Arakkal Museum
The Arrakkal Museum is a museum dedicated to the Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal family in Kerala, south India. The museum is actually a section of the Arakkalkettu (Arakkal Palace). The durbar hall section of the palace has been converted into a museum by the Government of Kerala.
Arakkal family is the royal family which ruled Kannur for several centuries. They had family relationship with Kolathiris, the rulers of the neighboring Chirakkal kingdom. Arakkal family had trade relationship with Arabs and later with Europeans. The islands of Lakshadweep and Maldives were ruled by Arakkal family. The king of Arakkal kingdom was known as Arakkal Raja and the Queen was known as Arakkal Beevi.
Although renovated by the government, the Arakkalkettu is still owned by the Arakkal Family Trust and does not fall under the control of the country's archaeology department, the Archaeological Survey of India. The government had taken a keen interest in preserving the heritage of the Arakkal Family, which had played a prominent role in the history of Malabar. A nominal entry fee is charged by the Arakkal Family Trust from visitors to the museum.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 15 Kms
St.Angelo’s Fort
St. Angelo’s Fort (also known as Kannur Fort or Kannur Kotta), is a fort facing the Arabian Sea, situated 3 km from the town of Kannur. St. Angelo's Fort was built in 1505 by Dom Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese Viceroy of India and is on the Arabian Sea about 3 km from Kannur town. It was attacked in vain by the local Indian ruler in the Siege of Cannanore (1507).
On August 1509 Almeida, refusing to recognize Afonso de Albuquerque's as the new Portuguese governor to supersede himself, arrested him in this fortress after having fought the naval Battle of Diu. Afonso de Albuquerque was released after three months' confinement, and become governor on the arrival of the grand-marshal of Portugal with a large fleet, in October 1509.
The fort changed hands several times. In 1663 the Dutch captured it and sold it to the Arakkal Royal Family in 1772. The British conquered it in 1790 and transformed it into one of their major military stations on the Malabar Coast.
It is fairly well preserved as a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India. A painting of this fort and the fishing ferry behind it can be seen in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.
The fort is in Cannanore cantonment area. St Angelo's fort is a most important historical monument and a good tourist centre. Here Kerala Police have posted 6 Tourism Policemen for the protection and guidance to the tourists. The Moppila Bay Harbor and Arakkal Mosque are near the fort. The fort is now renovated and well-maintained under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India. Tourists are allowed entry to the fort every day of the week between 8 AM to 6 PM.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 14 Kms
Dharmadam Island
Dharmadam Island is a small 2 hectare private island in between Kannur and Thalassery. It lies 100 meters from the mainland at Dharmadam. This island, covered with coconut palms and dense bush is a beautiful sight from the Muzhappilangad beach. During low tide, one can walk out to it from the beach. Permission is required to land on the island as it is privately owned. Dharmadam, known earlier as Dharmapattanam, was a Buddhist stronghold.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 25 Kms
Ezhimala Hill
Ezhimala is a hill reaching a height of 286 protruding into Arabian Sea. It was the former capital of the ancient Mushika Kings, and is considered to be an important historical site. It is a conspicuous, isolated cluster of hills, forming a promontory, 38 km north of Kannur Town. A flourishing seaport, and center of trade around the beginning of the Common Era, it was also one of the major battle-fields of the Chola-Chera Wars of the 11th century. It is believed by some that Lord Buddha had visited Ezhimala.
Indian Naval Academy is located in Ezhimala. There is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman and the Mount Deli Lighthouse also located here. It is maintained by the Indian Navy and is a restricted area. The beach sand is of a different texture and the sea is bluer than in other areas. At the Ettikulam Bay, one can enjoy watching dolphins.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 35 Kms
Kerala Folklore Academy
For those keen to follow and understand the artistic heritage during their visits to Kerala, it would be an ideal choice to drop in at The Kerala Folklore Academy, located at Chirakkal in Kannur.
Established in 1995, welfare of the folk artistes is the prime concern of the academy. Set up by the Government of Kerala, the academy, while ensuring the welfare of folk artistes also strives for reviving, preserving and promoting the rich folk art traditions of Kerala. The academy is located by the side of the beautiful Chirakkal Lake, which is reputedly the second largest of its kind in Asia.
The academy functions from traditionally built structure called nalukettu and presently houses a folklore library, a museum and a publication department, besides the administrative departments.
