Kannur is a beautiful and vibrant city in Kerala, known for its beaches, history, and culture. For first-time visitors, it’s essential to know a few tips and important contacts to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to travel safely in Kannur, top travel tips, and important contacts that will help you during your visit.
1. General Travel Safety Tips
A. Keep Your Belongings Secure
- Pickpocketing is uncommon but can happen in crowded areas. Always keep an eye on your valuables, especially in markets and public places.
- Use a money belt or neck pouch to store your passport, cash, and credit cards securely when you’re out and about.
B. Stay Hydrated and Protect Yourself from the Sun
- The climate in Kannur can be hot and humid, so it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Apply sunscreen regularly to avoid sunburn, and wear a hat or sunglasses for extra protection.
C. Follow Local Customs and Traditions
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites like temples or churches. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops in such places.
- Respect local culture: When visiting temples, remove shoes at the entrance and avoid loud behavior.
D. Transportation Safety
- Always use official taxis, auto-rickshaws, or ride-sharing apps like Uber for safer transportation.
- If renting a vehicle, wear a helmet for safety and adhere to traffic rules.
- Use seat belts in cars, even for short trips.
E. Be Cautious on Beaches
- While beaches like Payyambalam Beach and Muzhappilangad Beach are safe for swimming, always check the weather conditions and warning signs.
- Be mindful of the strong currents and tides at some beaches, especially during the monsoon season (June to September).
2. Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Kannur
A. Best Time to Visit Kannur
- October to March: This is the most ideal time to visit Kannur when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Monsoon season (June to September): While Kannur’s lush greenery is beautiful during the monsoons, this is not the best time for beach activities due to heavy rainfall.
B. Currency and Payment Options
- Currency: The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Most shops, restaurants, and hotels accept cash, while credit/debit cards are accepted in major establishments.
- ATMs: There are plenty of ATMs across Kannur, including those from ICICI, SBI, and HDFC. Use them for cash withdrawals, especially if you’re traveling to more remote areas.
- Forex Services: You can exchange foreign currency at local banks, Forex agencies, and the Kannur International Airport.
C. Language and Communication
- The primary language spoken in Kannur is Malayalam, but Hindi and English are commonly understood in tourist areas.
- Learning a few basic Malayalam words can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
D. Connectivity
- Mobile Network: All major Indian mobile networks (Airtel, Jio, Vodafone) have coverage in Kannur. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for your convenience.
- Wi-Fi: Many hotels, cafes, and restaurants in Kannur offer free Wi-Fi. It’s good practice to ask for the password when you check in.
E. Health and Medical Tips
- Carry a small medical kit with essential medicines such as pain relievers, band-aids, and stomach medicines.
- Stay hydrated in the hot climate to avoid dehydration.
- Vaccinations: Make sure you have up-to-date vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Tetanus) before traveling.
- Local Water: It’s best to drink bottled water or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases.
3. Important Contacts for Tourists in Kannur
A. Emergency Numbers
- Police: 100 (For emergency law enforcement help)
- Ambulance: 108 (For medical emergencies)
- Fire Services: 101 (For fire emergencies)
- Tourist Police: 9446445000 (Helpline for tourist safety and issues)
B. Hospitals and Medical Centers
- Aster MIMS Kannur
- Location: Near Kannur Railway Station
- Phone: +91 497 2766000
- Facilities: Major multi-specialty hospital with emergency services.
- Mujhappilangad Medical Center
- Location: Near Muzhappilangad Beach
- Phone: +91 497 2799025
- Facilities: Local clinic for basic healthcare needs and emergencies.
C. Tourist Information and Help
- Kannur Tourism Office
- Location: Near Kannur Railway Station
- Phone: +91 471 2321132
- Email: keralatourism@keralatourism.org
- Services: Provides maps, brochures, and information on local attractions, accommodations, and events.
D. Local Transport Services
- Kannur Railway Station
- Phone: +91 497 2700111
- Services: For train bookings, schedules, and inquiries.
- Kannur International Airport
- Phone: +91 497 2701818
- Services: For flight information, bookings, and general inquiries.
E. Taxi and Car Hire Services
- Kannur Taxi Services
- Phone: +91 497 2702555
- Services: For hiring cabs and auto-rickshaws for city tours and airport transfers.
- Evaride Smart Mobility
- Phone: +91 94963 69895
- Services: Rent bikes and cars, great for exploring Kannur at your own pace.
4. General Travel Tips
A. Dress Code
- While Kannur is a relatively relaxed city, it is important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites like temples and churches. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should avoid wearing shorts.
B. Food and Water Safety
- Avoid street food in very crowded areas if you have a sensitive stomach.
- Stick to bottled water and make sure the seal is unbroken.
C. Cultural Etiquette
- Greet with respect: In Kerala, people often greet with a namaste or a simple handshake.
- When visiting temples, remove your shoes at the entrance and be mindful of temple rules.
D. Shopping Tips
- Bargain in local markets like Thalassery Market or Kannur Market for handicrafts and textiles.
- Always check prices before buying to avoid being overcharged, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
5. Safety Tips for Solo Travelers
- Trust your instincts: If something feels off, it’s better to be cautious and leave the area.
- Stay connected: Share your itinerary with family or friends back home and keep your phone charged.
- Stay in well-lit, busy areas: At night, avoid dark and isolated areas of the city.
Conclusion
Kannur is a wonderful city with a rich cultural history, and by following these safety tips, essential contacts, and general travel advice, you’ll be able to explore the city with confidence and peace of mind. Make sure to use these resources to stay safe and make the most out of your visit to this beautiful Kerala destination.