Places to Visit Near Kannur

The Muzzhapilangad Drive-in Beach at Kannur is one referred to with many superlatives- as the longest drive-in beach in the whole of India, as one of the cleanest beaches of Kannur and most importantly, as one of the best drive-in beaches that the entire Asian continent has to offer! Being Kerala's only drive-in beach, it attracts the attention of many tourists around the year. The whole concept of drive-in beaches is that you can drive right on the sandy shores of the beach- it is not very often that you get to drive along a 4 km long shoreline that offers an open road with no traffic and a stunning view.

Distance from Kannur: 14 km

Regarded as one of the finest snake sanctuaries of Asia, the Parassinikadavu Snake Park is the pride of the south. It is one of the most prominent reptile preservation centres in the country and is the only one in Kerala. The Parassinikadavu Snake Park is home to over 150 different species of reptiles like crocodiles, monitor lizards and snakes- both venomous and non-venomous. Not only reptiles and amphibians, but this snake park also goes a long way to preserve and protect many wild mammals, marine creatures as well as rare avifauna- both endemic and migratory.

Distance from Kannur: 16 km

Perched upon a hillock near Pazhayagandi in the scenic city of Kannur, Madayipara is renowned as one of the most beautiful landscapes in the entire state of Kerala. Often compared with the famous Tulip Gardens of Amsterdam, Madayipara is better known as 'the land of flowers'. This mystical land is one that changes its appearance with the seasons. The springs decorate the entire hillock in a spectacular gown of vivaciously coloured flora. As the summer approaches, the hillock shapeshifts into a glamorous golden field filled with knee-high grass. Come autumn, the place is dotted with leaves that paint the field a raging crimson red.

Distance from Kannur: 24 km

More exact words were never said than when Kerela was deemed as God's own country. And right in the midst of this surreal beauty lies the beautiful hillock of Ezhimala. Combining the best of both worlds, this 286-meter high destination is located surrounding a pristine beach and thus appeals to both mountain enthusiasts as well as beach lovers. The tourist spot also has a few carved stone structures, and the herbs found in this location are famous for their unusual medicinal properties.

Distance from Kannur: 33 km

Taliparamba, a small city in Kerala is situated at a distance of 25 km from the Kannur town. The Valapattanam River and Kuppam River flow through enhancing the natural beauty of the place. The city is surrounded by lush green fields all around along with ancient tile-roofed houses which together make the place appear so much more beautiful. The greenery offers a peaceful environment and a perfect getaway from the usual fast life of the city.

Distance from Kannur: 21 km

A small hill station tucked in the forest of Kodagu in the Kannur district of Kerala, Paithalmala is one of the most beautiful peaks in the Western Ghats that mesmerizes anyone who has been here. Standing tall at 4500 ft, Paithalmala is the tallest peak in the district of Kannur and a very popular trekking destination for all the nature and adventure lovers out there. An enchanting hill station with captivating beauty, thrilling trekking trails and abundance of lush greenery - Paithalmala is a perfect getaway.

Distance from Kannur: 52 km

About 16 km away from Kannur, Parassinikkadavu is a town popular for its Muthappan Temple and Parassinikkadavu Snake Park. The Muthappan temple, dedicated to Sree Muthappan is the only Hindu temple in the state which witnesses a Theyyam performance daily as per ritual. The snake park on the other hand, is home to a huge number and variety of snakes including the King Cobra, Pit Viper and many more.
 

Distance from Kannur: 18 km

Being the northernmost wildlife reserve in the whole of Kerala and the only wildlife sanctuary in Kannur, the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is quite a big deal. Amidst these sky-touching trees and mesmerising greenery, many exotic wildlife species have marked their territory. Taking a safari through the thick verdure and venturing deeper into the forests, you will encounter many striking and remarkably extraordinary species of animals as well as birds that will leave you stumped and in awe of nature's wondrous creations.

Distance from Kannur: 61 km

At a distance of about 15 km from Kannur is the town of Peralassery, known for its Peralassery Subrahmanya Temple. It is believed that on their way to Lanka to free Goddess Sita, Lord Ram and Lord Laxman, stopped at the temple for a while and they left a bangle here. A significant religious and spiritual site, do visit this one if you find yourself in the town of Peralassery.
 

Distance from Kannur: 14 km

Known For : Backwaters in Kozhikode Kozhippara Falls Thusharagiri Waterfall

Formerly known as Calicut, Kozhikode is located in Kerala. It was the Capital of Malabar during the Zamorin rule 500 years ago and is famous for its centuries-old trade in cotton and spices with Jews, Arabs, Phoenicians and Chinese. Vasco da Gama had set his foot on the remote beach of Kappad in Kozhikode in 1498 and 'Discovered India' and established spice trade routes with the west.  Basking in the idyllic setting of the serene Arabian Sea on the west and the proud peaks of the Wayanad hills on the east, this district with the serene beaches, lush green countryside, historic sites, all combine to make Kozhikode a popular tourist destination.

