curry. After refueling, take a leisurely walk along the beach, collecting seashells and enjoying the picturesque views.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the vibrant colors of the sky change. Later, head to a beachfront restaurant for a seafood dinner, where you can enjoy the catch of the day while listening to the sounds of the ocean. Conclude your day by participating in a beach bonfire, mingling with fellow travelers and locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-2 |
| 🚗Local transport (one-way) | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $25-50 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich coastal culture and seafood cuisine
- Historic forts and scenic beaches
- Relatively low-cost travel and English commonly understood
- Limited nightlife outside Kannur city
- Monsoon traffic and occasional flooding
- Some rural areas have limited healthcare access
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Sugamano?" - How are you?
- "Ente peru [name] aanu" - My name is [name]
- "Dayaayi" - Please
- "Nanni" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Cannanore
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic stone fort perched by the sea with dramatic walls and expansive coastal views.
A long, sandy stretch where vehicles drive along the shore—great for wide landscape shots at golden hour.
Charming lighthouse with sea vistas; ideal for sunset photography and night-time beacon shots.
Iconic palm-fringed shoreline with a sculpted garden area nearby and soft evening light.
Food in Cannanore
Cannanore Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried pearl spot, usually served with lemon wedges and spicy chutney.
Must-Try!
Fish simmered in coconut milk with tamarind and spices; best with steamed rice.
Fragrant, mildly spiced biryani influenced by Malabar flavors; ideal with raita and fried onions.
A mixed-vegetable curry cooked with coconut and coconut oil, a staple in Kerala feasts.
Steamed rice flour cylinders with black chickpea curry; a simple, comforting combo.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Watch fishermen unload their catch and sample ultra-fresh seafood straight from the boats.
Stalls offering pathiri, kadala curry, parotta, and spicy regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temples, and ask before photographing worshippers.
A respectful Namaste is appreciated; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Cannanore
Ensure a smooth experience
If service charge is not included, a 5–10% tip is appreciated for good service in dining venues.
Cash remains common, but cards and digital wallets (PhonePe, Paytm, Google Pay) are widely accepted in hotels and urban eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May can be hot and humid; plan outdoor activities early in the day and stay hydrated.
June–September brings heavy rains and occasional floods; landscapes are lush but travel can be disrupted; carry rain gear.
October–February offers milder days and cooler evenings; comfortable for sightseeing and photography.
Cannanore at Night
Hiking in Cannanore
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular highland trek offering expansive views of the Western Ghats; best in cooler months.
Short to moderate climb near the coast with sea vistas and viewpoints.
Forest trails in the sanctuary area; look for wildlife and guided treks.
Airports
How to reach Cannanore by plane.
New international airport at Mattanur; serves domestic and some international flights; about a 30–60 minute drive to Kannur city depending on traffic.
Kozhikode Airport; approximately 2–3 hours by road from Kannur; major domestic flights and some international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group; primarily Malayalam-speaking with diverse religious communities.
Active coastal trading communities with rich cultural traditions.
Significant temples and churches contribute to the regional cultural mosaic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and clubs; weekend matches common.
Local leagues and casual play in parks and beaches.
Traditional martial art; cultural showcases and training centers exist in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cannanore.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kerala has abundant vegetarian options such as avial, thoran, sambar, and lentil-based dishes; many restaurants offer thali-style meals and vegetarian curries.