Top 21 Weekend Getaways from Kozhikode for a One-Day Trip

Kozhikode (Calicut) is a historic city known for its spice trade legacy, beaches, lush greenery, and cultural richness. Surrounded by a variety of stunning destinations, Kozhikode offers excellent options for one-day trips to escape the city life. Here’s a detailed guide to the Top 21 Weekend Getaways from Kozhikode, complete with reasons to visit, major attractions, best times, and dining recommendations.

1. Kappad Beach

Why You Should Visit:

Located just 18 km from Kozhikode, Kappad Beach holds historical significance as the landing site of Vasco da Gama in 1498.

Major Attractions:

Vasco da Gama Memorial: Commemorates the arrival of the Portuguese explorer.
Relaxing Atmosphere: A clean and peaceful beach ideal for a morning stroll.
Backwater Exploration: Connects with the nearby Elathur backwaters.

Best Time to Visit:

Early morning or evening (6:00 AM – 7:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Kappad Beach Resort Café: Known for fresh seafood dishes.
Malabar Spice Restaurant: Offers Kerala-style meals.

2. Beypore Port and Beach

Why You Should Visit:

Located 10 km from Kozhikode, Beypore is famous for its historic port and traditional shipbuilding industry.

Major Attractions:

Beypore Uru (Ships): Witness artisans constructing traditional wooden ships.
Beypore Beach: A serene and less-crowded beach perfect for relaxation.
Fishing Harbour: Observe the bustling activity of local fishermen.

Best Time to Visit:

Morning to afternoon (7:00 AM – 3:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Beypore Marina Café: Offers seafood delicacies.
Captain’s Lounge: Known for its snacks and beverages.

3. Thusharagiri Waterfalls

Why You Should Visit:

Located 50 km from Kozhikode, Thusharagiri Waterfalls is a stunning natural escape surrounded by greenery.

Major Attractions:

Three-Tiered Waterfalls: Perfect for nature photography.
Trekking Trails: A moderately challenging trek leading to the falls.
Peaceful Ambiance: A great spot for picnics.

Best Time to Visit:

Monsoon and post-monsoon mornings (6:00 AM – 12:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Thusharagiri Food Corner: Known for snacks and tea.
Nature’s Nest Dhaba: Offers authentic Kerala meals.

4. Payyoli Beach

Why You Should Visit:

Located 35 km from Kozhikode, Payyoli Beach is known for its calm waters and seasonal turtle nesting.

Major Attractions:

Clean Beach: Ideal for family outings and walks.
Turtle Conservation Efforts: A unique experience during nesting season (Nov – Jan).

Best Time to Visit:

Morning to evening (6:00 AM – 6:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Coastal Aroma Café: Offers snacks and seafood.
Beach Retreat Dhaba: Serves Kerala meals.

5. Elathur Backwaters

Why You Should Visit:

Located 12 km from Kozhikode, Elathur is a serene destination featuring calm backwaters and mangroves.

Major Attractions:

Backwater Rides: Explore the natural beauty by boat.
Birdwatching: Spot herons, egrets, and kingfishers.

Best Time to Visit:

Morning to early afternoon (7:00 AM – 2:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Elathur Café: Known for light snacks.
Backwater Breeze Dhaba: Offers traditional Kerala meals.

6. Vellari Mala (Camel’s Hump Mountains)

Why You Should Visit:

Located 55 km from Kozhikode, Vellari Mala is a beautiful trekking destination with breathtaking landscapes.

Major Attractions:

Waterfalls and Streams: Discover hidden cascades while trekking.
Scenic Vistas: Ideal for photography and picnics.

Best Time to Visit:

Morning to afternoon (6:00 AM – 2:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Trek Base Café: Serves tea and snacks.
Mountain View Dhaba: Known for local meals.

7. Kakkayam Dam and Peruvannamuzhi Reservoir

Why You Should Visit:

Located 45 km from Kozhikode, this serene dam is surrounded by dense forests and offers stunning views.

Major Attractions:

Wildlife Spotting: Look out for elephants and other species.
Boating Activities: Explore the reservoir by boat.

Best Time to Visit:

Morning to afternoon (7:00 AM – 3:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Reservoir View Café: Known for simple meals.
Forest Retreat Dhaba: Offers snacks and drinks.

8. Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary

Why You Should Visit:

Located 19 km from Kozhikode, Kadalundi is a paradise for birdwatchers with over 60 migratory bird species.

Major Attractions:

Birdwatching: Spot flamingos, sandpipers, and kingfishers.
Mangrove Forests: Ideal for eco-tourism enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit:

Early morning (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Sanctuary Dhaba: Known for tea and Kerala snacks.
Riverside Café: Offers local meals.

9. Kozhippara Waterfalls

Why You Should Visit:

Located 60 km from Kozhikode, Kozhippara Waterfalls is an unspoiled gem amidst the forests.

Major Attractions:

Natural Pools: Perfect for swimming.
Trekking Routes: Explore the lush surroundings.

Best Time to Visit:

Monsoon mornings (6:00 AM – 11:00 AM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Waterfall Corner Café: Serves refreshments.
Hilltop Dhaba: Known for Kerala thalis.

10. Mananchira Square

Why You Should Visit:

Located in Kozhikode city, this cultural hub is a great spot for a relaxing evening.

Major Attractions:

Mananchira Tank: A historic reservoir.
Surrounding Gardens: Ideal for leisurely strolls.

Best Time to Visit:

Evening (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Paragon Restaurant: Famous for Malabar biryani.
Sagar Restaurant: Known for seafood and local meals.

11. Nilambur Teak Museum

Why You Should Visit:

Located 60 km from Kozhikode, this is the world’s first teak museum and is perfect for history and nature enthusiasts.

