KOZHIKODE
Kozhikode also known as Calicut, is the third largest city in the southern state of Kerala. The district with its greeneries, beaches and hills make it a real attractive destination for tourists from far and wide. While taking into consideration the economy and investments of the district, it is said that Kozhikode holds the honor of being the second best city in India to reside. Kozhikode district is bordered by Kannur district on the north, Wayanad on the east and Malappuram on the south.
History of Kozhikode
Kozhikode was once the capital of Zamorins. It was considered as the important centre for trade and commerce and was also once a significant place in Malabar. The place has a perfidious history as it was the main hideout of the westerners. In 1498, it was at Kapad in Kozhikode that Vasco-De-Gama first landed. The history of Calicut can be compressed into a few events such as the establishment of the city, arrival of Portuguese, arrival of Dutch, Mysorean Invasion, the rise of British Power, Indian Independence movement and Indian Independence. Formed on Ist January 1957, Kozhikode has currently one revenue district, three taluks, 78 panchayats and 117 villages.
Economy of Kozhikode
Agriculture plays a significant role in the district’s economy. It is famous for its pepper and spices trade. With its enormous coastal areas, fishing and shrimp farming add to the district’s as well as state’s revenue. Although fishing is the main occupation of the people in coastal areas, allied industries such as ice plant, freezing and processing units also employ a number of people in the district.
Accessibility in Kozhikode
The district of Kozhikode can be accessed through road, rail, air and water. The Karipur International airport which is only 23 kms from the town is the nearest airport. The Kozhikode district is well linked with other districts through rail. Both KSRTC and private buses help people from other districts to reach Kozhikode. The National Highway that stretches to 77kms is an easy link with other districts. The intermediate port at Kozhikode and a minor port at Vadakara and Badagara have been opened for traffic. The Port of Kozhikode Beypore and Badagara are now been opened for foreign trade.
Places of Interest in Kozhikode
Pazhassiraja Museum:
The Pazhassiraja Museum, situated at East Hill, displays ancient mural paintings, antique bronzes and old coins. Many models of temples, megalithic monuments like dolmonoid cysts and the umbrella stones are also displayed here. This is a major attraction to tourist visiting the place.
Thusharagiri Falls:
A very enchanting waterfall which is about 55 km from Kozhikode city is another major attraction of the district. It is a major tourist attraction with four waterfalls in the midst of a forest.
Mananchira square:
Situated in the heart of the city, this historic maidan, adjacent to Manachira has recently made into a beautiful place for leisure and relief. The trees and plants, artificial hill, shrubs, sculpture, an open air theatre and the musical fountain make the square a must visit place.
Beypore:
Beypore town which is about 9.5kms from the town is located at the mouth of Beypore River. It is one of the important ports of Kerala and an important trading centre. It is also famous for its boat building yard where huge country crafts known as Urus are bulit. Tippu Sultan named the town as Sultan Pattanam. Beypore is also known for fishing and is a major fishing harbour in Kerala.
Dolphin’s Point:
The sight of dolphins playing in the sea, which is just 2kms from Kozhikode town centre attracts tourists visiting the district.
Kakkayam:
Kakkayam dam situated 45 kms from Kozhikode offers a challenging trekking and rock climbing experience through river path.
Kallai:
Kallai, known as the world's best timber trading centre was once the largest trading centre in Asia. The place is also known for the river named Kallai River that passes thorough the place.
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