Malappuram

Area: 3550 Sq. Km. Population: 3,096,000  Altitude: Lowlands: Sea level 
Highlands: 477-2340 m above Sea Level

Malappuram (literally, a land atop hills) is situated 50 Km southeast of Kozhikode. Bounded by the Nilgiri hills in the east, the Arabian sea in the west and Thrissur and Palakkad districts in the south. Malappuram is enriched by three great rivers flowing through it - the Chaliyar, the Kadalundi and the Bharathapuzha. 

Malappuram has a rich and eventful history. It was the military Zamorins of Kozhikode since ancient times. This district was the venue for many of the Mappila revolts (uprisings against the British East India Company in Kerala). It was a famous centre for Hindu-Vedic learning and Islamic philosophy.

The temples and mosque of this district are well known for their festivals. Alone with historic monuments and diverse natural attractions, a range of cultural and ritual art forms add to its value as a destination worth visiting.

Thirunavaya: Situated on the banks of the Bharathapuzha, this is a place of great historical importance. The Bharathapuzha, this is a place of great historical importance. The Mamangam, a grand assembly of the rulers of Kerala was held here once every 12 years in olden times. This extravagant festival was held for the last time in 1755. Today Thirunavaya temple is also a famous pilgrim centre.

Kottakkal: This small town is home to the famous Kottakkal Arya Vaidyasala, one of the pioneer institution of Ayurveda, the traditional system of health and medicine, in Kerala, founded in 1902 by Vaidyaratnam P.S. Warrier, Kottakkal Arya Vaidyasala has branches all over the state as well as in Delhi and Madras. One of the best Ayurvedic centres in the state, the Arya Vaidyasala runs an Ayurvedic research centre, a nursing home and a hospital. The chief physician can be consulted only by appointment made at least 10 days in advance. Accommodation options at the nursing home include family blocks, double rooms, single rooms and suites.

Tirur: the birth place of Thunchath Ezhuthachan, now called Thunchan Parambu, is in Tirur. It is the hallowed ground where hundreds of Malayalee children are initiated into the wonders of writing when they first trace the letters of the Malayalam alphabets in sand taken from that revered spot which was Ezhuthachan's home.

Nilambur: This is the original home of the Cholainaickans, the oldest aboriginal tribe of Kerala. The extensively forested land is also well known for its bamboo woods and canolly's plot, the world's oldest teak plantation.

Tanur: this coastal town, supposed to be one of the earliest settlements of the Portuguese, has a chapel which was built in 1513. This place was visited by St. Francis Xavier in 1546. The Trikkayikkad Temple here contains exquisite mural paintings. Tanur is also an important marine fishing centre.

Thali Temple, Perinthalmanna: The temple, is located about 3 Km west of Angadipuram, is dedicated to Goddess Durga, this is an important pilgrim centre in Malappuram. The annual Pooram festival celebrated in March/April attracts large gatherings of devotees.

The Jama-at Mosque is an important pilgrim centre of the Muslims of Kerala. The four day annual festival at the mosque (nercha) is celebrated in April. Adjoining the mosque is the mausoleum of the Malappuram Shaheeds  (martyrs) whose brave exploits have been immortalised in the Mappila ballads.

Pazhayangadi Mosque Kondotti: The three day long Valia Nercha feast at this 500 years old Muslim pilgrim centre, celebrated in February/March, is more of a local cultural event with people from all communities participating.

How To Get There: The nearest airport is at Karippur (near Kozhikode), 36 Km from here. Tirur is the nearest railway station and the main railway station is at Kozhikode. Malappuram is connected by good motorable roads with various cities and towns in the state.