Kozhikode has morphed from a major trading centre in the yesteryears while it was under the powerful local rulers Zamorins to an attractive backwater destination today. Its popularity as a backwater destination is due to its myriad natural beauty. The region is a tropical paradise of dense forests, golden beaches, cliffs and rocky coasts that is drained by 44 radiant rivers and still bays. The breathtaking backdrop adds to the excitement and thrill during the backwaters cruises. Kozhikode is also a town, formerly called Calicut, in North Kerala. The region gained recognition after the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama landed in 1498 at the Kappad Beach.

Backwater cruises at Kozhikode is enriching for the soul and pleasing to the eyes. Cruises are made along the picturesque serenely calm Kallai River, Canoli and Elathur canals abroad the traditional boat, Kettuvallam. Coupled with the still waters, the rolling verdant hills in the far distant add to the beauty of the place. The route is dotted with sprawling emerald green paddy fields along the palm-fringed shores while the smell of exotic fragrances from the spice plantations will arouse your senses. It also offers a peek into rustic village life where hard-working fishermen make a perpetual sight along the shores.

Kozhikode is also graced with several ancient monuments that you will glimpse at now and then during the cruise. Other major highlight is the view of the golden Kappad Beach and the towering lighthouse in the distance along with the view of the setting sun in the evening.

Topping the pile is the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary that is home to thousands of water birds. Lucky ones get might even get to see the elusive Aves apart from the usual herons, seagulls, larids and sandpipers. The Park is best visited during winter and spring (November-April) as migratory birds flock here cramming the place and enlivening it with their shrikes and colours.

Another mandatory stop is the Pookot fresh water lake. The Lake seems transported from a fairy-tale totally surrounded by verdant rolling hills and forest that are a treat to the jaded eye. A fresh water aquarium with hundreds varieties of fishes can also be gawked at.

If the stillness of the waters and the serenity of the place have made you lazy, then head to Korapuzha to try extreme water sports. The water sports festival Korapuzha Jalotsavam is becoming a hit among the tourists. Other than that visit the famous Tali Temple, Thiruvannur, Bhairagi Madam and Varakkal temples along the way.