Kannur, a coastal district in the state of Kerala, India, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance. Known for its pristine beaches, lush green forests, and majestic hills, Kannur has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. The district’s strategic location on the Arabian Sea coast makes it an ideal spot for water sports, fishing, and other marine activities. In addition to its natural attractions, Kannur is also home to a plethora of historical and cultural landmarks, including ancient temples, mosques, and churches. This blog post aims to provide an exhaustive guide to the tourist spots in Kannur, highlighting the best places to visit, things to do, and experiences to have in this enchanting district.
Beaches in Kannur
Kannur’s coastline is dotted with some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the country. Here are some of the top beaches to visit in Kannur:
1. Meenkunnu Beach
Located about 16 km from Kannur town, Meenkunnu Beach is a secluded and picturesque beach that offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The beach is surrounded by lush green forests and hills, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach, or take a leisurely walk along the shoreline.
| Distance from Kannur town | 16 km |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Facilities available | Food stalls, restrooms, and parking |
2. Muzhappilangad Beach
Muzhappilangad Beach, located about 16 km from Kannur town, is a long stretch of sandy beach that offers a range of activities, including swimming, surfing, and fishing. The beach is also a popular spot for sunbathing, picnics, and relaxation. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the shoreline or enjoy the sunset at the beach.
| Distance from Kannur town | 16 km |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Facilities available | Food stalls, restrooms, and parking |
3. Thottada Beach
Thottada Beach, located about 15 km from Kannur town, is a secluded and peaceful beach that offers a serene atmosphere. The beach is surrounded by lush green forests and hills, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach, or take a leisurely walk along the shoreline.
| Distance from Kannur town | 15 km |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Facilities available | Food stalls, restrooms, and parking |
Historical and Cultural Landmarks in Kannur
Kannur is home to a plethora of historical and cultural landmarks, including ancient temples, mosques, and churches. Here are some of the top historical and cultural landmarks to visit in Kannur: (See Also: Top 10 Tourist Spots in India – Must Visit Destinations)
1. St. Angelo Fort
St. Angelo Fort, located in the heart of Kannur town, is a 16th-century fort that was built by the Portuguese. The fort is a masterpiece of Portuguese architecture and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the fort’s walls, towers, and bastions, and learn about its rich history and significance.
| Location | Kannur town |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Facilities available | Food stalls, restrooms, and parking |
2. Fort St. George
Fort St. George, located in the heart of Kannur town, is a 17th-century fort that was built by the British. The fort is a masterpiece of British architecture and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the fort’s walls, towers, and bastions, and learn about its rich history and significance.
| Location | Kannur town |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Facilities available | Food stalls, restrooms, and parking |
3. Kannur Museum
Kannur Museum, located in the heart of Kannur town, is a museum that showcases the district’s rich cultural heritage and history. The museum features a collection of artifacts, including ancient coins, jewelry, and other relics. Visitors can learn about the district’s history, culture, and traditions, and explore the museum’s exhibits and galleries.
| Location | Kannur town |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Facilities available | Food stalls, restrooms, and parking |
Nature Reserves and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kannur
Kannur is home to several nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries, including the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary and the Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary. These reserves and sanctuaries offer a range of activities, including trekking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. Visitors can explore the reserves and sanctuaries on foot or by vehicle, and learn about the district’s rich biodiversity and ecosystem.
1. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 60 km from Kannur town, is a nature reserve that is home to a range of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and leopards. The sanctuary offers a range of activities, including trekking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on foot or by vehicle, and learn about the district’s rich biodiversity and ecosystem. (See Also: Tourist Spots in Memphis – Music City Delights)
| Location | About 60 km from Kannur town |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Facilities available | Food stalls, restrooms, and parking |
2. Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary
Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 40 km from Kannur town, is a nature reserve that is home to a range of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and leopards. The sanctuary offers a range of activities, including trekking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on foot or by vehicle, and learn about the district’s rich biodiversity and ecosystem.
| Location | About 40 km from Kannur town |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Facilities available | Food stalls, restrooms, and parking |
Recap
Kannur is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance. The district is home to a plethora of tourist spots, including beaches, historical and cultural landmarks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including swimming, surfing, trekking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. In this blog post, we have highlighted some of the top tourist spots in Kannur, including the beaches, historical and cultural landmarks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries. We hope that this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Kannur and that you have a wonderful time exploring this enchanting district.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best time to visit Kannur?
A: The best time to visit Kannur is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities, including swimming, surfing, trekking, and wildlife spotting.
Q: What are the top beaches to visit in Kannur?
A: Some of the top beaches to visit in Kannur include Meenkunnu Beach, Muzhappilangad Beach, and Thottada Beach. These beaches offer a range of activities, including swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
Q: What are the top historical and cultural landmarks to visit in Kannur?
A: Some of the top historical and cultural landmarks to visit in Kannur include St. Angelo Fort, Fort St. George, and Kannur Museum. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the district’s rich history and culture. (See Also: Tourist Spots in Iran – Hidden Gems Uncovered)
Q: What are the top nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries to visit in Kannur?
A: Some of the top nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries to visit in Kannur include Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary and Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary. These reserves and sanctuaries offer a range of activities, including trekking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting.
Q: What are the best ways to get around Kannur?
A: The best ways to get around Kannur are by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus. These modes of transportation offer a convenient and affordable way to explore the district.