Places to Visit in Kannur

Located in Kannur, the St. Angelo Fort is a historic seaside fort built in 1050 by the Portuguese. It is set along the Arabian Sea, and tells the tales of the colonial battles and power shifts among the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. With the massive bastions, old prison cells, and sea-facing canon holes, the fort offers an insight into Kerala’s colonial history, making it a must-include in your Kerala tour package. The peaceful lawns and the scenic views of the fort make it look just perfect for photography, walking, and relaxation. 

St. Angelo Fort is a serene destination for a family picnic and photography, located near the beach and just 3 km from Kannur city.

Famous as Kerala’s only drive-in beach, the Muzhappilangad offers some of the most stunning views of the yellow and orange sun setting along the golden sandy beaches of Malabar coast.

Palakkayam Thattu is one of the alluring places to visit in Kannur near the Western Ghats because of the verdant greenery and dizzying height of about 3350 feet above the sea level. It also happens to be one of the most visited hill stations in the state of Kerala. Populated by dense forests and several hillocks, the quaint hamlet is a favoured destination for avid trekkers.

The Kannur Lighthouse is a historical landmark near Payyambalam Beach in Kerala, built in 1903. The  structure offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the Kannur coastline, making it a popular destination for tourists and photographers. Visitors can climb up the spiral staircase of the lighthouse to reach the top and enjoy the panoramic view, especially at sunset.

The adjacent Lighthouse Museum displays old maritime tools, navigational instruments and exhibits that highlight the region’s rich maritime history. It is surrounded by the tranquil Sea View Park, providing a peaceful retreat that combines history, natural beauty and picturesque views in one visit.

Vismaya Water Park is one of the most visited tourist places in Kannur. The water park found its way into the limelight in the year 2008 by the Malabar Tourism Development Co-operative Limited (MTDC) and since then it has been boasting with its world-class architecture of splash pools, amusement rides, restaurants, casual shops, prayer halls, and conference halls that the tourists enjoy.

Located by the coastal border of Kannur in Kerala is renowned as one of the cleanest and secluded beaches in Kerala. Often collectively called Kizhunna Ezhara beach, the twin beaches of Kizhunna and Ezhara lie side by side. Ezhara Beach attracts visitors with its powdery sands, clean waters, and lush greenery that define the beach. 

Ezhara Beach is known for its quiet and less crowded atmosphere, providing a peaceful and private retreat to all the tourists from the hustle and bustle of city life. Enjoy the gentle waves and the beautiful sunset views while relaxing or walking comfortably by the beach. For the more adventurous, the beach offers activities like swimming, cycling by the shoreline and engaging yourself fishing with the locals. 

Located in Kannur city, the Sundareswara Temple is a famous Shiva temple that is known for its historic importance, spirituality, and peacefulness. It was made by the Thiyyars of Kannur and was consecrated in 1916 by Sree Narayana Guru. The temple holds special cultural significance for the local Hindu community. This temple’s architecture is beautiful, with a Kerala-style gopuram and a sanctum inside, and the temple feels visually appealing. Devotees visit this temple often to indulge in soulful meditation, poojas, and festival celebrations, especially during the annual Arattu festival in March-April.

The Sundareswara Temple offers a deeper spiritual experience and a refreshing energy. Whether you are religious or just seeking peace, this temple provides a peaceful pause amidst the vibrant city life.

Located 14 km away from Kannur is the famous pilgrimage site known as Peralassery hosting the holy Sri Subramania temple. The temple is devoted to Lord Subramanya, the son of Lord Shiva and a revered figure in the Hindu religion.

Located in Kannur, the Tellicherry Fort, also known as Thalassery Fort, is a historic landmark that depicts the region’s past during the colonial era. This fort was built in 1708 by the British East India Company, and it is a symbol of the British era in the area. This Fort is known for its strong walls and its views over the Arabian Sea. One can explore the fort’s interiors, which include remnants of old cannons and other structures.

The Tellicherry Fort offers a glimpse into the history of trade, warfare, and British influence in Kerala. It is an ideal spot for history enthusiasts and people who are interested in Kerala’s colonial heritage.