The library at The Kerala Folklore Academy features over 1000 volumes on the folk art traditions of Kerala and is one of the largest of its kind and a popular haunt of scholars and researchers in the field.
And checking out the museum at the academy, one would find a collection of over 300 precious objects of folk art, including life-size replicas of various theyyams and patayani, folk and tribal musical and percussion instruments, farm implements and weapons. Some of these items are used in ritual arts like Kuthurathib, Devakoothu, Chat, Poorakali, Kaliyootu, Mudiyettu, and Kaniyarkali. The museum also has over 175 photographs that depict the drama of these art forms. One of the missions of The Kerala Folklore Academy is to compile and publish books and periodicals on folklore. The academy has already brought out fourteen volumes on the culture, art and life of the people. It also brings out a quarterly journal named Poli.These publications have gone a long way to promote awareness about folk life, art and rituals among the present generation.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 4 Kms
The Art of Coconut Toddy Tapping
Toddy tapping is an organized industry in traditional coconut growing tracts in Kerala. Coconut jaggery is made from sweet coconut toddy. Toddy on fermentation becomes an alcoholic drink. Arrack and vinegar are also manufactured from coconut toddy. Toddy is Kerala’s potent and locally produced alcohol. It has a very unique taste and is the perfect accompaniment to an authentic, local meal. The drink’s basic ingredient is collected by firm-footed men who effortlessly climb up towering trees and tap them. The process is as dangerous as it looks and very unique to the state.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 5 Kms
Hand Weaving
Kannur has been famous for its cotton handlooms since time immemorial. It is an important item for foreign trade. Several weaving centers and export flourish here. The Germans developed the Handloom industry by bringing frame looms. Earlier it was the pit looms which was traditional industry of Kannur.
The handloom products from Kannur have an unprecedented demand in USA, UK, Japan and other European countries. The inimitable quality and designs have given it a monopoly status similar to the Japanese in electronics.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 15Kkms
Kalaripayattu
Kerala Kalaripayattu Academy, formerly the Institute of Malabar Physical Culture, is situated on the Pillayar Kovil Road in Kannur, Kerala. It is a dedicated group of individuals concerned with the future of Indian martial art, especially Kalaripayattu. Kerala Kalaripayattu Academy is recognized by the Ministry of External Affairs (Government of India) and is a member of the Kerala Kalaripayattu Association under the Kerala Sports Council.
The center offers regular certification courses in Kalaripayattu, Kalari - chikitsa, massage therapy and marma science. Traditional Kerala style homes are available for long-term students and teachers and their families. Traditional Kalari treatments are also offered.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 10 Km
Madayipara
Madayipara is a significant spot owing to its bio-diversity as well as history. In the past, Madayipara was the administrative center of the Ezhimala kings. In and around Madayipara, one can find remnants from the past. At the southern side of the hill, stand the remains of a fort called Pazhi Kotta (kotta means fort in Malayalam). Here one can also find watchtowers at the four corners of the fort. Between AD 14 and AD 18, Madayipara used to be the site for the coronation ceremony of the rulers of the princely state of the erstwhile Kolathunadu.
The hillock of Madayipara, which carries several signs of historic relevance, is also a place important from a religious point of view. Here, a pond in the shape of a hand held mirror, connected to ancient Jewish settlers is another historic attraction. Similarly, a temple at this site, called Vadukunda Siva Temple and the adjoining lake, about an acre in extension form yet another attraction at Madayipara. The lake near the temple will not go dry even in hot summer months and remains a source of nourishment to life forms at Madayipara. The pooram festival of Madayi Kavu (kavu? family temples and those in the midst of thick vegetation) held at Madayipara has been responsible for much of its fame.
With regard to the bio-diversity of Madayipara, it has been found that the region contains about 300 flowering plants, about 30 varieties of grass, and several insect-eating plant species. Madayipara is also home to several rare medicinal herbs, which are sought by people from near and far off places. Coming to avian life, Madayipara sustains about 100 species of butterflies and about 150 species of birds. Among the biggest butterflies in the world, the Atlas butterfly is a visitor to Madayipara.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 20 Kms
Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach
Muzhappilangad Beach is the only drive-in beach in Kerala. It is located parallel to National Highway 17 between Kannur and Thalassery. One can drive the entire 4 km length of the beach.
