3 Days in Kozhikode for Family Fun

Kozhikode, with its beautiful beaches, delicious food, and laid-back vibe, is perfect for a relaxed family getaway. I've spent many weekends here with my own family, and it never disappoints. From watching the sunset at Kozhikode Beach to exploring the bustling markets, there's something for everyone. The kids will love the boat rides and the sweet treats, while parents can enjoy the coastal charm and rich history.

Kerala, kerala
3 Days
Family
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Eating fresh seafood at Kozhikode Beach while watching the sunset
Taking a peaceful boat ride on the backwaters at Kadalundi
Exploring the vibrant Sweet Meat Street for local snacks
Walking through the lush greenery of the Pazhassi Raja Museum gardens

Best Time to Visit

OctoberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Kozhikode

Kick off your family trip with Kozhikode's top attractions, from historic beaches to bustling markets, and dive into the city's famous Malabar cuisine.

Activities

Morning at Kappad Beach
Morning at Kappad Beach

Start your day where history was made—Vasco da Gama first landed here in 1498. The calm waters and golden sands are perfect for a family stroll. Kids will love the gentle waves, and there's a small monument marking the historic spot.

Kappad Beach, about 16 km from Kozhikode city8:00 AM - 10:00 AM (best before it gets too hot)Free (parking around ₹20)
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable sandals—the sand can get warm by late morning.
  • Try fresh coconut water from the vendors near the beach.
Explore Mananchira Square & Surroundings
Explore Mananchira Square & Surroundings

Head back to the city center to Mananchira Square, a serene park built around a historic temple tank. The lush lawns and shaded walkways are great for relaxing. Nearby, you’ll find the old Kozhikode Public Library and the imposing Mishkal Mosque, one of the oldest in the region.

Mananchira Square, heart of Kozhikode11:00 AM - 12:30 PMFree
Tips:
  • Visit nearby SM Street (Sweet Meat Street) afterward for snacks—it’s just a 5-minute walk.
  • The square has clean restrooms, which are handy with kids.
Lunch at Paragon Restaurant

No visit to Kozhikode is complete without a meal at this legendary spot. Their Malabar biryani, fiery fish curry, and fluffy appams are must-tries. The bustling vibe and vintage charm make it a fun experience for families.

Paragon Restaurant, Kannur Road1:00 PM - 2:00 PM₹500-₹800 for a family meal
Tips:
  • Arrive slightly early to avoid the lunch rush—it’s packed by 1:30 PM.
  • Try their signature 'Kozhikode halwa' for dessert.

Must Try Foods

Malabar biryani
Kozhikode halwa
Kallummakkaya (mussels) curry

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Kozhikode Railway Station (2 km from city center; 10-minute cab ride)
Nearest Bus Stop
Palayam Bus Stand (central hub; buses every 10-15 mins to Kappad)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs (like Uber/Ola) and auto-rickshaws are easily available; negotiate fares for autos upfront.

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Day 2

Day 2 in Kozhikode

A mix of history, nature, and local flavors, diving deeper into Kozhikode's charm beyond the usual spots.

Activities

Explore Beypore Beach & Shipbuilding Yard
Explore Beypore Beach & Shipbuilding Yard

Head to Beypore, a short drive from Kozhikode, known for its serene beach and centuries-old shipbuilding tradition. Watch artisans craft wooden dhows (traditional boats) using age-old techniques. The beach here is less crowded than Kappad, perfect for a quiet stroll or watching fishermen bring in their catch.

Beypore Beach, KozhikodeMorning (8 AM - 11 AM) to avoid afternoon heatFree (small fee for guided shipyard tours)
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the sandy walk
  • Ask locals about the best time to see dhows being launched
Visit Thali Temple & Pazhassi Raja Museum
Visit Thali Temple & Pazhassi Raja Museum

A cultural double-header: Thali Temple, a 14th-century shrine with intricate Kerala architecture, followed by the Pazhassi Raja Museum nearby. The museum houses ancient coins, sculptures, and artifacts from the region, including relics from the Pazhassi Raja's rebellion against the British.

Thali Temple Road & East Hill, KozhikodeLate morning (11 AM - 1 PM) after BeyporeTemple: Free, Museum: ₹20 per person
Tips:
  • Dress modestly for the temple
  • Museum closes at 1 PM, so arrive by 12:30 PM
Lunch at Zain's Hotel & Evening at S.M. Street

Refuel at Zain's Hotel, famous for their spicy chicken biryani and Kerala-style fish curry. Post-lunch, wander down Sweet Meat Street (S.M. Street), Kozhikode's bustling shopping lane. Hunt for banana chips, halwa, and local handicrafts while soaking in the old-world vibe.

Zain's Hotel (Palayam), S.M. Street (Mittai Theruvu)1:30 PM - 4 PM (shops close by 8 PM)Lunch: ₹300-500 per person, Shopping: varies
Tips:
  • Try Zain's signature 'kallummakkaya' (mussels) if available
  • Bargain gently at S.M. Street

Must Try Foods

Kallummakkaya (mussels) fry
Kozhikode halwa (especially white variant)
Ari pathiri with fish curry

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Kozhikode Railway Station (2 km from city center, 10-15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Palayam Bus Stand (central hub, frequent buses to Beypore)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Ola/Uber available; auto-rickshaws best for short distances (always agree on fare first)

Day 3

Day 3 in Kozhikode

A relaxed day exploring Kozhikode's hidden gems, from serene backwaters to local markets and unique cultural spots.

Activities

Morning at Elathur Backwaters

Start your day with a peaceful boat ride through the Elathur Backwaters, a quieter alternative to the usual tourist spots. The lush greenery and calm waters make it perfect for families. You might spot local fishermen at work or even some migratory birds if you're lucky.

Elathur Backwaters, about 12 km from Kozhikode city center7:00 AM - 10:00 AM (best in the early morning for cooler weather)INR 500-1000 for a private boat
Tips:
  • Bring sunscreen and hats—the sun can get intense by mid-morning.
  • Negotiate the boat price beforehand to avoid surprises.
Visit Mishkal Mosque and Nearby Lanes

Head to the historic Mishkal Mosque, one of the oldest in Kozhikode, known for its unique wooden architecture. Wander through the surrounding lanes filled with tiny shops selling everything from spices to handmade crafts. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs and see local life up close.

Mishkal Mosque, Kuttichira area10:30 AM - 12:00 PM (avoid prayer times for a more relaxed visit)Free (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as it’s a religious site.
  • Try the nearby street food stalls for quick snacks.
Lunch at Rahmath Hotel

No trip to Kozhikode is complete without trying their legendary biryani. Rahmath Hotel is a local favorite, serving up fragrant, flavorful biryani that’s worth the wait. The mutton biryani is a standout, but the chicken and fish options are great too.

Rahmath Hotel, Palayam12:30 PM - 1:30 PMINR 200-400 per person
Tips:
  • Arrive early—it gets crowded during lunch.
  • Pair your biryani with their signature rose milk for a refreshing drink.

Must Try Foods

Kozhikode biryani
Kallummakkaya (mussels) curry
Banana chips from local vendors

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Kozhikode Railway Station (3 km from city center, 10-15 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Palayam Bus Stand (frequent buses to Elathur and other parts of the city)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs (like Uber and Ola) are easily available, but auto-rickshaws are more common for short distances.

Travel Tips

Try the famous Kozhikode halwa early in the day before it sells out
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the beach and in markets
Carry sunscreen and hats - the sun can be strong even in cooler months
Bargain politely at the local markets for souvenirs

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