Key Takeaways:
- Calicut offers a variety of escapes including serene hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, and palm-fringed beaches for every traveler.
- Destinations like Nilambur, Sulthan Bathery, and Ponnani combine natural beauty with rich historical and cultural experiences.
- Families, couples, and solo travelers can enjoy relaxation, adventure, and memorable experiences within a short drive from Calicut.
No matter where you live, you need a break from the hectic city life for getting away from the hustle-bustle. It is still true even if you’re living in one of the best cities in India, Cochin which is also known as Kozhikode. For peace and serenity, try any of these 5 best weekend getaways from Calicut and visit them on your upcoming long weekend.
Kalpetta
With a landscape that looks like a surreal oil painting, Kalpetta has become the focal point of Wayanad tourism. Historically, it was the first place to rebel against the British and kick-start the Indian Independence Moment of Wayanad. Kalpetta is a hill station located 780 meters above sea level surrounded by mountains, and dense coffee, and tea plantations making it perfect for trekking. Some of the popular tourist places in Kalpetta include the breathtaking Chembra peak, the ancient Tirunelli Vishnu Temple, stunning Kanthanpara and Meenmutty waterfalls, and Banasura hills to name a few.
Nilambur
Near the ranges of Nilgiri, 61 km away from Calicut, Nilambur is famous for Conolly’s Plot which is the world’s oldest teak plantations. While Kalpetta is a stronghold of Jains who migrated from Karnataka, Nilambur’s roots sink deep into the British Colonial Period. It is also home to the world’s first and one-of-a-kind teak museum with exhibits aimed at educating visitors about teak wood as well as its history, cultural significance, and scientific advancements. Surrounded by rainforests, Nilambur offers quite a few tourist attractions including the Bengalavu Kunnu, Adyanpara Waterfalls, Elambalai Hills, and Nilambur Kovilakam.
Sulthan Bathery
Amid Wayanad’s rolling greens lies Sulthan Bathery, a city vast in history, more than a thousand years deep. Swamps cradle the land, forest trails weave through cliffs and valleys, rivers hum their gentle tunes. Heritage lives in the Jain temple and ancient caves. Markets bloom with colors of ethnic cloth, while Muthanga’s wild heart and Chethalaya’s cascading falls draw seekers of nature’s charm.
Payyoli Beach
Every November, the dark ocean delivers a miracle to Payyoli’s shore. Olive Ridley turtles drag themselves onto the sand, laying silent promises with each egg. Children watch, eyes wide with wonder, while fishermen guard this secret treasure. Just steps away, waves invite laughter and adventure, framed by palm-fringed beaches and a lighthouse born from a shipwreck’s bones.
Ponnani
Ponnani’s location at the river-sea junction made it a vital port in Kerala’s spice trade. Governed by the Zamorins, it was the site of frequent clashes with Portuguese colonizers. Its colonial-era forts and religious sites reflect its diverse history. Significant contributions to the independence movement add to its legacy. Currently, Ponnani balances its historical roots with natural coastal attractions.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Close to Kalpetta, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary thrives with life. Elephants roam freely, and the forest echoes with the sounds of untamed nature. Tigers move silently through their territory. Leopards watch from hidden corners. Birdwatchers have ample opportunities to observe a variety of species. The best part is the safaris in the Tholpetty and Muthanga ranges. They let you experience the wild up close and personal.
Conclusion
Ready for a weekend escape? These handpicked getaways from Calicut are perfect for a break! Families will love the historic spots, and couples will adore peaceful, nature-based resorts. Book cheap flights to Calicut International Airport (CCJ) with Indian Eagle today. Check out Indian Eagle flight deals to snag amazing prices!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best weekend getaways from Calicut?
Some of the top options include Kalpetta, Nilambur, Sulthan Bathery, Payyoli Beach, Ponnani, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Each offers unique experiences from hill stations and beaches to wildlife and historic sites.
Why should I visit Nilambur near Calicut for a weekend trip?
Nilambur is famous for Conolly’s Plot, the world’s oldest teak plantations, the unique Teak Museum, and attractions like Adyanpara Waterfalls, Elambalai Hills, and Nilambur Kovilakam.
What attractions can I explore in Sulthan Bathery from Calicut?
Sulthan Bathery offers rich history, the Jain temple, Edakkal Caves, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Chethalaya Falls, forest trails, cliffs, valleys, and local ethnic markets.
Why is Payyoli Beach a popular weekend destination near Calicut?
Payyoli Beach is known for its palm-fringed shoreline, water sports, sunbathing, swimming, and the unique experience of Olive Ridley turtles nesting during certain months.
What makes Ponnani worth visiting on a short trip from Calicut?
Ponnani is a historic city with colonial-era forts, ancient temples and masjids, pristine beaches, cultural spots, and a history tied to Kerala’s spice trade and independence movement.
When is the best time to visit Kalpetta, Nilambur, and Sulthan Bathery?
Hill stations and forests are best visited from October to March, while beaches like Payyoli and Ponnani are ideal from November to February.
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