Azhikode South: Discover beaches, nature and culture

When choosing a holiday rental in Azhikode South, it is worth first deciding what mix of beach, nature and culture you are looking for. Nearby, Chal Beach offers a tangible connection to the sea; the wider Kannur destination broadens the picture with other coastal spots, landscapes and cultural themes. This helps you decide whether beach time, nature experiences or regional history should shape your stay.

Chal Beach: swimming area and seasonal turtle conservation

The swimming area at Chal Beach is 300 metres long and monitored by lifeguards. Check current local conditions before swimming. In addition to the swimming area, there are environmental and sustainability education programmes. During nesting season, the Chal Beach turtle hatchery offers an opportunity to learn more about the conservation of the olive ridley sea turtle.

This brings together two distinct beach themes: the supervised swimming area and the seasonal opportunity to learn about sea turtle conservation. If you would like to give your time by the sea a particular focus, this contrast between swimming and environmental education is especially interesting.

Coastal spots in the wider Kannur destination

In the wider Kannur destination, Payyambalam Beach stretches for more than four kilometres. It is suitable for family picnics and relaxing; surfing and swimming are also possible there. Check locally to see whether these activities are available. By contrast, Muzhappilangad Beach combines a four-kilometre sandy beach that visitors can drive along with other water sports. Natural black rocks around the beach protect it from strong sea currents. Parasailing and other water sports and adventure activities are also offered there; their availability, and whether driving is possible, may depend on local conditions.

These Kannur beaches offer different experiences: Payyambalam combines picnics and relaxation with swimming and surfing, while Muzhappilangad offers driving along the beach and water sports. Comparing them can help you decide what kind of trip you want, without conflating the beach offerings of the wider destination with Azhikode South.

Mountain scenery and backwaters in Kannur

The landscapes of the wider Kannur destination offer their own distinct appeal. Paithalmala is a hill station at 1,372 metres above sea level and one of the highest peaks in Kannur district. It has two trekking routes, each six kilometres long, one more challenging than the other. A six-kilometre trekking trail passes through a landscape of rare endemic species, waterfalls and panoramic views. This makes it possible to think of a stay in terms of both coast and mountain scenery, without treating them as the same kind of excursion.

The Kavvayi Backwaters are formed where the five rivers Kavvayi, Kankol, Vannathichal, Kuppithodu and Kuniyan meet. Boat trips wind through islands, past village landscapes and through biodiverse wetlands. Those interested in waterscapes will find a different focus here than at the beaches or on the trekking routes. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is the only wildlife sanctuary in Kannur district.

History, crafts and cuisine

The cultural range of the wider Kannur destination extends from ritual dance to crafts and history. Theyyam is closely associated with Kannur; this ritual dance form brings together mythology, folklore and spirituality. The Kerala Folklore Academy Museum contains more than 300 objects, including life-size replicas of Theyyams and Patayani, folk and tribal musical instruments and percussion instruments, agricultural implements and weapons. The Academy also houses a folklore library, a museum and a publications department.

The history of the wider destination can also be seen in specific buildings. St. Angelo's Fort was built in 1505 by Dom Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese viceroy of India. Massive triangular bastions and thick laterite walls define the fort; it offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Arakkal Kottaram is a complex of buildings comprising residential buildings, mosques, an administrative block and a commercial centre. Arakkal Kettu houses a museum of antiques belonging to the family, managed by a family trust.

For those interested in crafts, Kunhimangalam in the wider Kannur destination is known for its Heritage Village, associated with handcrafted bronze works, sculptures and curiosities. Visitors can meet bell-metal artisans and watch demonstrations of Panchaloha idol-making; arrangements may vary. Kannur cuisine includes Malabar biryani and fresh seafood prepared with traditional Kerala spices.

Getting there in the wider region

Regular train services connecting Kannur with other major Indian cities are one option for travelling to the wider Kannur destination. Kannur International Airport is an air gateway to Kannur. When choosing accommodation in Azhikode South, the experiences that interest you most can help guide your decision: beaches, landscapes, culture or a mix of all three.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Periya, Pappinisseri, Chakkarakkal, Taliparamba, Iritty, Nayattupara, Payyanur, Muzhappilangad.

See the wider travel guide: Kannur.