TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN KANNUR

Kannur, known for its rich cultural heritage, is a captivating destination with many tourist attractions in Kannur. You can enjoy beautiful beaches like Muzhappilangad and Payyambalam, as well as historical sites such as Fort St. Angelo and the Arakkal Museum. These places highlight the area’s beauty and history, making Kannur perfect for adventure seekers and history lovers.

In addition to these scenic spots, Kannur is famous for its temples in Kannur. The Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple, dedicated to the folk deity Muthappan, draws many visitors with its lively rituals and peaceful atmosphere. The Trichambaram Lord Krishna Temple is another highlight, known for its lovely architecture and spiritual importance. Don’t miss the Sri Rajarajeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which offers a calm environment and insight into the local religious culture. Each temple provides a unique experience that adds to your visit to Kannur.

Here are the some of the top tourist attractions and temples in Kannur.

Parassinikadavu Sree Muthappan Temple

Parassinikadavu Sree Muthappan Temple is just 3 km away from Nandhanam Holidays. Sree Muthappan, the God of the poor and hardworking, is known for helping anyone who prays to him. Unlike other gods, he dresses as a hunter, drinks toddy (palm wine), and eats roasted fish. His dogs roam freely in the temple.

What makes Sree Muthappan special is his acceptance of all people, no matter their caste, religion, or background. There are no rules about dress, and anyone can approach the sanctum to pray. Stay at Nandhanam Holidays and experience the spiritual warmth of this unique temple.

Vismaya Water Theme Park

Just 3.9 km from Nandhanam Holidays, Vismaya Water Theme Park is one of the most popular and appealing tourist spots in Kannur for a holiday getaway. This top-tier amusement park offers pure and complete entertainment for kids, adults, and seniors alike. Vismaya ensures joy and excitement while maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment. The amusement park in Kerala has something for everyone, from thrilling water rides to a serene lazy river surrounded by lush greenery. Whether you crave adventure or a tranquil vacation, it’s an engaging experience for all ages. Vismaya, the best amusement park in Kerala, truly has it all.

Snake Park Parassinikadavu

Just 5 km from Nandhanam Holidays, the Parassinkkadavu Snake Park is located in Anthoor Municipality, around 16 kilometers (9.9 miles) from Kannur Corporation in the Kannur district of north Kerala, south India. The park is situated in Parassinikkadavu, just 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from National Highway (NH) 17, on the route from Kannur to Taliparamba.

The park is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of snakes, many of which are endangered. It also hosts live shows where trained staff interact with different snake species, such as cobras and vipers, aiming to debunk myths and superstitions surrounding these reptiles.

Payyambalam Beach

Only 19 km from Nandhanam Holidays, Payyambalam Beach is a pristine and well-maintained destination in Kannur, ideal for a peaceful getaway. Whether you’re looking to unwind or enjoy a family outing in serene surroundings, this beach offers the perfect escape. For those seeking adventure, the beach provides opportunities for surfing and swimming, while its picturesque beauty has served as a backdrop for many South Indian films. Its close proximity to Kannur town makes it a popular choice for both tourists and locals. The nearest railway station is Kannur, just 2 km away, and the nearest airports are Kannur International Airport, around 30 km away, and Calicut International Airport, approximately 93 km to the south.

St. Angelo' s Fort

Just 19 km from Nandhanam Holidays, St. Angelo Fort (also known as Kannur Fort or Kannur Kotta) is a historic fort overlooking the Arabian Sea, located 3 km from Kannur city in Kerala, south India. Established in 1498 during Vasco da Gama’s visit, the local Kolathiri king granted the Portuguese land for a settlement. On 23 October 1505, the king allowed Portuguese leader Francisco de Almeida to build the fort. Situated in the Cannanore Cantonment area, it is well-preserved as a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India and is a popular tourist attraction, with six tourism policemen for security. In 2015, many cannonballs were discovered at the fort, believed to have been buried for military readiness.

Kannur Light House

Just 19 km from Nandhanam Holidays, the Kannur Lighthouse is located near Payyambalam Beach, a short distance from Kannur town in Kerala. This active lighthouse overlooks the Arabian Sea and is situated next to Sea View Park and the Government Guest House. Historically known as Cannanore, the town’s old English name, the lighthouse is still commonly referred to by this name. The Portuguese, led by Vasco Da Gama, first arrived at Kappad Beach in 1498 and later built St. Angelo Fort in the early 16th century. In the 19th century, the British established a cantonment in Cannanore, adding to the area’s rich history.

