MALAPPURAM
Malappuram district, situated 50 km southeast of Kozhikode and 90 km northwest of Palakkad, is the only Muslim majority district in South India. The word ‘Malappuram’ means ‘on top of the hills’. Bounded by the Nilgiri Hills in the east, the Arabian Sea in the west and Thrissur and Palakkad districts in the south, Malappuram covers an area of about 3350 sq kms. The district is surrounded by three rivers Chaliyar, Kadalundi and Bharatapuzha. The district is famous for Hindu - Vedic learning and Islamic philosophy.
History Of Malappuram
Formed on 16 June 1969, Malappuram can be found in the pages of history of Indian Independence. It was the site of Malabar Rebellion of 1921 and was also the headquarters of the British troops. The place still possesses the remains of an ancient Fort built by Tipu Sultan. It was also a witness to many national movements like Khilafat Movement. On 1 November 1956, Malabar District merged with Travancore-Cochin to form the state of Kerala and on 1 January 1957 the portions of Ernad and Ponnani taluks merged to form new Tirur taluk. Malappuram now consists of Revenue Divisions, 6 Taluks, 135 Villages, 14 blocks, 5 Muncipalities and 100 panchayats.
Economy of Malappuram
The people of Malappuram depend mainly on agriculture for their living. Timber industry, fishery, tourism and spice trading also contribute much to the economy of the district. The foreign money remitted by the migrants from the middle east is another significant revenue to the district. The small scale industries in the district which are agricultural and textile based also adds revenue to the district. Wood related business is widely common in the district with more than hundred industries dealing with wood. Saw mills, furniture manufactures and timber sales are the most important business in Malappuram district.
Accessibility in Malappuram
Private buses and KSRTC operates around all the centers and rural areas of the district. Ponnani, Malappuram, Perinthalmanna and Nilambur are the four main K.S.R.T.C bus Stations in the district. Mangalore-Madras and Nilambur-Shornur are the two main railway lines that pass through the district. The main access to the district for the people from overseas is the Calicut International Airport at Karipur.
Places of Interest in Malappuram
Kottakunnu:
This is a cantonment hill that gives the glimpse of an old fort built by the Zamorins of Kozhikode. Vettakkorumakan Temple and the Siva temple with the famous murals of Malabar can also be seen from here. Kottakunnu also possess a beautiful helipad.
Biyyam Kayal: 
The lake that lies close to Ponnani is known for watersports such as boat race recently set up by the District Tourism Promotion Council.
Kadalundi Bird Sactuary:
This must visit sanctuary is home to more than hundred varieties of native birds and 60 varieties of migratory birds. Well known for bird watching, the place is surrounded by hillocks and the famous Kadalundipuzha.
Nilambur:
This is the main resting place for tourists visiting Ootty. Well known for its teak plantations, said to be the oldest in the world, Nilambur also has a Teak Museum, which is a main centre of attraction for the tourists.
Kottakkal Ayurvedic Center: 
The most famous Ayurvedic Center set up around 13 kms from Malappuram is often visited by the tourists for ayurvedic treatment. Kottakkal has a large private hospital, drugs producing centre, herbarium and an Ayurvedic Medical College.
Ponnani:
Ponnani is one of taluks in Malappuram with its natural beauty. It is the only port in Malappuram District. This tidal port at the mouth of Bharathapuzha, is also one of the oldest ports in Kerala.
Kodikuthimala:
This famous scenic hilltop near Perinthalmanna, attracts tourists with its panoramic views. Tourists visiting the district make sure to visit the place to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Trikandiyur:
Located close to the town of Tirur, this ancient Shiva temple with an idol installed by Parasurama, attracts devotees from far and wide. This is one of the main pilgrim centers in the district.
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