Architectural Heritage
Wander the streets taking in the architectural jewels of Arabic, European and Indian influences – from 14th-century mosques, cathedrals and temples to bronze sculptures scattered throughout the city.
Situated along the southwest coast of India in the state of Kerala, the former trading hub of Calicut (also known as Kozhikode) is a major centre for business and agriculture. Dubbed the “city of spices”, Calicut has much to offer with its beaches, green forests, heritage sites and wildlife sanctuaries. Popular attractions include Mananchira Square, Kozhikode Beach and Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary.
See the city unfold its deep history and beauty with cheap flights to Calicut! Calicut is home to Kozhikode Calicut International Airport (CCJ), a 60-minute drive from the city centre.
Flight Route | Airline | Trip Type | Travel Dates | Searched | Price From |
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Wander the streets taking in the architectural jewels of Arabic, European and Indian influences – from 14th-century mosques, cathedrals and temples to bronze sculptures scattered throughout the city.
Picture long walks on the beach, tanning under swaying coconut trees, and water-skiing off sugary beaches - Calicut’s beaches welcome you to their beauty and activities.
Waterfalls, lush green rainforests, and serene rivers offer sailing, trekking, birdwatching and fishing for adventurous travellers.
Essential details you need to know before your trip
Country | India |
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Currency | Indian Rupee |
Language | Hindi / Marathi / Tamil / Malayalam |
Hub Airport | Kozhikode Calicut International Airport (CCJ) |
Airline | Air India |
Time Zone | GMT + 05:30 |
Travel Adaptor | Type C / D / G |
If you can stand the heat, summer (March-May) is a great time to visit Calicut to avoid torrential downpours and humid monsoon season, which takes place from June to October. Winter offers a more pleasant experience between October and February, when temperatures cool down to an average of 22°C, making it ideal for sightseeing. If you’re around between February and April, check out the Pooram, Memunda, Shivrati and Kaliatta Mahotasavam festivals.
Average temperature (°C) & rainfall (mm) per month
Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Low °C | 22°C | 23°C | 25°C | 26°C | 26°C | 24°C | 23°C | 24°C | 24°C | 24°C | 23°C | 22°C |
High °C | 32°C | 32°C | 33°C | 33°C | 33°C | 30°C | 28°C | 29°C | 30°C | 30°C | 31°C | 32°C |
Rainfall (mm) | 4 | 6 | 19 | 91 | 286 | 814 | 847 | 461 | 246 | 269 | 133 | 29 |
Deemed as one of the most important centres for trade and business in Kerala, Calicut is fairly untouched on the tourist map. Having been under Islamic, Portuguese, Dutch and British rule, the city still bears traces of its colonial past in the way of its buildings, temples, and art. Once a major trading post, Calicut is a shopper’s paradise with its wonderful spice markets, streets brimming with clothing and cosmetics shops, and shopping malls aplenty. Treat yourself to all the cotton, coconut, coffee, tea, pepper and ginger this city has to offer.
Calicut now harbours a large student population, and its nightlife will have you hopping between its lively wine bars and hotel clubs. As the food capital of northern Kerala, foodies are in for a treat with its southern Malabar cuisine spanning Mananchira Square and along the beach.
Make sure you take in a backwater cruise experience along the Canoli and Kallai rivers and if you really want to get close to nature, book a stay on a luxurious houseboat. Bird lovers can visit the famous Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, and beach bums can spend their days soaking up the golden sands of Kappad and Payyoli beaches. Beypore Beach is perfect for relaxing massages, indulging in delicious specialities, and fun water sports. Adventure seekers can enjoy trekking, rock climbing, and swimming beneath waterfalls throughout Calicut’s lush forests.
Compare several airlines, and book your cheap flights to Calicut online at Travelstart!
Calicut, like much of India, is affected by poverty so use common sense and remain vigilant as you would in any other unfamiliar country. Travel insurance to cover theft and medical expenses is highly recommended.
Avoid carrying large sums of cash and valuables, as pick-pocketing does happen. Avoid travelling alone at night and through isolated areas (especially women). It is recommended that you familiarise yourself with the local laws and customs before arriving.
Food poisoning is a big problem throughout India. Avoid street food and stick to busy restaurants. Meat and shellfish should be avoided and only drink bottled water.
Malaria, dengue and other insect-borne diseases are prevalent, so medication is required and the necessary precautions should be taken to avoid bites. Immunisation against yellow fever, hepatitis A & B, typhoid, TB, cholera, Japanese B Encephalitis and rabies is recommended. Ensure that other routine vaccinations are up to date.
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