There is more to Kerala than the often seen images of Kathakali maestros, boat houses and Ayurvedic wellness centres. This small coastal state, nestled between the western coastal line and the Western Ghats, is dotted with pleasant beaches, hill stations, back waters and vast expanses of greenery. The historical monuments and cultural components add to the tourists' fascination. This time take a trip to the little known destinations in the northern parts of the state.
Guarding the town
The picturesque Bekal Fort in Bekal, Kasargod, is now familiar as the location of film songs and music albums. The huge structure on the rocky projection offers a magnificent view of the sea and the beach.
Its links with local rulers like Kolathiri, Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan and the British invaders draw visitors interested in history. The fort spread over 40 acres is more than 300 years old. It is eight km away from the nearest town of Kanhangad and 18km from Kasargod town.
Two famous forts located along the coastline of Kannur stand as reminders of the colonial era. The St. Angelo Fort built by the Portuguese in 1505, is just three km away from Kannur town. The Moppila Bay, a natural harbour and the Arakkal Mosque of the famous Arakkal family are close by.
The famous Thalassery fort is located in the heart of Thalassery town, which is 22km away from Kannur city and known as an important cultural and political centre in Malabar.
By the sea
Muzhappilangad Beach, which has recently emerged as one of the favourite tourist spots, is the longest natural drive-in beach in Asia. Muzhappilangad is a small village in Kannur and lies on the Kannur-Thalassery route. The long four-km -ride along the sand is the main attraction here. Approximately 100-200m south of the beach lies a private island called the Dharmadam Island.
Other beaches:Kannur: Payyambalam beach, Thalassery beach, Ezharakkadappuram, Meenkunnu, Azheekkal; Kozhikode: Kappad, Majeeswaram.
Pilgrims' destinations
Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad
An early morning visit to this ancient temple located at an altitude of 900m on the Brahmagiri hills, surrounded by hills and lush green forests, is a nature lover's delight. The temple devoted to Lord Vishnu is situated 32 km away from Mananthavady, the nearest town. On the north western side of the temple, around one km away, lies the famous Papaanasini, a small mountain stream originating from the Brahmagiri hills. Devotees believe that a cold dip in the stream washes away all the sins and believers from far off places come here to perform the last rites.
Parassini Madappura, Kannur
Parassinikkadavu, a village on the bank of Valapattinam river, is famous for the Muthappan Madappura (16km from Kannur town), a worship place dedicated to the Theyyam deity —Muthappan. Parassinkkadavu Snake Park is another tourist spot near the temple.
Kottiyoor Temple, Kannur
Located near Bavali river and Paalukaachi hill in Kottiyoor is another temple situated in the depths of the forest, surrounded by hills and mountain streams. This is believed to be the place where the famous yagna of Daksha, or the Dakshayaagam in the Puranas, took place. Devotees from all parts of Malabar pour in during the festival held in mid-May every year. It is 70 km away from Kannur town and is well-connected by road from Thalassery, Kannur and Mananthavady.
Mahe Church
Mahe or Mayyazhi, whcih means the “eyebrow of the sea”, a French colony and now a part of the of the Union Territory of Puducherry, is another tourist spot. It houses the most famous Church in Malabar built during the French reign. People of all religions and states gather here, especially during the festival in October. Mahe is 58 km away from Kozhikode and 24 km away from Kannur.
St. John's Anglican Church, Thalassery.
This beautiful church, built 140 years ago, lies close to the Thalassery fort. Sir Edward Brennen and many European officials of the East Indian Company rest in its cemetery. The church in built in Gothic style was recently renovated.
Murals
For those interested in antique arts, the murals in Thodeekkalam temple and those recently discovered in Muzhappilangad Sree Kurumba kavu are perfect destinations.
Others: Loganar Kavu in Vadakara, Rajarajeswari temple , Thalipparamba Thirchambaram Temple, Odathil Mosque.
Close to Nature
Aralam Sanctuary
For nature lovers who wish to take a trip into the depths of the rainforests; Aralam Sancturay is an irresistible option. This 55 sq km reserved area lies in the north western slopes of the Western Ghats, forming a part of the contiguous block of forests stretching from Wayanad-Brahmagiri slopes. The reserve offers options for adventurous trips for trekkers. The one-day trip through the rough terrain will take you to Ambalappara which is 1500m above sea level. A three-day package for six tourists and guides is available. Those who enjoy the company of birds, butterflies and other inhabitants of the rainforests could choose to trek to the Meenmutty falls. Daily trips with guides are available and the sanctuary is open from 8.00 a.m. to 4 .00 p.m.
Kuruva Islands
A nature lover's paradise, Kuruwa Dweep is a protected river delta along the Kabini in Wayanad district. This land lies 17 km east of Mananthavady and 40 km north west of Sulthan Bathery town. Kerala Tourism Department offers rafts and fibre boat services to access the island. Entry is monitored by the Forest Department.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary in Wayanad - the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala - is home to rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. A part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, it is spread over 344 km and is about 16 km east of Sultan Bathery.
Wayanad beckons
A few well-known destinations in Wayanad are Pakshipathalam, Meenmutty falls, Soochippara falls, Banasura Sagar Dam, Pookotte lake, Pazhassi Raja's Tomb, and Edakkal Caves, which lie 32 km from Kalpetta near Ambalavayal in Wayanad, known for its pre-historic carvings and paintings.
Other attractions
Kozhikode : Thali temple, Chaliyan kotta, Zamorin's palace, Kadalundi Bird Sanctury and Thusharagiri falls.
Kannur: Valapattnam Mosque, Handloom weaving and dyeing centres in Kannur, Arakkal Palace, Madayippara, Ezhimala, and Pythalmala.
Kasargod: Madhur, Malik Dinar Mosque, Mallikarjuna Temple, Veeramala, Valiyaparamba, Bela Church, and Chandragiri fort.
