Every traveller in Kerala has heard of Kochi’s backwaters or Wayanad’s misty hills. Yet, tucked quietly along the Malabar Coast lies a city that has been shaping the soul of Kerala for centuries — Calicut (Kozhikode).
Once a global trading hub, Calicut was where Arab merchants brought spices, Chinese traders carried silk, and Portuguese explorers discovered India’s gateway to the world. But beyond history books, today’s Calicut is a city where heritage meets hospitality, cuisine meets culture, and everyday life unfolds with effortless grace.
And that’s exactly what makes it Kerala’s most underrated travel destination.
A City Built on Stories, Not Skyscrapers
Calicut isn’t a place that rushes to impress — it unfolds slowly, like the scent of cardamom on a warm evening. Its charm lies not in grandeur but in genuineness.
Every street here whispers a story. Walk through Mananchira Square, once the royal courtyard of the Zamorin kings, and you’ll feel the echo of a regal past in its stone pathways and reflecting pools. The nearby Tali Shiva Temple, a masterpiece of Kerala architecture, offers both beauty and spiritual calm in equal measure.
Even the air carries a sense of history — the aroma of roasting coffee, coconut oil, and freshly fried banana chips filling the markets of SM Street, one of the oldest commercial lanes in Kerala.
Travel Tip: Visit SM Street in the morning for snacks, and again in the evening for the glow of streetlights and shopfront chatter — it’s a living postcard of Calicut’s everyday magic.
Where History Meets the Horizon
Few cities balance history and natural beauty as seamlessly as Calicut. The coastline stretches for miles, offering beaches that are scenic yet uncrowded.
- Kappad Beach — where Vasco da Gama first landed in 1498, forever changing global trade routes.
- Calicut Beach — perfect for sunsets, ice creams, and quiet conversations.
- Beypore — home to centuries-old wooden shipbuilding (Uru-making), where craftsmanship meets heritage.
Unlike Kerala’s more commercial coastal destinations, Calicut’s beaches feel real — alive with fishermen, children playing cricket, and locals gathering to watch the sky turn orange at dusk.
Don’t Miss: A walk along the Beypore Pier at sunset, when the sea breeze carries stories from both the past and present.
The Flavours of Malabar – A Culinary Capital
For food lovers, Calicut is nothing short of a revelation. The city’s Malabar cuisine is an art form — a fragrant mix of Arab, Portuguese, and Kerala influences.
Every meal here tells a story of connection and culture.
- Try the legendary Kozhikodan biryani, layered with spiced rice, tender meat, and fried onions.
- Sample pathiri, a soft rice bread paired with rich gravies.
- Don’t leave without tasting unniyappam or banana halwa, the sweet pride of the region.
Evening tea in Calicut is a ritual in itself — served with pazham pori (banana fritters) or samosa, accompanied by warm smiles and unhurried conversation.
Where to Eat: From heritage restaurants to modern fine dining, Calicut serves both authenticity and elegance on a plate.
Calicut Beyond the City – Nature and Culture Combined
What makes Calicut even more special is its accessibility to diverse landscapes. Within an hour’s drive, you can move from a bustling city centre to lush green countryside, tranquil rivers, and serene backwaters.
- Sarovaram Bio Park: An eco-tourism spot with boating, birdwatching, and nature trails.
- Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary: A haven for migratory birds — perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.
- Thusharagiri Waterfalls: Ideal for a half-day trip to experience Kerala’s forested highlands.
Each destination offers something uniquely Malabar — a sense of calm, community, and continuity.
The People Behind the Warmth
Kerala is known for its hospitality, but Calicut takes it a step further. There’s a gentleness in the way the city welcomes you — whether it’s a shopkeeper offering extra halwa samples or a local guiding you through an unfamiliar street.
Here, luxury isn’t defined by opulence, but by warmth. Calicut’s people make you feel like you belong — even if you’re visiting for the first time.
Why Calicut Deserves More Attention
Calicut may not shout for attention, but it quietly earns it. It’s where the soul of Kerala beats strongest — in its traditions, food, music, and unpretentious way of life.
Reasons Calicut Should Be on Every Traveller’s List:
- A blend of heritage, nature, and modern comfort rarely found together.
- Easy connectivity — Calicut International Airport is just 30 minutes away.
- Authentic local experiences — from handicrafts to street food to cultural festivals.
- Perfect weekend or short-stay destination for families, couples, and explorers.
Where to Stay
To experience Calicut’s understated luxury and cultural richness, stay where the city’s warmth meets world-class comfort — The Raviz Calicut.
Located in the heart of the city, The Raviz Calicut offers guests elegant rooms, curated dining, and a genuine connection to the Malabar spirit. Whether you’re here for a family holiday or a work trip, it’s more than just a place to stay — it’s an experience that reflects the city itself: graceful, grounded, and unforgettable.Recognized among the finest 5 star hotels in Calicut, The Raviz blends tradition with sophistication, making your Calicut journey as memorable as the city’s sunsets.