Kannur

Area: 2997 Sq. Km. Population: 2,244,819  Altitude: Sea level

With the Western Ghats in the east (the hilly Coorg district of Karnataka State) Kozhikode and Wayanad districts in the south, Lakshasweep sea in the west and Kassarkod in the north, Kannur district is bounded by a wealth of natural beauty. The district itself, which shares much of this natural splendor, has been a key contributor to the cultural, religious, political and industrial heritage of the state. In addition, Kannur also enjoys the credit of having been the cradle of many a colourful folk art and folk music. Kannur is mentioned in Marco Polo's travels as "a great emporia of spice trade." 

Parassini Kadavu Temple & Snake Park: Sri. Muthappan Temple stands on the banks of the Valapattanam River. This pilgrim centre is famous for the Muthappan Theyyam performed every morning and evening. The DTPC provides pleasure boating on the river near the temple. Accommodation is available nearby. The Snake Park is the only one of its kind in the state and perhaps, in the whole of India. There are three snakes pits, fifteen glass cases for snakes and two large glass houses for King Cobras in the park. Snake demonstrations conducted every hour draw large number of visitors.

St. Angelo's Fort: This massive triangular structure, with a ditch and strong flanking bastions was built by the first Portuguese Viceroy in 1505. It later become the major military base of the British in Malabar. the fort is today the main landmark of Kannur.

Madayi: This village near Kannur is famous for its 12th Century mosque and beach. Built by Malik Iban Dinar, the white marble used in the mosque is said to have been brought from Arabia.

Pythal Mala: This enchanting hill station situated 4,500 ft. above sea level near the Kerala - Karnataka border, is rich in flora and fauna. It is a six Km trek to the top of the hills.

Dharmadam Island: The small 5 acre island covered with coconut palms and green bushes is a beautiful sight from the beach. Permission is required to enter this privately owned island.

Kizhunna Ezhara Beach : This beautiful stretch of sand is one of the most secluded beaches in Kerala.

Sree Ramaswami Temple, Thiruvangadi: The temple dedicated to Sree Rama is one of the most prominent temples in Malabar. The exquisite carvings in the temple are said to have been done nearly 400 years ago.

Pazhazzi Dam: An ideal retreat for tourists, the dam site is favours for its scenic beauty. The DTPC provides pleasure boating facilities at the reservoir. Accommodation is available at the Project Inspection Bungalow and its dormitories.

Kottiyoor: There is a famous Siva Temple here, on the banks of the Bavail river. Lakhs of devotees attend the annual 27 day long festival during May - June.

Gundert Bungalow, Near Thalasseri : Dr. Herman Gundert, the revered German priest and research scholar lived in the bungalow for 20 years from 1839. It was here that one of the first Malayalam Dictionaries and the first Malayalam News Paper - Paschimodayam - took shape.

Valapattanam (Ballapattam): The small town on the Valapattanam river is well known for its wood-based industries and timber trade. the port of Azhikkal and Azhikkal beach are located nearby. Western India Plywood Limited, the largest wood-based industry in the country and also one of the biggest of its kind in South East Asia, is a major industrial concern here.

Ezhimala: The beautiful beach here has a hillock nearby (286 M high). A Naval Academy is being developed here.