Kannur -History
Referred to as the land of Art and looms, is a northern district in Kerala famed for its vibrant culture and rich heritage. Kannur owes its culture to several empires that vied to make this territory an abode of their power. The history of the place dates back to the biblical times as the ships of King Solomon are believed to have been anchored on the shores of Kannur. Kannur has gathered worldwide attention with its unique handloom industry and temple folklore forms such as Theyyattam. It is best known for renowned beaches of the region including Payyambalam, Meenkunnu, Kizhunna, Ezhara and Muzhuppilangad Beach.
St. Angelo’s Fort
Locals call it Kannur Kotta (Kannur Fort). The historic monument is maintained by Archaeological Survey of India.Built in early 1,500s by Dom Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese Viceroy of India, it changed hands quite a few times. The Dutch who took over the fort in the seventeenth century did a thorough revamp. A painting of this fort displayed at Rijks Museum in Amsterdam narrates their Kannur connection.The seaside bastion overlooks Mappila bay and Arakkal Museum, two other tourist attractions in Kannur.
Arakkal Museum
Kannur used to be the capital of Arakkal Kings, who ruled the surrounding areas plus the island of Lakshadweep. A part of Arakkal Palace is now converted to a Museum, displaying artifacts and items of historical interest.Arakkal Museum is managed by Arakkal family, the descendants of erstwhile rulers. Arakkal Museum is located at Ayikkara in Kannur town in proximity to Kannur Fort.
Mappila bay
Bay is a scenic natural harbor, just a short walk away from Kannur Fort and Arakkal Palace. The bay, a well-known fishing harbor, is also popular local sightseeing spot, thanks to scenic boat rides in coastal waters.
Payyambalam Beach
This Beach is a popular tourist attraction in the region of Kannur. Situated at a distance of about 2 km from the town of Kannur, the beach is easily accessible by road. The chief attraction of Payyambalam Beach is a magnificent sculpture of a mother and a child by Kanayi Kunjiraman, the most renowned sculptor. The beach has a well-maintained garden adjacent to it where people can spend their evening watching the beauty of the ocean.
Muzhappilangad Drive-In-Beach
This world-class drive-in-beach, where you could have a fun drive almost 4 km, is one of the top tourist attractions in Kannur. Nevertheless, the beach stays entertaining.The rocky coastal waters have shallow pools of plenty. Past the rocks, only mild waves reach the shore. So the beach is great to swim. Just a couple of hundred meters from the beach is a gorgeous island. Dharmadam island, a sightseeing spot in its own right, is one of the well-known tourist attractions in Kannur. Muzhappilangad beach is 15 km south of Kannur.
Dharmadam Island
Just at a stone’s throw away from Muzhappilangad drive-in-beach, Dharmadam is a tiny uninhabited islet. Its whole area is just 5 acres. Aptly, Dharmadam is also called Green Island. With dense bushes and coconut trees, the beach isle is a drop of green amidst a sea of blue. During low tides, people even walk to it.