Distance from Kannur: 90 km

Best Time: October to March

44 Kozhikode Attractions

Known For : Mahe, Thalaserry Dharmadan Thuruth Thalassery Fort

Fondly known as Tellichery, Thalassery is a coastal town of Kerala nestled at the shore of Arabian Sea and immersed in the vibrant culture. Steeped in rich history and heritage, this town was one of the earliest British settlements in the state. Thalassery owns several credits in its basket when it comes to panoramic views, the reflection of its glorious past and nature's beauty. Apart from being a home to many famous circus owners and artists including Gemini and Bharath, this charming town is also renowned for its bakeries. 

Distance from Kannur: 21 km

Best Time: October to March

17 Thalaserry Attractions

Known For : Abbey Falls Talacauvery Namdroling Monastery

Generally covered as a part of trips to Coorg, Madikeri is a hill town in Karnataka with vast coffee plantations, lush forests and misty hills, all culminating into a breathtaking view. Located in Kodagu District at around 6 hours from Bengaluru between Mysore and Mangalore, Madikeri is a perfect weekend getaway. There is no pollution, no noises to hurt your ears and the cool breeze that accompanies you throughout makes your trip memorable. The most famous place of Madikeri is Raja's Seat- a famous viewpoint from where you can grab all the striking beauty of Madikeri at one go. 

Distance from Kannur: 112 km

Best Time: February to September

18 Madikeri Attractions

Known For : Ranipuram Malom Wildlife Sanctuary Ananthapura Lake temple

Kasargod is a small coastal town in Northern Pary of Kerala displaying a delightful blend of various religions, culture, and bounty of nature. Blessed with majestic forts, lofty hills, beautiful offbeat backwaters, temples and pristine beaches, the town oozes charm and tranquillity from every aspect. It is gaining popularity among people from nearby cities owing to the presence of luxury resorts. Kasargod is also known for its rich and glorious past, is considered to be home to some of the best-preserved forts in Kerala. The variety of art and culture of the town speaks volumes about its diversity. 

Distance from Kannur: 86 km

Best Time: September to January

29 Kasargod Attractions

Known For : Bharathapuzha River Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary Keraladeshpuram Temple

Enclosed by the Nilgiris in the east and the Arabian Sea on the west, Malappuram is a prominent district in Kerala which is commonly known as "the land on the hilltop." With ancient monuments, natural spectacles, and the meandering rivers, Malappuram is a blend of history and heritage. Home to the Zamorins of Kozhikode and legendary poets, writers and artists; the culture and traditions of this region are unmatched. It is an important religious center for Hindus and Muslims as well.

Distance from Kannur: 134 km

Best Time: July to March

21 Malappuram Attractions

Known For : Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Chembara peak Soochipara Falls

62 km off Kozhikode is Vythiri, a popular resort town famous for its old-world charm of cottages, log huts & treehouse accommodations cosily nestled in the forests of Wayanad. Situated at an altitude of 700 meters, Vythiri in Wayanad comprises of 18 villages. Vythiri is an ideal tourist destination with little cottages and resorts ornamenting its pleasant surroundings. It is the place to be in if one wants to step back a little into the past and experience the simpler cottage life while having the urban and modern facilities available on-demand to create a truly enjoyable experience.

Distance from Kannur: 131 km

Best Time: October to Apr

5 Vythiri Attractions

Known For : The Elembalai Hill Adyanpara Waterfalls Teak Museum

Enriched with raw nature, a unique blend of culture, exquisite art forms, and shadows of colonial rule, Nilambur is located in Malappuram District of Kerala. Nestled at the bank of Chaliyar River in proximity to Nilgiri Range, this small town is popularly known as 'Land of Teak Plantations'. Blessed with vibrant shades of natural beauty, the region is clustered with exotic wildlife and showcases vivid illustrations of past through several royal residencies. Nilambur, covered under vast tracks of the forest has many kinds of wood mushrooming around other than teak. 

Distance from Kannur: 146 km

Best Time: October to March

12 Nilambur Attractions

Known For : Panambur Beach St Aloysius Chapel

Located between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, the port city of Mangalore or Mangaluru is known for its swaying coconut palms, beautiful beaches, and temple architecture. It is also an important industrial, commercial, educational and healthcare hub of the state of Karnataka. Despite the growing commercialization, it provides a quick and soothing get away from the city hustle-bustle and yet preserves just the right amount of the urban glitter. It offers a pleasant natural environment and is close to perfect with its shopping attractions with grand complexes and vibrant seafood culture.

Distance from Kannur: 143 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

28 Mangalore Attractions

Known For : Dharmasthala Temple Bahubali Statue Netravathi River Barrage

Popularly known as the Land of Charity, Dharmasthala is a beautiful temple town with a blend of heritage, culture, and religion. Situated on the banks of the Nethravathi river in Karnataka, it's popularly known as a pilgrim site for the Shaiva, Vaishnava and Jaina communities. Dharmasthala Temple is a major tourist attraction that hosts 'Lakshadeepa' - a festival of lights that takes place in November - December. Another prime attraction here is the Bahubali statue, carved out of a single stone and 39 ft high. Dharmasthala has natural beauty gifted by its location, and the same is ornamented by the abundant and widespread scents of culture and spirituality in its air.

Distance from Kannur: 199 km

Best Time: October to March

8 Dharmasthala Attractions