Backwaters

About Backwaters

Far From City: 3 kms from city center
Cost: About Backwaters Weather: Time Required:More than 3 hours Open Time:All time Cost:No entry fee

Kozhikode Backwater Cruise Cruising along the placid backwaters of the Canoli River and Kallai River along the paddy fields, coconut lagoons, narrow canals and coir villages is a treat to everyone looking for a break from the monotony and hurry of our fast-paced lives. While cruising along the Kozhikode backwaters, one can discover the fascinating countryside spilt across God's own country, Kerala. As the boat sails along the backwaters, be enthralled by the unmatchable and incomparable beauty of the deltas, rivers and lakes that make Kozhikode the scenic town it is. The unfiltered purity of these backwaters and their surroundings will enchant you with their mystical charm. A vacation aboard one of the Houseboats that rests amidst these serene waters is one you will cherish forever. Waking up to the melodious voices of the tiny birds as shafts of sunlight peek through your window; these are few of the rare moments where nature's unparalleled sanctity fills us with an inexplicable euphoria. Attractions at Kozhikode Backwaters Other than taking you along a lush and verdant coastline as you float upon glistening sun-kissed waters, the backwater boat cruise will take you to a few popular attractions of the town too. It makes a stop at the famous Kozhikode Beach, popular for its serene setting and welcoming vibe. You can relax at the beach and bask in the warmth of the sun, indulge in some beach sports and water sports or sip on some of the best and extremely soothing coconut water! There are seafood stalls which are a delicious local staple to the region. The prawns and pomfrets are a huge hit. The beach offers a picturesque view of two piers and a lighthouse. You can also go to the Kappad Beach, which is famous being the destination where Vasco Da Gama first arrived in India and was the first European ever to set foot on Indian soil. The boat also stops at the Pazhassirajah Museum. This museum is a treasure trove for historians and connoisseurs of art. The museum boasts of a wide range of art created by cherished artists of Kerala, antique bronzes, ancient coins, mural paintings, models of temples and other megalithic monuments. Bird Watching at Kozhikode Backwaters Kozhikode is a town that houses different kinds of water bodies- deltas, canals, lakes and rivers. This kind of diversity is a haven for the avifauna and hence invites a variety of different species of birds. Also, the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is also situated in Kozhikode and is an ornithologists dream come true! Dusk is the best time to pull out your binoculars and engage in some early morning birding. You can see the Brahminies, Black Kites and Kingfishers flying parallel to the surface of the still waters and swiftly swooping in to catch their prey. You can also witness various species of herons, sandpipers, cormorants, woodpeckers, hornbills, darters and plovers in all their glory. You will also see solitary birds perched up on branches or half trunks and cranes standing meditatively still on the shallow end of the waters. Kozhikode is home to more than hundred local species of avifauna and about sixty species of migratory birds that start flocking to Kozhikode after April. It is truly a visual treat to see these birds dance through the skies in patterns creating a mirror-like reflection in the waters. The feathers of some birds are so colourful and hypnotically beautiful that one is left completely in awe of nature's wonderful creations. History of Kozhikode From time immemorial, the city has attracted travellers with its prosperity. It has traded in spices like black pepper and cardamom with Jews, Arabs, Phoenicians, and Chinese for more than 500 years. Kozhikode was the capital of Malabar during the time of Sri Samoothiri Maharajas, who ruled the region before the British took over. The city's first recorded contact with Europe was when Vasco da Gama landed at Kappad (18 km north) in May 1498, among the leaders of a trade mission from Portugal.

Best time to visit Backwaters Backwaters are always a refreshing and rejuvenating, no matter what time of year it is. However, if you want to enjoy every aspect of this experience thoroughly, it is best to indulge in some backwater cruising post monsoon. Once the monsoons are over, the water levels of every water body become stable, and the surroundings are flushed with green. The temperatures also fall down to between a cool 10 to . 25 degrees Celcius and the migratory birds also stick around till November. How to Reach Backwaters The Kozhikode Railway Station (CLT) is a popular railhead and has trains pulling in and out very frequently. You can also opt to get to Kozhikode via buses that stop at Kozhikode Bus Station which is well connected to the rest of the city. Once you reach Kozhikode, it is best to take a cab or auto to the destination of your choice of water body- Kallai River, Elathur, Kalipoika, Canoli River and Canal, Ashtamdi Lake, etc. These are all very close to the city centre and are easy to get to. The total flight time between Kempegowda International Airport &Kozhikode is around 1 hours. You can take a car from Calicut to Kozhikode. It will take you around 27 minutes to cover the distance of 28.5 Km and reach Kozhikode from Calicut. The total amount for the journey will be approximately INR 950.

Top Tourist Places in Kozhikode Kozhippara Falls Thusharagiri Waterfall Thikkoti Light House Kakkayam Sweet Street (Mithai Theravu) Lion's Park All Tourist Places in Kozhikode

Tips Book your houseboats beforehand