Kozhikode, also called Calicut, was the capital of the Zamorins and a major spice trading centre. Vasco da Gama landed here in 1498, and the city is still known as the "City of Spices".
Today it is North Kerala's major hub, with Kozhikode International Airport (CCJ), a busy railway station and quick access to Wayanad.
Why Kozhikode attracts so many travellers
Kozhikode is loved for its food, culture and convenience.
- Malabar cuisine: world-famous biriyani, halwa and seafood.
- History: a trading port with centuries of maritime stories.
- Beaches: Kozhikode Beach for sunsets and Kappad Beach for history.
- Shopping: SM Street for halwa, banana chips and local goods.
- Connectivity: international airport and railway station, and the gateway to Wayanad.
Top attractions in Kozhikode
Most sights are free and easy to combine in a day.
Kozhikode Beach
A sunset favourite with two old piers extending into the sea and food stalls in the evening.
SM Street (Sweet Meat Street)
The busiest street in the city, famous for Kozhikodan halwa and banana chips.
Tip: Try several halwa varieties before buying.
Kappad Beach
The historic spot where Vasco da Gama landed in 1498, marked by a stone monument.
Beypore Port and Uru Making
An ancient port where traditional wooden ships called Uru are still built.
Mananchira Square
The historic heart of the city with a large pond, good for evening walks.
Things to do in Kozhikode
A food-focused day works best, with beach time in the evening.
- Go on a food tour for authentic Malabar biriyani.
- Shop for halwa and spices at SM Street.
- Watch the sunset at Kozhikode Beach with local snacks.
- Walk on the Beypore pier.
- Visit the Pazhassiraja Museum.
- Take a day trip to Wayanad via the Thamarassery Ghat.
Latest Kozhikode travel updates (October 2026)
The Hindu, Onmanorama, The Times of India and Mathrubhumi English have reported several developments in and around Kozhikode. Confirm details locally before you travel.
- Flights: Qatar Airways has resumed daily flights to Kozhikode, and Air Arabia has resumed its nonstop service between Ras Al Khaimah and Kozhikode.
- Malabar River Festival: the 12th edition was held in Kozhikode, but kayaking events were suspended or cancelled at times because of heavy rain and flooding. Check the schedule if you plan to attend.
- Port city plan: the Chief Minister has said Kozhikode will be developed as a port city under Mission Samudra, including a cruise terminal plan.
- Thamarassery Ghat: traffic curbs have been imposed during heavy rain and landslip risk. This affects the road from Kozhikode to Wayanad, so allow extra time.
- Kakkayam Dam: boating has revived as water levels rose.
- Malabar tourism: a Mathrubhumi tourism conclave proposed a Malabar Travel Mart, and experts say Kozhikode and Wayanad could lead the region's next tourism boom.
Best time to visit Kozhikode
October to March has cooler, drier weather. Airport and railway taxi services run year-round and at all hours.
Where to stay and what to eat
Stay near the beach or in the city centre depending on your plans.
- Luxury and business hotels in the city.
- Budget city hotels.
- Beachside homestays.
- Food to try: Kozhikodan biriyani, halwa in many colours, banana chips, kallummakkaya fry, and milk sarbath.
How to reach Kozhikode and taxi fares
Kozhikode is well connected, and taxis are available 24/7 from the airport and railway station.
Typical taxi costs with Kerala Online Taxi:
- Kozhikode Airport (CCJ) to city: from ₹600.
- Railway station pickup: from ₹400.
- Kozhikode Airport to Wayanad: from ₹2,800.
- Kozhikode to Kannur: about ₹2,500 to ₹3,500.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kozhikode the same as Calicut?
Yes. Calicut is the older, English name for Kozhikode.
How many days do I need in Kozhikode?
One to two days cover the beaches, SM Street and a food tour.
How far is Wayanad from Kozhikode?
Roughly 85 to 95 km, about 3 hours by road via Thamarassery Ghat.
Is airport taxi available at night?
Yes. Our airport and railway taxi service operates 24/7.
Ready to plan your Kerala trip?
Book a comfortable taxi with an experienced local driver.