KANNUR

About Kannur

Kannur is one of the districts located in the northern part of Kerala. Situated on the shores of the Arabian Sea, Kannur was a major trading center in ancient times. Historical records reveal that this region maintained trade relations with Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Thalassery was one of the important port towns. Kannur Airport, inaugurated in 2018, is the fourth airport in Kerala. Kannur serves as a key transportation hub to northern Kerala, the Karnataka borders, Kodagu, and Mysore. The traditional industry of Kannur is handloom weaving. Products manufactured here are exported from Malayali households to international markets. The most prominent art form of Kannur is Theyyam. Unlike the art forms of southern Kerala, Theyyam here is considered a divine experience. The Theyyam season lasts from November to May. Thalassery Government Library, one of the first public libraries in Kerala, along with other libraries in various locations, reflects the district's cultural awareness. Kannur has numerous natural tourism centers such as Payyambalam Beach, Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, Palakkayam Thattu Waterfalls, and Arankad Forest. Kannur’s cuisine is another special feature. Being part of the Malabar region, strong influences from local cooking methods as well as Arab and Muslim community flavors are evident here. Thalassery biryani is very famous. Additionally, meat dishes like Irachi Pathiri (meat stuffed flatbread), Neychor (ghee rice), Karimeen Fry (pearl spot fry), Egg Roast, Thalayani Chicken, and Irachi Varuthathu (fried meat) are commonly prepared. Pathiri, Ottada, and Neipathiri are other unique dishes of Kannur. Fish preparations are also popular. The rich culinary heritage, unique flavors, and traditional customs make Kannur’s food a distinctive experience.