Fort St. Angelo: Conjuring up the images of bygone years stands Fort St. Angelo at a distance of three kilometers from Kannur town. The structure is as hyped for its structural prominence as it is for its historical significance; erected in 1505 the fort is the living example of Portuguese architecture in an alien land. Built in the headland that project into Laskhadweep Sea, the fort takes in a triangular layout with adjoining citadels and a trench. The original grandeur as it was during the possession of British is still preserved, although parts of it have fallen prey for the test of the time. Standing at the heights of St. Angelo, freeze the scenic brilliance as you fall in love with it.
Thalassery Fort: Enter the huge gateway at Thalassery Fort (Kannur Fort) and you will soon be lost somewhere in the early 18th century when colonial imperialism was at its peak. Once a military cantonment of the British in Kerala, the fort stands testimony to the glorious past of Kannur! Pitched atop a hill with a view of Thalassery beach, the fort takes in excellent form and shape that have stood the transition of time and weather. With massive walls, a secret tunnel that leads to the sea, and an upright lighthouse, the structure is as magnificent and imposing it can be! A walk along the empty corridors here, listening to the enigmatic notes of waves, is in itself a refreshing experience.
Arakkal Palace: With the vibes of Thalassery Fort (Kannur Fort) lingering in you drive down the street and stop by Arakkal Palace. So rich in historical significance, Arakkal Palace bears a regal connotation of being the abode of the only Muslim family of royal origin in Kerala. Take a tour inside the palace to get a closer view on the lifestyle of Ali Rajah, the male rulers and Arakkal Beevis, their female counterparts.
Madayi Mosque: A 12th century structure, Madayi Mosque in Kannur is a historically important location. The mosque with its enormous white marble said to have brought from Mecca is magnetic in attracting tourists. Within easy access to the mosque is a fort built by the Muslim ruler Tipu Sultan. Though a major portion of it has been ruined, the fort is worth stopping by as the view there is simply fascinating!
Mosque at Thalassery: A structure dating back to 7th century, Thalassery Mosque is of great eminence. One of the oldest, it talks about a history of thousand years and has underwent renovation to display Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.
Gundert Bungalow: Closely linked to the history of the State, Gundert Bungalow is where the German Missionary Dr. Herman Gundert once lived. Located 20 km from Kannur within the premises of Thalassery Town, the bungalow is also significant - one of the first Malayalam dictionaries and newspaper took shape here!
Snake Park at Parassinikadavu: Do you fancy the exotic? Snake Park at Parassinikadavu is the abode of the creepy reptiles, rare animals and bird species etc. Get engaged in the hair rising episodes of both poisonous and non-poisonous snakes on display, most of which are nearing extinction! Endangered species like Simhavalan Monkeys (Lion Tailed Macaque) and Crocodiles of some rare variety too are preserved here. However it is the snake show that attracts tourists; the park is open from 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. everyday.
Kannur Beaches:
As many as the myths and legends the land is known for, there equals a number of beaches, spreading an air of serenity and delight!
Payyambalam beach: Payyambalam beach, located 2 km from Kannur, is the much preferred spot for evening outs and weekend getaways by locals. The strange yet captivating sculpture of ‘mother & child’ is sure to leave one amazed.
Moppila Bay: Situated at close proximity to St. Angelo’s Fort is Moppila Bay, which now hosts an advanced fishing harbor. The beach here is natural with a climate that is seldom hostile.
Ezhimala Beach: Ezhimala beach and the cluster of hillocks are to explore and move ahead. The sight here is truly kaleidoscopic as surprises unfold at every other step you take! Exuding beach with its elegantly carved stone pillars, centuries’ old mosque, and an ancient burial chamber, are sure to hold your interest intact. The hills here are said to contain some rare medicinal herbs that has takers all round the globe. However as the rule says make sure that your tour operator has taken prior permission to enter Ezhimala Beach.
Kizhunna Ezhara Beach: Housed at a distance of 11km from Kannur is Kizhunna Ezhara Beach, the beauty of which one can vouch on; being one of most secluded of Kerala beaches this is much preferred among honeymooners. And when the evening breaks the sound and vibrancy of Kathakali fills the air, when the performers set the stage on fire!
