The city of Calicut came into existence in the 13th century when Udaiyavar, the king of Ernad, conquered the area around Ponniankara and built a fort at a place called Velapuram, now known as Calicut . Interestingly, the name Calicut is derived from ‘calico,’ the fine variety of hand-woven cotton cloth said to have originated from this place.This city holds tourist attractions aplenty.
Kappad is the place where Vasco da Gama set foot for the first time when he came to India on May 27, 1498. There is a small stone monument at the beach to commemorate that event. Dolphin’s Point is a good place to watch dolphins playing in the sea early in the morning. On this beach are also situated TownCenter, Lions Club, and a lighthouse.
Kozhikode beach is easily accessible from the city and provides a good view of the setting sun. Two crumbling piers, more than a hundred years old, stand out into sea at the beach. Kozhikode beach also has a marine life aquarium that remains open the whole day.
Science center and Planetarium at Jaffarkhan Colony is the best place to unravel the mysteries of the universe and get enlightened about the planets and stars as seen from the place. This planetarium has an interesting array of games, puzzles, and scientific gadgetry, which can keep a person busy the whole day, viewing and learning.
Mananchira which was the palace tank of King Mana Vikrama, has now been turned into a traditional architectural splendor with carpeted green grass and surrounded by ethnic buildings. The place also has a musical fountain and is worth visiting in Kozhikode.
