Calicut is a major city in the state of Kerala.
Calicut has a deep history and was a vital place for trading spices like black pepper and cardamom. Vasco da Gama landed near Calicut in Kappad.
Calicut is renowned for its boat-building yard, timber industry and old temples and churches . Calicut Beach, Tali Siva Temple, Mishkal Mosque, Panniyankara Bhagavati Temple, Thiruvannur Siva Temple, Kappad Beach, Beypore and Thusharagiri Falls are some of the attractions worth visiting.
Once a mighty seaport where travellers came from far and wide to trade in a variety of goods, Calicut has withstood the winds of change and various rules. Its old-world charm combines with the verdant countryside, calm beaches, historic landmarks, wildlife sanctuaries, rivers and hills to make Calicut a popular tourist destination.
The thriving trade of spices and various riches along the Malabar Coast ensured that foreign visitors and merchants constantly landed In Kozhikode. The most famous is the Portuguese Vasco da Gama, who first set foot in India here in Kozhikode in 1498.
Marking the arrival of the Europeans to the Indian subcontinent, Vasco da Gama was the first to discover an alternate sea route to India around the Cape of Good Hope as opposed to the ancient Roman trade route via the Mediterranean Sea. Da Gama landed in May of 1498 and was warmly welcomed by the ruling king or Zamorin. However, when the Portuguese realised that they lacked the goods to trade for Indian spices and silks, relations soon soured with the Indians.
Kappad Beach and the village Panthalayini Kollam and Mishkal Mosque are some of the popular attractions here.
Calicut is known for its historic sites, unique culture, and a warm, friendly people. On first impact, it is a sprawling city with an evident rustic charm. As you explore further, it becomes apparent that this is an ancient city packed with a rich and diverse history.
Our battered suitcases were piled on the sidewalk again; we had longer ways to go. But no matter, the road is life.