The Meenkunnu Beach, located in Kannur, Kerala, is a quiet and beautiful spot for travelers who are looking for a peaceful escape. This beach is less crowded and untouched, with golden sand, coconut trees, and waves. It is located about 12 km from Kannur town, and is popular among photographers, nature lovers, and beautiful sunsets. 

As Meenkunnu Beach is less commercialised, it is perfect for long walks, picnics, or just relaxing. You can pack a family picnic to the beach and sit under the cool shade of coconut trees, having your homemade food. Whether you are a solo traveller or visiting along with some company, the charm of Meenkunnu beach makes it worth visiting. 

The untouched shores of the Dharmadam Island offer an escape from routine, worries, and tiredness like never before. Because of its segregation from the hustle and bustle of city life, the island has become a retreat centre for weary travellers.

Discover the unique charm of Kannur’s Parassinikkadavu Snake Park, which is one of the best places to visit for wildlife lovers, researchers, and nature enthusiasts. The snake park is located in the scenic town of Parassinikkadavu and is home to 150+ species of reptiles, including venomous and non-venomous snakes like cobras, vipers, and pythons. This park is designed for the public to educate them about the snakes, and it also features crocodiles, birds, and interactive demonstrations.

Parassinikkadavu Snake Park is an ideal spot for family trips and school tours. This park offers a mix of conservation, awareness, and adventure at the table. Visitors visiting the park must not miss the live snake handling shows and lush green backdrop that enhances the natural appeal.

Located in the scenic location of Kannur, Thottada Beach, Kerala, is a beautiful hidden gem offering beautiful views of the Arabian Sea, away from the usual tourist crowds. This beach is known for its golden sands and crystal-clear blue water, providing a peaceful escape for everyone. This beach is perfect for walking, swimming, or simply relaxing by the shore while enjoying the gentle breeze. Thottada Beach is also home to small fishing villages, allowing visitors to experience the coastal lifestyle of Kerala. 

The Thottada Beach is an ideal spot for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who is seeking a refreshing getaway amidst a soulful natural environment.

Located in Kannur, Arakkal Museum is a heritage museum dedicated to the royal Arakkal Family, which was the only muslim dynasty in Kerala. It is set within the Arakkalkettu palace and displays royal artefacts like furniture, weapons, coins, and documents that trace the dynasty’s influence on the Malabar coast and Lakshadweep. This museum building is an example of Kerala-style architecture mixed with Islamic elements. 

With its peaceful ambience and historical depth, the museum offers visitors an immersive look into a unique chapter of Kerala’s past. It's a perfect stop for those interested in royal history, cultural fusion, and lesser-known dynasties of India.

Tropical and evergreen forests stretching over an area of an impressive 55 square meters, the Aralam wildlife sanctuary is truly the finest of its kind. It is truly a wondrous sight to behold – enjoy the exotic array of flora and fauna, catch a glimpse of jumbo elephants and witness the Nilgiri langurs playing on trees.

Situated near the famous St Angelo’s fort, the Mapilla Bay a natural yet revamped fishing harbour offering spectacular views of the pristine Arabian Sea waters. The bay holds historical significance because of the Indo-Norwegian pact under which it was modernised. 

A walk around the bay is a curious and memorable experience, watching the fishermen in various stages of fishing, mending their nets, sorting the catch. The wall extending from the fort into the bay offers gorgeous views of the waters. Boat riding from the bay into the sea is a truly exhilarating experience and will stay etched in your memory forever.

Distance: 2.1 km from Kannur bus stand.

Timings: 1 AM to 10.55 PM, every day.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

Perched at a height of 4500 meters above sea level, this bewitching hill station is located about 65 kms from Kannur and is one of the most amazing places to visit in Kannur. Adrenaline rush seekers will find a haven here – the trek to the village is 6 kms and enlivens up the senses. 

The panoramic view of lush green forests, waterfalls featuring pristine waters and an array of flora and fauna keeps you on your toes throughout the trek. The hamlet itself is secluded from everything that makes modern life exhausting and serves to act as a salve for frayed nerves.

