Kozhikode (Calicut) |
Calicut derives its name from the fortified palace "koyil kotta" which was built by a Samoothiri ruler. Presently known as Kozhikode, the former Calicut was known throughout the world as an important trading centre of the east from early times. |
| Calicut was also famous for the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama's first stop to
India. The place also witnessed bitter rivalries between the local rulers and the foreign
powers for the domination of trade in Malabar. Interestingly, Calicut has also lent its
name to `calico', the fine variety of handwoven cotton cloth said to have origiated in
this place. Today, Calicut is an important trading centre for timber and tiles and the shopping ground for its famous delicacy among sweets, `Calicut halwa'. ACCESS Calicut has an airport and is well-connected through domestic airlines. Kozhikode Railway Station is linked by to major cities in the country and Government-run and private bus services connect Calicut to several tourist and business centres in South India. PLACES OF INTEREST Dolphin's Point (sea beach), Pazhassirajah Museum, Art Gallery, Krishna Menon Museum and Mananchira. EXCURSIONS Kallai (timber trade centre, 6 km), Beypore (ship building centre, 11 km), Badgara (commercial centre and also famous for martial arts, 48 km), Tellicherry (famous trading centre, 98 km), and Sultan Battery (famous trading centre, 98 km). ACCOMMODATION Hotel Malabar Palace, G.H. Road, Calicut. Phone: 0495-60211. Hotel Malabar Mansion KTDC, S.M. Street, Calicut. Phone: 722391, 722392 |