Muzhapilangad Beach

Muzhappilangad Beach in Thalassery, Kerala, is a 4 km-long drive-in beach along the Malabar Coast. Recognized by BBC in 2016 as one of the best beaches for driving, it allows visitors to drive up to 3.4 km on its sandy shore. The beach offers stunning views of Kannur, while black rocks protect it from strong currents and provide a habitat for Blue Mussels, a local delicacy. It’s also a popular spot for bird-watching, attracting various species throughout the year. Located just 27 km from Nandhanm Holidays, it’s a great destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Thalssery Fort

Tellicherry Fort in Thalassery, Kannur, is a historic site built by the British in 1708 to protect their trade interests. Situated on wooded hills by the sea, it served as a major hub for exporting spices and timber. After tensions with local rulers, the British fortified the area with the Kolathiri Raja’s support. Over time, the fort became a key British stronghold.

Made of laterite, the fort features high walls, bastions, secret tunnels, and intricate doors. It also hosted popular cricket matches between Europeans and locals. Now protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, it is located just 34 km from Nandhanam Holidays.

Ezharakund Waterfall

Ezharakund Waterfalls, one of the most scenic waterfalls in Kannur district, is located in the Paithalmala valley near the Kerala-Karnataka border, about 52 km northeast of Kannur via Sreekandapuram and Kudiyanmala. The falls feature seven levels of rocky natural pools, with crystal-clear water flowing throughout most of the year.

The waterfall creates a unique sight, resembling four kettles stacked one after another, where the water fills each “kettle” in succession. Though still a hidden gem, efforts are underway to develop the area. Ezharakund is 36 km from Nandhanam Holidays.

Palakayam Thattu

Palakkayam Thattu, a stunning hill station in Kannur district, sits at 3,500 feet above sea level, offering panoramic views of lush green hills. It’s a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Visitors can enjoy thrilling activities like ziplining, rope crossing, zorbing, gun shooting, and archery. The hill station is also known for off-road adventures, camping, and trekking. Just 4 km away is the popular Paithalmala. Palakkayam Thattu is 35 km from Nandhanam Holidays, making it an easy and exciting day trip destination.

Kappimala Waterfalls

Kappimala is a lush green village located about 50 km from Thalipparamba in Kannur, Kerala. Nestled between Udayagiri and Paithalmala, it’s known for its serene forests, waterfalls, and scenic valleys.

The highlight of Kappimala is its beautiful waterfall, accessible by a one-kilometer trek. This peaceful spot is rarely crowded and offers a stunning viewpoint. There’s no entry fee, and parking is available on private property. The dirt path to the waterfall is best suited for two-wheelers, with scenic streams along the way. Kappimala is 40 km from Nandhanam Holidays.

Paithalmala

Paithalmala, one of Kannur’s highest peaks, offers a thrilling 6 km trek with breathtaking views of Karnataka, waterfalls, and rare species along the trail. Located 65 km from Kannur town and sitting at 1,372 m above sea level, it’s a paradise for trekking enthusiasts.

Monsoon and summer are the best times to visit, with the added option to cool off at Ezharakundu Waterfalls along the way. Paithalmala has two trekking routes: a challenging one from Kappimala and an easier path from Pottenplave. Paithalmala is 43 km from Nandhanam Holidays.

TEMPLES IN KANNUR

Trichambaram Temple

Trichambaram Temple, located in Taliparamba, Kannur, is a significant Krishna temple where the deity is depicted in a “Raudra” or ferocious posture after the defeat of Kamsa. The temple is part of the ancient Vaishnavite Abhimana Kshethrams and is mentioned in the 11th-century Sanskrit text “Mūṣikavaṃśa.”

The temple features 15th and 16th-century carvings and murals, along with a shrine for Durga situated in the middle of a tank, one of Kerala’s 108 Durgalayas. Shrines for Shiva, Ganapathi, and other deities surround the complex, located 10 km from Nandhanam Holidays.

Rajarajeshwara Temple

The Rajarajeshwara Temple, located in Taliparamba, Kannur, is a revered Shiva temple known as one of the 108 ancient Shiva temples in Kerala. It holds a significant place among South India’s numerous Shiva temples and features a towering shikhara weighing about 90 tonnes.

Devotees often seek solutions to their problems through a prashnam, an astrological decision-making method, conducted on a raised platform outside the temple. This temple is located just 11 km from Nandhanam Holidays.

Annapurneshwari Temple, Cherukunnu

The Annapoorneshwari Temple, located in Kannur, Kerala, is dedicated to the goddess Annapurneshwari, the deity of food. In this temple, Lord Krishna is also worshipped alongside Goddess Sree Annapoorneswari.

Originally a Vishnu/Krishna temple over 1,500 years old, it underwent significant changes after the idol of Annapoorneshwari was consecrated by Avittam Thirunal Raja Raja Varma of Chirakkal Kovilakam. According to Hindu mythology, the goddess arrived from Kashi with two other goddesses and a boatman in a golden ship, landing at Azhi Theeram, now known as Aayiram Thengu. The temple is located 16 km from Nandhanam Holidays

Sree Mridanga Saileswari Temple

Mridanga Saileswari Temple, located in Muzhakunnu, Kannur district, Kerala, is a revered Hindu temple and one of the 108 Durga temples of ancient Kerala. It is believed to have been established by Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. The main deity, Mridanga Saileswari, is depicted as a four-armed Durga, holding a conch and discus in her upward-pointing hands, while blessing devotees with her right hand and resting her left hand on her waist.