Distance: 52 km from Kannur bus stand

Timings: 8 AM to 4 PM, every day

Entry fee: No entry fee.

Spread over a massive 700 acres, the hillock of Madayipura is considered as one of the most famous Kannur tourist places. The gorgeous laterite plateau offers unique and differently coloured hues in every season. Visit the hillock in summer and feast your eyes on the lovely earthy brown and tangerine shades. 

Watch the place covered in a blanket of green in rain witness it turns blue in spring. Along with bewitching vistas, the Madayi fort of the Vallabha king and the Jew pond offer an excellent treat for history buffs. The rich ecological variety in the form of rare species of flora and fauna and a rare collection of insect-eating plants make the plateau an attraction for botany enthusiasts.

Distance: 26.6 km from Kannur bus stand.

Timings: No timing restrictions.

Entry fee: No entry fees.

Perched at a height of 286 meters, the Ezhimala hill is one of the most visually appealing Kannur tourist places. The hill is a part of an isolated cluster of hills and the vantage point offers bedazzling views of the sheer naked natural splendour around – hills covered in a blanket of green, cotton white clouds covering the clear blue skies, and the beautiful valley underneath. 

The place also has cultural and historical significance – the place was a battlefield during the Chola-Chera wars. Buddhists consider the place sacred because it is believed that Lord Buddha visited Ezhimala.

Distance: 36.0 km from Kannur bus stand.

Timings: No timing restrictions.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

Surrounded by rolling green hills and serpentine pathways, the little hamlet of Taliparamba is one of the most beautiful Kannur tourist places. The village has a prominent place in South India for dealing in spices and hill produce, so you can get aromatic spices and fresh produce here without burning a hole in your pocket. 

Proximity to undulating hills and the rivers Kuppam and Valapattanam makes the village an attractive tourist site. And because it is only 14 kms from the Arabian Sea, you can easily go for a stroll on the beach from here.

Location: 23.3 km from Kannur bus stand.

Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM, all days of the week

Entry fee: No entry fees.

Pappinisseri is a small hamlet in the Kannur district of God’s own country and is the perfect idyllic getaway from the lightning-paced lifestyle of modern cities. The beautiful village has a population of less than 35000 and is, therefore, the perfect place to spend a few days away from civilization in the arms of nature. 

Surrounded by lovely green hills and showcasing various little islands in the river Baliapatam, natural beauty is at its full splendour in Pappinisseri. The Vadeswaram hills in the town are also known for their gorgeous scenic vistas.

Distance: 12.2 km from Kannur bus stand.

Timings: No timing restrictions.

Entry fee: No entry fees.

Set amidst beautiful vistas of the rising sun, golden sandy coastline, alluring landscape, pleasant weather, swaying cashew trees and calm demeanor, right in the heart of Kerala, Kannur beach is also popular for its ancient temples, natural treasures and scenic beauty. It also offers an unparalleled charm and an idyllic traditional Kerala hospitality to its visitors.

The beautiful town of Kannur is steeped in history, vibrant culture and distinctive local art forms and has a distinct charm of the colonial era. The stark influence of the exuberant Dutch, Portuguese, British and Mysore culture are still imbibed into the town and can be witnessed all around this quaint town.

Bordered by the Western Ghats in the east, the Lakshadweep Sea in the west, Kozhikode and Wayanad districts in the south and Kasargod in the north, Kannur beach is one of the must-visit beaches in the northern part of Kerala. Kannur features an impressive line up of beaches that garner tourists from across the world, making it one of the favored destinations for a wonderful holiday with friends and family.

In totality, the alluring Kannur beach serves as a promising getaway from the dreary city life and provides a shield in its quaint and naturalistic paradise amplified by a labyrinth of azure waterways, vibrant culture and splendid natural grandeur. An enchanting destination in ‘God's Own Country’ Kerala, Kannur, also called Cannanore, is a true paradise for nature lovers, photo fanatics and wanderers.