There is an unpaved road winding through coconut groves leading to the beach. The beach is bordered by black rocks, which also protect it from the stronger currents of the ocean.
Muzhappilangad is the one of the important tourist destination of Kerala. This drive in beach, the second largest in India, has already entered in the world tourism map.
The shores of the Muzhappilangad beach are lined with black boulders, which protects the shores from the lashing waves and also make a natural shallow place. One can easily swim in this natural shallow pool of water without having to fear the powerful currents. One can soak up the sun while lying lazily on the rocks. It is a beach lover's paradise. The calm yet enthralling ambience of the beach is what makes it a popular getaway for tourists.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 22 Kms
Parassinikkadavu Snake Park
he Parassinikadavu Snake Park is one of the major attractions of Kannur District itself. The Snake Park, which is a subsidiary unit of the Pappinisseri Vishachikitsa Society, is the only one of its kind in the State and perhaps the whole of India. The park is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of snakes, most of which are becoming extinct gradually. There is a large collection of poisonous and non-poisonous snakes. There are three snake pits, fifteen glass cases for snakes and two large glass houses for King Cobras in the park. Other than the snakes, there are other kinds of rare animals, reptiles and birds like the endangered species of Simhavalan Monkeys and Crocodiles.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 15 kms
Pythal Mala / Vaithal Mala
Pythal Mala is an enchanting hill station, situated 4,500 ft. above sea level near the Kerala - Karnataka border, is rich in flora and fauna. It is a 6 km trek to the top of the hills. Abundant in flora and fauna, this place is now being developed as a hill resort. One has to trek 6 kms to reach the top of the hills. There is a proposal to set up a zoo at the top of the hill. The enchanting hill station offers a challenging trek to those inclined to stretch their legs. Trekkers are rewarded by a profusion of exotic flora and fauna and an exhilarating view from the top. The 300 acre wide sprawling area is a safe home to numerous birds, hundreds of butterflies, rare plants and trees. Even during this sweltering summer at Pythal Mala one can relish a real cool climate. En route to the top of the hill one can see the remains of the run down palace of the tribal king called Vaithalkon.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 55 Kms
Malayala Kala Gramam
Located at New Mahe Malayalam Kala Gramam is a centre for art and ideas which providing children and youngsters a Kalari (stage) to practice and perform all forms of fine arts. The centre offers part time as well as full time courses in painting, sculpture, music and dance and art pottery. Yoga and Sanskrit are also taught here. The fraternity centre of the Kalagramam conducts seminars, symposia, extension lectures, in-service programmes and special projects in different fields of art and humanities.
Spending a day here with the tutors, students and the exotic library is an enlightening experience for any art lover.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 32 Kms
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
The Aralam Sanctuary is located on the western slopes of the Western Ghats. It is the northern most wildlife sanctuary of Kerala. It was established in 1984. The headquarters of the sanctuary is near Iritty, a small town about 55 kms from Kannur. The Aralam Sanctuary is spread over 55 sq km of undulating forested highlands on the slopes of the Western Ghats. The highest peak here - Katti Betta - rises to a majestic 1145 m above sea level. Covered with tropical and semi evergreen forests, the Aralam Sanctuary is home to a vast variety of flora and fauna endemic to the Western Ghats. Herds of deer, elephant, boar and bison are common sights. Leopards, jungle cats and various types of squirrels are also seen here. Aralam, a village in Thalasserry, is also noted for the Central State Farm, a 3060 hectare farm started in 1971 by the Government of India. This is one of the main production centers of hybrid coconut seeds in the country.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 70 Kms
Mahe
Mahe, situated on the west coast of Kerala is a former French colony in India. Geographically situated in Kerala, politically Mahe forms part of Pondicherry Union Territory. It lies south of Mahe River near where the river meets the sea. Mahe is famous as a brisk trade center of foreign liquor. The history of Mahe is closely associated with a statue named Marianne, a proud symbol of French revolution. The freedom struggle of Mahe gathered momentum from this place. Hence, this place is now well maintained as a park in the name of Rabindranath Tagore. The Headquarters office of Mahe administration is the Government House which is a fine example of the French architecture. There is a mini forest area at the back of the Government House. From this point, the Arabian Sea, the coastline with golden sand, the Mayyazhi River and the Dharmadam island can be seen.
