Kannur

Kannur or Cannannore is a town of great historical importance and was the capital of erstwhile Kolathiri Rajas, the ancient town had fallen to European forces in several occasions. In 15th century, the Portuguese were the first to establish a settlement here. The first Portuguese Viceroy built St. Angelo’s Fort in the city in 1505. The Portuguese factory built by Cabral in1501was captured by the Dutch in 1663.The history of Kannur is synonymous with the history of the fort. The Dutch sold the fort to the Arakkal family in 1772. The Arakkal Ali Rajas were the only Muslim royal family in Kerala. In 1790, the British, who rebuilt it and made it their military station, captured the fort. Presently, the fort is under the authority of the Archaeological Department of the Government of India. Arakkal Kettu is the palace of the Arakkal Ali Rajas. The historical town was formerly a major port area and is mentioned as "a great emporia of spice trade" in Marco Polo's travel records. Today, it is known as the 'weaver city' due to the thriving handloom industry. It is also an important center of cashew nut trading.

                              Kannur bordered with the Western Ghats in the east (Coorg district of Karnataka State), Kozhikode and Wayanad districts in the south, Arabian Sea in the West and Kasaragod in the north. The district itself, which shares much of this natural splendour, has been a key contributor to the cultural, religious, political and industrial heritage of the State. It has a long coastline (about 152 km.), interspersed with many rivers, coconut - fringed lagoons and beautiful backwaters In addition; Kannur enjoys the credit of having been the cradle of many a colourful folk art and folk music of Kerala. Theyyam and Koodiyattam were nurtured and nourished by artistes from Kannur. There are many good beaches in and around Kannur. The district is bounded by a wealth of natural beauty. It has extensive forest areas, which may be classified under two heads namely reserve forests and vested forests.

Tourist Season - August to March

Tourist information offices

District Tourism Promotion Council, Near Civil Station, 
Kannur - Tel: 091 - 497 - 506336, 700190

How to Reach

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode  - 93kms

Official web: http://kannur.nic.in

Official Tourism web: http://www.dtpckannur.com