In Hindu worship, the three principal forms of Durga include Maha-Durga, Chandika, and Aparajita. Chandika manifests as Chandi, embodying the combined powers of Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Parvati, as well as Chamunda, an aspect created for defeating the demons Chanda and Munda. Maha Durga also has forms such as Ugrachanda, Bhadrakali, and Katyayani. The temple is located 42 km from Nandhanam Holidays.

Peralassery Subramanya Temple

Sree Peralassery Temple, located in Kannur, is a renowned pilgrimage center in North Malabar, dedicated to Lord Subramanya. Its origins trace back to the Thretha Yuga, as mentioned in the Ramayana. According to legend, Lord Sree Rama, accompanied by Lakshmana and Hanuman while searching for Sita, reached this site and sensed the presence of Lord Subramanya. After receiving approval from Lord Ayyappa, Rama decided to consecrate an idol of Subramanya there. He initially sent Hanuman to find a suitable idol, but when Hanuman was delayed, Rama used his Peruvala (a great bangle symbolizing kingship) for the consecration. This act gave rise to the name Peruvalassery, which later became Peralassery.

The temple is also famous for snake worship, and hen’s eggs are the primary offerings. It is located 26 km from Nandhanam Holidays.

Ikkare Kottiyoor Temple

Kottiyoor Temple is a significant Shiva temple located in Kottiyoor, Kannur, Kerala. Its name, derived from the Kattan dynasty of Puralimala, evolved into ‘Kottiyoor’ in the local dialect. While known as Vadakkeshwaram Temple since ancient times, locals also refer to it as Ikkare Kottiyoor, as it is situated on the riverbank near Kottiyoor village, distinguishing it from the shrine on the opposite side of the river. The temple is classified under the Malabar Devaswom Board.

The temple complex consists of two shrines: the Vadakkeshwaram (Ikkare Kottiyoor) on the western bank, which is a permanent structure open only during the 27 days of the Vysakha festival, and the temporary Akkare Kottiyoor on the eastern bank, which serves as a Yaga shrine during the Kottiyoor Vysakha Mahotsavam. Nestled in an 80-acre sacred grove, the temple’s mythology ties it to Daksha Yaga, where Sati Devi is said to have immolated herself. It is located 65 km from Nandhanam Holidays.

Kanhirangad Sree Vaidyanatha Temple

Kanhirangad Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as Vaidhya Nathan, is a revered healing shrine located 14 km from Nandhanam Holidays. This 11th-century temple features unique architecture and is believed to house a self-manifested deity. Pilgrims visit, seeking cures for ailments, particularly skin diseases, with many reporting miraculous recoveries through rituals like Dhara.

Local history attributes its construction to Chola King Shatasoman, who built it for the Antharjanams (royal women) to meditate and later donated it to the Kashyapa gotra community. Kanhirangad Temple is part of a trio of esteemed temples, alongside Taliparamba Shiva Temple and Trichambaram Sri Krishna Temple, sharing administration under the Thaliparambu-Trichambaram-Kanhirangad Devasom authority.

Sree Subramanya Swami Temple

Sree Subramanya Swami Temple in Payyanur, Kannur, is a renowned Lord Subramanya temple noted for its unique architecture, featuring a two-storeyed sanctum shaped like the back of an elephant (Gajaprishtam). The temple houses a 6-ft tall idol of Lord Subramanya and boasts a distinctive 12-ft tall compound wall.

A major attraction is the pavitra mothiram, a sacred ring made of gold and holy darbha grass, crafted on order and sanctified through ancient rituals performed by Brahmins. The temple’s serene environment and lush greenery add to its charm, making it a revered pilgrimage site for devotees year-round. Darshan timings are from 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Located 33 km from Nandhanam Holidays, it draws a steady flow of visitors seeking blessings and the sacred ring.

Mammanam Temple

Mammanam temple is located on the eastern bank of the Irikkur River and was originally inhabited by Namboodiri Brahmins as a dedicated community. During Tippu Sultan’s invasion, the community was devastated; many were slaughtered, and the remaining residents fled, abandoning their temples. Two temples, a Vishnu temple at Kannamgode and a Devi temple at Mamanikkunnu, were destroyed during this time.

Years later, under British rule, the Kalliat Thazhathveettil family acquired land in Irikkur, including the ruins of the old Mahadevi Temple. As devotees of Devi, they maintained a shrine in their home for worship. A Devaprashnam revealed that Devi wished to be worshipped in her Saktheya form. This prompted a shift from Sathwick Aradhana to Saktheya Aradhana rituals. Special priests from the Pidarar (Moosad) community were brought in to perform these rituals. Their descendants continue to serve as priests today. The temple is situated 20 km from Nandhanam Holidays.