Overview
About Kannur
Kannur, in the north of Kerala on the Malabar coast, is one of the least commercialised beach destinations in the state. Its coastline mixes long sandy stretches with rocky headlands and quiet coves, and the hinterland rises gently into hills, cashew groves and the forests of the Western Ghats.
The region is best known as the heartland of Theyyam, a vivid ritual art form in which performers in elaborate costumes, face paint and towering headdresses become embodiments of deities. Performances take place in village shrines, mostly between the end of the monsoon and the start of summer, and witnessing one is an unforgettable experience. Kannur also has a strong tradition of handloom weaving and is known for its martial art, Kalaripayattu.
History runs deep here. Kannur was a busy port for spice traders, and the Portuguese, Dutch and British all left their mark, most visibly at St Angelo Fort. The Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal house in Kerala, ruled from Kannur, and nearby Thalassery is known for its fort, its cricket legacy and its celebrated biryani.
- Theyyam
- Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach
- St Angelo Fort
- Handloom
- Malabar cuisine
- Thalassery biryani
Sightseeing
Best Places to Visit in Kannur
Beaches
Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach
A long, firm stretch of sand where vehicles can be driven along the water's edge. It is also a good spot for a sunset walk.
Payyambalam Beach
The town's main beach, with a promenade, gardens and a large sculpture, popular with families in the evening.
Meenkunnu Beach
A quieter, less developed beach north of the town, with clean sand and calm surroundings.
Dharmadam Island
A small green island just off the coast near Thalassery. At low tide, it is sometimes possible to walk across, but check tide conditions locally.
Forts & Heritage
St Angelo Fort
A triangular laterite fort built by the Portuguese in the early 16th century on a headland facing the sea, later held by the Dutch and the British.
Arakkal Museum
Housed in a part of the Arakkal palace, this museum displays furniture, weapons and documents from Kerala's only Muslim royal family.
Thalassery Fort
A sturdy British-era fort in Thalassery, about 20 km south of Kannur, with thick walls and secret tunnels.
Temples
Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple
A riverside temple dedicated to Sree Muthappan, where a Theyyam-style ritual is performed almost every day. It is one of the most accessible places to see the art form.
Nature
Madayipara
A laterite hill plateau that bursts into colourful wildflowers after the monsoon, with an old temple tank and wide views.
Ezhimala
A hill on the coast to the north, known for its views over the sea and as the site of the Indian Naval Academy.
Nearby Excursions
Paithalmala
A forested hill station near the Karnataka border, popular for its trekking trail and views from the top.
Experiences
Top Things to Do in Kannur
- 1
Watch a Theyyam performance
Ask locally or at the tourism office about upcoming performances at village shrines; many start late at night and continue until dawn.
- 2
Drive on the beach
Take a slow drive along Muzhappilangad at low tide, following local guidance on safe stretches.
- 3
Visit a handloom cooperative
See weavers at work and buy cotton fabrics, towels and furnishings directly from the looms.
- 4
Watch Kalaripayattu
Kalari training centres in the region sometimes host demonstrations of this ancient martial art of Kerala.
- 5
Eat a Thalassery biryani
Head to Thalassery for its distinctive biryani, made with short-grain kaima rice and flavoured with ghee and fried onions.
- 6
Trek at Paithalmala
Spend a day walking through forest and grassland on the trail up to the summit of Paithalmala.
Weather
Best Time to Visit Kannur
The best time to visit Kannur is October to March. Here is what each season is like.
Summer
March to May
25°C to 35°C
Hot and humid, with the last Theyyam performances of the season in March and April. Beaches are best early in the morning.
Monsoon
June to September
23°C to 29°C
Heavy rain lashes the coast, the sea is rough and beaches are unsafe for swimming. The countryside turns deep green and it is a good time for Ayurvedic treatments.
Winter
October to February
20°C to 32°C
The best season, with clear skies, calm seas and the peak of the Theyyam calendar. Ideal for beaches, forts and village visits.
Getting there
How to Reach Kannur
By Air
Kannur International Airport at Mattanur is about 30 km from the town and has domestic flights as well as international connections, mainly to the Gulf. Calicut International Airport is another option, about 110 km away.
By Rail
Kannur railway station lies on the main west coast line, with trains to Mangaluru, Kozhikode, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Mumbai and other cities. Thalassery and Payyanur stations are also in the district.
By Road
Kannur is on NH 66, about 90 km from Kozhikode and about 140 km from Mangaluru. KSRTC and private buses run frequently, and Mysuru is reachable by road through the hills.
Taste of the city
Famous Food of Kannur
Thalassery biryani
A fragrant biryani made with small-grained kaima rice, chicken or mutton and plenty of fried onions, a Malabar classic.
Kallummakaya fry
Mussels coated in spices and fried, a speciality of the north Malabar coast.
Malabar parotta with beef or chicken curry
Flaky layered bread with a rich coconut or onion-based curry.
Pathiri
Thin, soft rice flatbreads, often served with meat curries in Malabar Muslim homes.
Unnakaya
A sweet snack of mashed ripe plantain stuffed with egg, coconut and nuts, then fried.
What to Buy in Kannur
- Kannur handloom fabrics and towels
- Cashew nuts
- Banana chips and halwa
- Spices from the Malabar region
Travel Tips for Kannur
- Theyyam performances follow a ritual calendar, so plan your visit between October and April and ask locals for that week's schedule.
- Behave respectfully at Theyyam shrines: dress modestly, avoid flash photography and do not block the performers.
- Avoid swimming during the monsoon, when currents are strong along the coast.
- Follow local instructions before driving on Muzhappilangad, as tide and sand conditions change.
FAQs
Kannur Travel FAQs
What is Kannur famous for?
Kannur is famous for Theyyam, its handloom industry, Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, St Angelo Fort and Malabar cuisine, including Thalassery biryani.
What is the best time to visit Kannur?
October to March is the best time to visit Kannur, when the weather is pleasant and the Theyyam season is at its peak.
Where can I see Theyyam in Kannur?
Theyyam is performed at village shrines across Kannur district during the season. The Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple holds rituals almost daily, making it the easiest place to see one.
Can you drive on Muzhappilangad beach?
Yes, Muzhappilangad is known as a drive-in beach where vehicles can be driven on the firm sand, but follow local guidance on safe areas.
How many days are enough for Kannur?
Two to three days are enough for the beaches, forts and a Theyyam performance. Add a day for Thalassery or Paithalmala.
Which airport is closest to Kannur?
Kannur International Airport at Mattanur, about 30 km from the town, is the closest airport.
