| Kozhikode |
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Marco Polo, Vasco da Gama, Raja Ravi Varma are words that come alive as one visits Kozhicode, on the south-west coast of Kerala, bathed by the blue waters of the Arabian Sea. "Kozhikode" is popularly known as Calicut. In 1320 A.D. Marco Polo, the legendary traveller, described Calicut as the great province of Malabar, followed by Vasco da Gama.... and the Dutch....then the East India Company who visited this commercial city of Kerala. Spices, timber and clothes were the main attractions and it is also known to be the birth place of 'Calico' clothes. The city still has the fortified palace - 'Koyal Kotta', from where it derived its name. Calicut of today has added to its past strengths and is an important hub for trading and business. |
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PROFILE |
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| Area | 2,345 sq. km. |
| Climate | Warm tropical climate. Monsoons from June to October |
| Tourist Season | September to May. |
| Religion | Hindus and Muslim form the major comrnunity, with a minority of Christians. |
| Language | Malayalam is the official language. English is also used among the business class. |
| Altitude | Sea level |
| Time Zone | (Indian standard Time + 5.30 hours GMT). |
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TOURIST SPOTS |
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| Kozhikod Beach | A beautiful sandy beach, where you can chat with the waves, chase the tiny crabs... Light House, Park, Aquarium ...etc are also the attractions. |
| Kappad Beach | Where Vasco da Gama landed in 1498, 16 kms away from Kozhikode, in Kannur route. |
| Pazhassiraja Museum | 5 kms away from the city, at East Hill. |
| Mananchira Maidan | The heart of the city, a park to spend your leisure. Musjid, Town Hall, Library are all near by. |
| Vadakara | Famous for the martial art 'Kalarippayatt'. The 1500 year old Lokanarkkavu devi temple is here. |