Other attractions include a tall flag mast, a lighthouse, remnants of a fort and the sunset. In addition to these, Mahe Boat house, 2 km from the Government house, in the Mahe River welcomes the visitors with speed boats, pedal boats and kayak boats. Some other places of interest are Thacholi Othenan’s Fort, Puzhakal Juma Masjid, St. Theresa Church, Sree Krishna Temple, St. George Fort, Puthalam Bhagavathi Temple and Sree Narayana Madam.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 35 Kms
Parassinikkadavu Temple
This centre of worship and faith has in store many unique practices and rituals, and the temple architecture itself stands testimony to this aspect. The Parassinikadavu Muthappan (Siva) Temple on the banks of the Valapatnam River attracts people from all sections of the society; irrespective of religion, caste and promotes the essence of "Vasudaiva Kutumbakam - The whole world is one family. The origin of the Muthappan temple is connected to the appearance of a child who roamed the region with a string of interesting incidents and later vanished without a trace. The incidents up to the point of his disappearance later made the denizens feel the divine presence of Muthappan (Siva) who immediately erected a place of worship, which today is popularly known as the Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple. The temple is also a popular destination for travelers and pilgrims to savor the charm of Theyyam, a ritual that is performed here on a daily basis. Men adorning masks and costumes with a riot of colors perform this temple art form and it represents conflict between good and evil, with good ultimately emerging victorious.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 15 Kms
Kavvayi Backwaters / Valiyaparamba Island
(50 kms from Kannur) –Kavvayi Backwaters located near Payyanur is the third largest backwater in Kerala and the largest one in north Kerala. The Kavvayi Kayal (Backwaters) is dotted with several small and large islands. Valiyaparamba Island is the largest among them and stretches over 16 km2. It stretches from Kavvayi near Payyannur in Kannur district to Neeleshwar in Kasargod district. There are several small and large islands in the backwater adding to its enchanting beauty. The backwaters are fed by four rivers. Kavvayi backwater is named after the Kavvayi Island close to Payyannur. Kavvayi used to be an inland port and a major administrative center during the past centuries. Now the importance of Kavvayi Island has diminished but still there are several educational institutions in this small island as a remnant of its years pride and glory.
Another major island is the Valiyaparamba island and it is the largest among them. The northern portion of Kavvayi Backwaters is also known as Valiyaparamba backwaters. The island is approximately 16 km in size with a population of 10,000. The island's main source of income comes from agriculture and fishing. A secluded beach named Valiparamba beach runs parallel to the backwaters on its western side.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 40 kms
Meenkunnu Beach
Meenkunnu Beach is endowed with vast stretch of golden sand and coconut trees. Meenkunnu beach is located in Azhikode village. It is an extension of Payyambalam beach. The name meenkunnu is a combination of two Malayalam words meen and kunnu. Meen literally means fish and kunnu a small hill.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 10 Kms
Pazhassi Dam
Pazhassi Dam is an ideal retreat for tourists; the dam site is famous for its scenic beauty. The DTPC provides pleasure boating facilities at the reservoir. Accommodation is available at the Project Inspection Bungalow. It is the only reservoir with gardens in Kannur district. The garden is a good attraction with sculptures. The added attractions of the place are the gardens and children's park. The Buddha's mountain at Pazhassi and the sculpture of Pazhassi King are visual delights.
The dam site is across the Valapattanam River, near Kuyiloor (Kuyiloor puzha). This dam is near to the birth place of Pazhassi Raja. So the dam named after Raja.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 30 Kms
Kizhunna-Ezhara Beach
Kizhunna-Ezhara Beach is located 11km from Kannur. Kizhunna Ezhara is enclosed between two Redstone cliffs. The crescent-shaped shoreline is shallow and the sea is calm for most of the year except during the monsoons. It is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. This is one of the most secluded beaches in Kerala.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 22 Kms
Thottada Beach
Thottada Beach is a beautiful beach in Kannur. It is situated at Thottada just about 2.5 km from the NH 17 connecting Kannur town and Thalassery; it is hardly 7 km from Kannur town if you come through aadi Kadalai Temple route. The virgin beach 800 meter long is ideal for sun bathing. The Thottada River (a small one) flows into one end of the beach. There is also a dam/bund built across the river 3 decades ago to keep the fresh water from salt water. Away from the sea the river spreads to form swamps which make a great in habitat for various birds and fishes.
Distance from Kairali Heritage Resort: 10 Kms
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