Fact File Area - 2345 sq. km  Population - 261897  Altitude - 190 m above Sea level  Languages - Hindi, English and Gujarati  Best Time to Visit - October to March  STD Code - 0495

Introduction Kozhikode was once the capital of the powerful Zamorins. Later, the Dutch, the French and the British came this shore to trade. Kozhikode still maintains its commercial traditions, as cargo steamers visit the port even today. The town is famous for its boat-building yard, timber industry and historic temples and churches. Kozhikode was a port at least as early at the 7th century for Chinese and Middle Eastern traders. Vasco da Gama, the first European to arrive in India by boat, landed first in Kappad, 16km north of Kozhikode. The Portuguese had regular skirmishes with the local rulers, the Zamorins, for about a century and a half. Eventually the Portuguese were allowed to base their operations here. The British, French, Dutch, Portuguese, and Haider Ali, the ruler of Mysore and his son Tipu Sultan, all competed for Calicut in the 17th and 18th centuries. In 1792 the British took it over Sightseeing Kozhikode offers various sightseeing like Kappad, place where Vasco Da Gamma landed on 1498. Also visit Pazhassiraja Museum, which is located at east hill. Beypore town is situated at the mouth of Beypore river, it is one of the chief ports of Kerala. Visit Payyoli, which is a place of historical importance due to the old fort and mosque. Also visit Vadakara, which has a historical fort which is now in ruins. Also visit Teli Temple, which was built in the 14th century. Excursions Kozhikode offers various excursions such as Tusharagiri, famous for its trekking tracks and is located near Vythiri. Mananchitra Maidan – the palace tank of King Mana Vikrama is an architectural splendor. Kallai – key timber trading center has the second largest timber yard in Asia. The Backwaters of Kozhikode - the Canolly Canal and the Kallai river are favorite haunts for boating. Kadalundi, with its beautiful bird sanctuary is a charming site.