Major Attractions:

Teak Exhibits: Learn about the history, uses, and significance of teak.
Botanical Garden: Walk through a lush garden filled with diverse plant species.
Nature Trails: Explore nearby pathways surrounded by greenery.

Best Time to Visit:

Morning to early afternoon (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Teak Town Café: Offers light snacks and beverages.
Nilambur Retreat Restaurant: Known for traditional Kerala meals.

12. Silent Valley National Park

Why You Should Visit:

Located 85 km from Kozhikode, Silent Valley is a pristine rainforest teeming with rare flora and fauna.

Major Attractions:

Guided Safaris: Spot exotic animals like the lion-tailed macaque and Malabar civet.
Kunthi River: A serene river flowing through the park, perfect for nature walks.
Nature Photography: Capture stunning views of unspoiled wilderness.

Best Time to Visit:

Winter mornings (November – February) (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Forest Retreat Café: Serves snacks and drinks.
Parkside Dhaba: Offers Kerala thalis.

13. Lokanarkavu Temple

Why You Should Visit:

Located 50 km from Kozhikode, this ancient temple is steeped in mythology and history.

Major Attractions:

Intricate Carvings: Admire the architecture and woodwork of this centuries-old temple.
Festivals: Experience vibrant cultural events, especially during the Pooram festival.
Martial Art Demonstrations: Witness traditional Kalaripayattu performances.

Best Time to Visit:

Morning to noon (6:00 AM – 12:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Temple View Café: Offers tea and light snacks.
Heritage Dhaba: Known for simple vegetarian meals.

14. Vadakara (Moorad River Backwaters)

Why You Should Visit:

Located 48 km from Kozhikode, Vadakara offers scenic backwaters and a relaxing atmosphere.

Major Attractions:

Houseboat Cruises: Explore the serene backwaters of the Moorad River.
Traditional Village Life: Witness the charm of Kerala’s rural life.

Best Time to Visit:

Morning to afternoon (7:00 AM – 2:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Backwater Retreat Dhaba: Serves seafood and traditional meals.
Riverside Café: Known for tea and light snacks.

15. Thikkoti Lighthouse

Why You Should Visit:

Located 35 km from Kozhikode, Thikkoti Lighthouse is a historic structure with stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

Major Attractions:

Lighthouse Views: Climb to the top for panoramic coastal vistas.
Rocky Shoreline: A great spot for photography and relaxation.

Best Time to Visit:

Morning to early afternoon (7:00 AM – 1:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Seaside Dhaba: Offers seafood and Kerala meals.
Lighthouse Café: Known for snacks and drinks.

16. Kannur St. Angelo Fort

Why You Should Visit:

Located 90 km from Kozhikode, this historic Portuguese fort offers a glimpse into colonial history.

Major Attractions:

Fort Architecture: Explore the well-preserved bastions and watchtowers.
Coastal Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.

Best Time to Visit:

Morning to noon (7:00 AM – 12:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Fort View Restaurant: Known for Kerala fish curries.
Kannur Thali House: Offers vegetarian and seafood thalis.

17. Parappalli Beach

Why You Should Visit:

Located 40 km from Kozhikode, Parappalli Beach is a quiet and scenic spot perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Major Attractions:

Pristine Shoreline: Enjoy the untouched beauty of the beach.
Sunset Views: A stunning location for photography and evening strolls.

Best Time to Visit:

Evening (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Beachside Café: Offers snacks and beverages.
Seaside Dhaba: Known for fresh seafood.

18. Kakkayam Waterfalls and Dam

Why You Should Visit:

Located 50 km from Kozhikode, Kakkayam is a picturesque destination with lush surroundings and waterfalls.

Major Attractions:

Waterfalls: A tranquil spot ideal for nature lovers.
Dam Views: A peaceful area for relaxation and photography.

Best Time to Visit:

Morning to afternoon (7:00 AM – 2:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Damside Café: Known for light snacks and tea.
Mountain Retreat Dhaba: Offers Kerala thalis.

19. Malabar Backwaters, Vadakara

Why You Should Visit:

Located 48 km from Kozhikode, the Malabar Backwaters offer a peaceful retreat with serene waterways.

Major Attractions:

Houseboat Rides: Relax while cruising through the backwaters.
Mangrove Forests: A natural haven for birdwatchers.

Best Time to Visit:

Morning to evening (7:00 AM – 4:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Backwater Retreat Café: Serves traditional Kerala meals.
Vadakara Dhaba: Known for snacks and drinks.

20. Kalpetta (Wayanad Foothills)

Why You Should Visit:

Located 85 km from Kozhikode, Kalpetta offers stunning views of the Wayanad hills and plantations.

Major Attractions:

Coffee Plantations: Walk through sprawling coffee estates.
Chembra Peak (Viewpoint): Perfect for a short trek.

Best Time to Visit:

Morning to early afternoon (7:00 AM – 1:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Coffee Trails Café: Known for aromatic coffee and light meals.
Wayanad Retreat: Offers local dishes.

21. Arippara Waterfalls

Why You Should Visit:

Located 45 km from Kozhikode, this hidden gem is a perfect spot for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Major Attractions:

Natural Pools: Enjoy swimming in crystal-clear water.
Surrounding Greenery: A great spot for picnics and photography.

Best Time to Visit:

Morning (6:00 AM – 12:00 PM).

Restaurants Nearby:

Waterfall Café: Offers tea and snacks.
Arippara Retreat Dhaba: Known for local meals.

Conclusion

Kozhikode is surrounded by a treasure trove of destinations, from pristine beaches and waterfalls to historic forts and serene backwaters. These 21 weekend getaways offer an ideal mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, all within a day’s trip. Use this guide to explore the best spots and savor the recommended dining options for a memorable journey. Happy traveling!