Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, offers a blend of traditional markets and modern shopping hubs where you can find great deals, discounts, and tax-free shopping options. Here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 places where tourists can enjoy shopping in Kozhikode, complete with discounts and tax-free options.
1. SM Street (Sweet Meat Street)
- Overview: This is the heart of Kozhikode’s shopping scene, known for offering a wide variety of items including textiles, handicrafts, spices, and more.
- Discounts & Tax-Free: Local handicrafts, spices, and textiles are available at reasonable prices with options to negotiate.
- Must-Try Items: Kozhikode Halwa, traditional Kerala textiles, and local spices.
- Location: SM Street, Kozhikode
2. HiLITE Mall
- Overview: A modern shopping mall with branded stores, offering a variety of products from clothing to electronics, and more.
- Discounts & Tax-Free: Periodic sales and clearance discounts are available for various items.
- Must-Try: Branded fashion, electronics, and accessories.
- Location: Kozhikode Bypass, Kozhikode
3. Focus Mall
- Overview: This is another popular mall in Kozhikode offering a mix of fashion, home goods, and entertainment.
- Discounts & Tax-Free: Special discounts are often available during festivals and clearance events.
- Must-Try: Fashion clothing, electronics, and footwear.
- Location: Rajaji Road, Kozhikode
4. Sarovaram Bio Park
- Overview: Not only a beautiful park but also a place for local crafts and handmade products.
- Discounts & Tax-Free: A tax-free shopping experience for eco-friendly and locally made products.
- Must-Try: Wooden handicrafts, organic items, and souvenirs.
- Location: Kozhikode
5. Kuttichira
- Overview: Known for its traditional Kerala shops offering artifacts and handwoven items.
- Discounts & Tax-Free: You can find many locally crafted items at discounted rates, especially during off-peak seasons.
- Must-Try: Kerala traditional artifacts, handicrafts, and souvenir items.
- Location: Kuttichira, Kozhikode
6. Tali Market
- Overview: A popular local market for a mix of textiles, spices, and street food.
- Discounts & Tax-Free: Discounts on various products are common, and the market offers tax-free shopping on select items.
- Must-Try: Spices, tea, and traditional Kerala clothing.
- Location: Tali, Kozhikode
7. Paragon Restaurant & Shop
- Overview: Known for its famous biryanis and dishes, Paragon also has a store where you can shop for local items.
- Discounts & Tax-Free: You can purchase locally made products, often at discounted prices.
- Must-Try: Kozhikode Halwa, traditional spices, and home décor items.
- Location: Kannur Road, Near CH Overbridge, Kozhikode
8. Mananchira Square
- Overview: A public space surrounded by shops offering a variety of traditional Kerala textiles and handicrafts.
- Discounts & Tax-Free: Enjoy tax-free shopping on handicrafts and textiles.
- Must-Try: Kerala sarees, cotton textiles, and souvenirs.
- Location: Mananchira Square, Kozhikode
9. Kallayi Road
- Overview: Known for its old-school shopping lanes, you’ll find unique items such as handmade goods and textiles.
- Discounts & Tax-Free: Great discounts on locally produced goods and often tax-free shopping on textiles.
- Must-Try: Traditional Kerala saris, handwoven garments, and local handicrafts.
- Location: Kallayi Road, Kozhikode
10. Mathrubhumi Bookstore
- Overview: A haven for book lovers offering a great collection of regional literature, magazines, and stationery.
- Discounts & Tax-Free: Discounts on books and stationery.
- Must-Try: Malayalam literature, novels, and stationery.
- Location: Mavoor Road, Kozhikode
Shopping Tips for Tourists
- Bargain: Bargaining is a common practice in many street markets, especially for local goods and souvenirs.
- Tax-Free Goods: Some stores, especially those selling local crafts and textiles, offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Be sure to ask the store staff for details.
- Best Time for Discounts: During festivals (such as Onam) and clearance sales, you’ll find great discounts on clothing, spices, and souvenirs.
- Carry Cash: Many street vendors and local shops may only accept cash, so keep some handy.
This comprehensive list will help you navigate Kozhikode’s shopping scene with ease and make the most of your time exploring the city’s markets!