If you wish to spend your vacation away from the hubbub of the city in the lap of nature , then Kannur is the place to be. Kannur is a popular holiday destination in India that offers numerous amusing places to visit , such as pristine beaches , beautiful temples , serene hills , and colonial architecture.
Every year numerous people from around the country visit this breathtaking location to spend some time in nature and learn about Kannur’s rich history.
The gorgeous district of Kannur is historically significant as it was once a trading hub and has various tales of traders , invaders , and rulers to tell. Being one of the places rich in culture and history is why it’s called the “Crown of Kerala.”
Until the 12th century , before British rule , Kannur was a business spot in India. People from across the globe , especially the Dutch , Portuguese , and French , came for trade in the Indian market. After the Independence of India , Kannur became a tourist spot , welcoming thousands of visitors each year.
Find the best Kannur tour packages on Hellotravel.com and have a memorable trip. Read on to learn more about Kannur and tour packages.
Kannur Geographic Details
Climate: The average temperature of Kannur is:
· During summers the temperature is approx 35 °C or 95 °F
· During winters temperature is approx 24 °C or 75.2 °F
Area: 78.35 km2
State: Kerala
Year of establishment: 1957
Monsoon: Kannur receives heavy rainfall from June to September.
Other details on Kannur
Population: 2 ,346 ,000 In 2023
Languages: Malayalam and English
Famous food: Thalassery chicken biryani , Unnakkaya , and Mutta Mala
Pin code: 670001
Official Government website: kannur.nic.in/en/
When is the best time to visit Kannur?
The best time for a trip to Kannur is during the winter season , as the weather here is neither too hot nor too cold.
With temperatures between 14°C to 25 °C , you can visit various places in Kannur. When visiting during winter , you can also witness some festivals , such as Pongal and Adoor Gajamela.
Heavy rainfall often spoils a long day of plans. But , visiting Kannur during the monsoon season is also ideal , which lasts from June to September. Here it rains only for a few hours , and the temperature ranges between 23°C to 29°C. Visiting Kannur during monsoon comes with plus points. This is when flights , hotels , and other places offer discounts.
Summers are not an ideal time to plan a vacation in Kannur as the temperature here rises to 35°C. Such scorching weather will make you want to spend your trip indoors. It's best to skip February to May to visit Kannur.
Best Places to Visit in Kannur
1. St. Angelo Fort
One of the top most visited places in Kannur is St. Angelo Fort , a world heritage site. It's situated on the coast of the Arabian Sea , from where you can witness the panoramic view , including the mesmerizing water waves , the natural harbor of Mopilla Bay , and the gorgeous Dharmadam Island.
St. Angelo Fort , also known as Kannur Fort , is of historical significance as it was built by the first Portuguese viceroy , Don Francesco de Almeida , in 1505. This magnificent seashore fort is brimming with tales of trade , battles , and colonialism. Those fascinated by history must include this in their Kannur trip itinerary.
2. Paithalmala
Indulge in the goodness of greenery and nature by visiting one of the highest peaks in Kannur , the Paithalmala , also known as Vaithalmala. Situated in the Western Ghats , Paithalmala is surrounded by dense forests and greenery that can be seen to the horizon.
Paithalmala is located about 65 km from the main city of Kannur , a must-visit place for trekking fanatics. This hill station is for those seeking a vacation of picturesque views of nature and a relaxed ambiance.
3. Peralassery
Another gorgeous site to add to your Kannur tour package is the Sri Subramanya Temple in Peralassery. It's 14 km from the main Kannur district and is one of the most visited places here. The temple has a serpentine idol of Lord Sumbramanya , also known as Kartikeya who is the son of the revered Lord Shiva.
When visiting this site during your Kannur tour , see the stepwell at the temple , one of the largest ones in Kerala. With its beautiful geometrical designs resembling the baoris in North and West parts of India , this site is a place that one cannot resist visiting. Make sure to add this to your places to visit in the Kannur list.
4. Snake Park in Parassinikkadavu
Another fun place to add to your Kannur holidays list , especially for kids , is the Parassinikkadavu Snake Park , one of the best snake sanctuaries in Asia. It is home to venomous and non-venomous snakes , crocodiles , amphibians , birds , and mammals.
Some striking snakes you can witness here are the Russel's Viper , Pythons , Rattlesnakes , and more. Other than serpents , you will also find porcupines , monitor lizards , eagles , jackals and other animals.
Don't miss the famous statue of Steve Irwin holding a crocodile. He was popularly known as The Crocodile Hunter. The park had erected a statue as homage to Irwin on his 10th death anniversary.
5. Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach
Is the soothing sound of the ocean crashing the shore your jam to relaxation? Well , then head to the gorgeous Muzhappilangad drive-in beach in Kannur. This is one of the only drive-in beaches in India and one of the finest ones in the country.
It's one of the cleanest beaches , stretching over 4 km. Drive in with your friends and family , bask in the sunshine , and let your feet get brushed from the gentle foamy waters. Spend your evening at the beach by witnessing the gorgeous sunset and devouring Malabar dishes at nearby restaurants.
Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach also offers water sports such as parasailing and paragliding.
6. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
One of the best places to visit in Kannur , especially for nature lovers , is the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s the only wildlife sanctuary in the city and home to a wide array of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is spread over 55 sq. km in the Western Ghats is a picturesque location one shouldn’t miss.
Take a walk in the lap of nature in the wildlife sanctuary , be surrounded by greenery , and catch a glimpse of exotic birds , elephants , Nilgiri langurs , and other animals.
7. Sundareswara Temple
A must-visit temple you must add to your itinerary for the Kannur trip package is the Sundareswara Temple. Here , Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of Sundareswara , meaning “God of Beauty.”The temple was built in 1916 by a devotee of Lord Shiva and it’s known for its grandiosity and is open to tourists of all castes and creeds.
The Lord Shiva devotees can visit this magnificent temple from April to May as the chief festival of this temple is observed during these months , lasting for eight days with fireworks , and huge celebrations. Do add this temple to your Kannur places list.
8. Madayipara
There are several scenic Kannur sightseeing locations; one such site you must explore is the Madayipara. It is blanketed with vibrant flowers amid the greenery atop a hillock near Pazhayagandi. It’s often compared with the Tulip Gardens of Amsterdam and is also known as the “Land of the Flowers.”
The colorful flowers and greenery attract numerous flora , fauna , and butterfly species. You can also visit the ancient Madayi Fort , which was built by the Vallabha King of Kolothu Dynasty.
9. Ezhara Beach
Go back a century in time with your visit to the Ezhara beach , which is still secluded from the hubbub of the busy city life and is still connected to its roots. Whether you want a fun-filled picnic with your family or stroll on the golden stand with your partner , this place will calm you.
If you are a photography enthusiast , you can take pictures of the coconut trees surrounding the beach and the setting sun in the evening. It’s a fun place to be and must be added to your Kannur holidays itinerary.
10. Arakkal Museum
Cultural buffs and history enthusiasts will love the next best place to visit in Kannur , the Arakkal Museum. It was formerly the residence of the only Muslim royal family in Kerala , the Ali Arakkal Rajas , which has been turned into a museum to honor them.
Tourists can visit the museum to know the lives and culture of the royals in the past through some relics such as their weapons , art , furniture , a telescope , a family Seal , and the royal copies of the Holy Quran.
Fun Things to Do in Kannur
1. Waterfalls – Kannur is one of the top destinations chosen by those who want to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city and around nature. During your visit to this marvelous location , you can spend time around sparkling waterfalls such as Alakpuri , Kudiyanmala , Meenmutty , and Palchuram.
2. Theyyam – During your stay in Kannur , watch a Theyyam performance , one of India's old dance forms , dating back to more than 800 years. The dancers bring local myths , legends , and folktales to life through their movements , bright red costumes , and vibrant makeup. It’s not a dance form of entertainment but of worship , hence known as the “Dance of the Gods.”
3. Explore Local Food – Not just the historical places , but local food also has some Story to tell of the past. During your Kannur tour , try some of the local cuisines Kannur has to offer. Kannur cuisine combines Persian , Arab , Yemeni , and Kerala food cultures. Some must-try dishes include unakkaya , paithiri , Thalassery biryani , and kadukka.
4. Shopping – Buying souvenirs is a must when visiting another place during the holidays. You can go street shopping in Kannur for local snacks , spices , handmade goods , and showpieces. The Fort Road , Fort Light Complex , and Kannur City Complex are some of the top places in the city for shopping.
5. Boating – A fun and relaxed outdoor activity in Kannur is boating. Kannur offers clean and pristine waters for a refreshing boating experience. You can go boating at Payyambalam Beach , Mappila Bay , and other locations.
Kannur Tour Packages
| Kannur Packages |
Number of Days |
Inclusions |
Price Per Person |
| Family Getaway 4 Days Kannur Tour Package |
4 Days |
Flight , Accommodation , Pick Up , Transfer , Sightseeing , Daily Water , Entrance Fees , Visa |
Rs.15 ,000 |
| Magical Kannur Tour Package For 4 Days 3 Nights |
4 Days |
Flight , Accommodation , Pick Up , Transfer , Sightseeing , Daily Water , Entrance Fees , Visa |
Rs.12 ,000 |
| Memorable 3 Days 2 Nights Kannur Trip Package |
4 Days |
Flight , Accommodation , Pick Up , Transfer , Sightseeing |
Rs.4 ,000 |
| Family Getaway 4 Days 3 Nights Kannur and Vacation Package |
4 Days |
Flight , Accommodation , Pick Up , Transfer , Sightseeing |
Rs.6 ,000 |
| Heart-warming 2 Days 1 Night Kannur Holiday Package |
2 Days |
Flight , Accommodation , Pick Up , Transfer , Sightseeing |
Rs.2 ,500 |
Facts about Kannur
· Kannur is also known as the City of Looms and Lores and for its successful handloom industry and its unique folk art called Theyyam.
· For its rich architecture and historical locations , Kannur is also called ‘The Crown of Kerala’.
· Kannur is named after Lord Krishna who is known as Lord Kannan in local language.
· Kannur is also known as Kolathunadu , as it was ruled by the great Kolathiris Royal Family.
· Until 1887 , Kannur with Tellicherry was headquarters for British militaries.
