Kerala · India
Kannur
The 'land of looms and lores' on the north Malabar coast — a seafront fort, golden beaches (including India's only drive-in beach), the fierce ritual art of Theyyam, and handloom weaving.
Kannur is north-Malabar culture: St Angelo Fort, Payyambalam and the Muzhappilangad drive-in beach, the vivid Theyyam rituals, handloom co-ops, and Malabar food.
Plan your trip
Kannur Tour Itineraries
Timed, walkable day plans — plus the best season to go.
Where to shoot
Kannur Photo Spots
High crowdEntry Free
Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach
- Best timeLate afternoon into sunset, when the low sun lights the long curve of sand; early morning for an empty beach.
- ColorsWhiteCoralTeal
Medium crowdEntry Free (temple)
Parassinikadavu
- Best timeEarly morning, during the Muthappan Theyyam and while the river is still calm; evening for the second ritual and soft light on the water.
- ColorsWhiteRedSaffron
High crowdEntry Free
Payyambalam Beach
- Best timeEvening, for the sunset over the Arabian Sea; early morning for soft light and an empty beach.
- ColorsWhiteCoralAqua
Medium crowdEntry Free
St Angelo Fort
- Best timeLate afternoon, when the low sun turns the laterite walls deep red; morning for softer light and fewer visitors.
- ColorsRustWhiteAqua
Medium crowdEntry Free (village rituals)
Theyyam Ritual
- Best timeLate night to dawn, when many kavu rituals reach their peak by lamplight and firelight; daytime rituals give easier natural light.
- ColorsWhiteRedGold
For the feed
Trending Wear in Kannur
Modern, Instagram-friendly looks
Rooted in the city
Kannur Traditional Wear
Local, cultural, handcrafted outfits
Before you go
Temples in Kannur
Darshan hours, dress codes and what gets refused at the gate
Taste the city
Food to Eat in Kannur
Trusted tables
Where to Eat in Kannur
About Kannur
Kannur, once known as Cannanore, sits on the north Malabar coast of Kerala, close to the Karnataka border. It is often called the land of looms and lores: the looms are its handloom weaving, and the lores are Theyyam, the ritual art in which a performer is treated as the deity itself. The Portuguese built St Angelo Fort here in 1505, and the fort still looks out over the fishing boats of Mappila Bay.
Kannur is quieter than Kochi or Alleppey, and most visitors come for its beaches and its rituals. Spend an evening on Payyambalam Beach, a late afternoon on the ramparts of St Angelo Fort, and an early morning at Parassinikadavu for the Muthappan Theyyam by the river. Drive south to Muzhappilangad, where cars are allowed on the sand, and leave room for Malabar food such as Thalassery biryani, pathiri and a fiery Kannur fish curry.
Questions
Kannur — FAQ
What is Kannur famous for?
Kannur is famous for Theyyam, its handloom weaving, St Angelo Fort and its beaches, including the Muzhappilangad drive-in beach. It is also known for north Malabar food such as Thalassery biryani and pathiri.
How many days are enough for Kannur?
2–3 days is enough for St Angelo Fort, Payyambalam Beach, Muzhappilangad and a morning at Parassinikadavu. Add a night or two in Theyyam season if you want to see a ritual at a village shrine, as these often run late into the night.
What is the best time to visit Kannur?
October to March is the most comfortable time, with drier weather and calmer seas. It also overlaps with the Theyyam season, which usually runs from about October or November to May. June to September brings heavy monsoon rain. See the best time to visit Kannur for a month-by-month guide.
How do I reach Kannur?
Kannur International Airport at Mattanur is about 28 km from the city. Kannur railway station is on the west coast line, with trains from Mangaluru, Kozhikode and further south. Kozhikode is about 90 km away by road if you want more flight options.
Where can I see Theyyam in Kannur?
Theyyam is performed at village shrines called kavus across Kannur district, mostly between about November and May, and schedules are announced locally. Outside the season, the Parassinikadavu Muthappan temple holds a Muthappan Theyyam almost every day, in the early morning and the evening.