Things To Do
in Azhikkōd

Azhikkōd is a coastal town located in the Malabar region of Kerala, India, known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty. It is situated near the city of Kannur and boasts beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and vibrant local markets. The town is a blend of traditional Kerala life with modern influences, making it an intriguing destination for travelers.

With its friendly locals and diverse attractions, Azhikkōd provides a unique experience of the Indian coastal lifestyle.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Culture and Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local fish market to see the morning catch and experience local life.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at Azhikkōd Beach, relaxing by the sea or trying out local water sports.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Kerala dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like fish curry and appam.

day 2
Day 2: Discover History and Local Flavors
morning
:

Visit the historic St. Thomas Church, which showcases beautiful architecture and local history.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Bekal Fort, a stunning historical site with panoramic views of the coastline.

evening
:

Wander through the local markets, picking up handicrafts and enjoying street food like banana chips.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍛Meal at a local restaurant$3
Coffee at a cafe$1
🚕Taxi ride within the town$2
🛍️Souvenir shopping$5
🏨Budget hotel per night$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and beaches.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Transportation can be challenging in rural areas.
  • High humidity can be uncomfortable during summer.
  • "Namaskaram" - Hello
  • "Nanni" - Thank you
  • "Enikku sahayam venam" - I need help
  • "Ithu ettu aanu?" - How much is this?
  • "Kooduthal ariyam" - I want to know more

Places to Visit in Azhikkōd

Visit one of these nice places.

Azhikkōd Beach

A picturesque beach known for its golden sands and stunning sunsets, ideal for capturing beautiful coastal shots.

Bekal Fort

An ancient fort with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, providing a dramatic backdrop for photography.

St. Thomas Church

A historic church with intricate architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of local culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Azhikkōd

Azhikkōd offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of Kerala's coastal cuisine. With an abundance of fresh seafood and local spices, visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes.

Azhikkōd Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish Curry

A spicy and tangy curry made with fresh fish and coconut milk, typically served with rice.

Must-Try!

Appam

A soft and fluffy pancake made from fermented rice batter, perfect for pairing with curries.

Puttu

A traditional Kerala breakfast dish made from rice flour and coconut, usually served with banana or curry.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Azhikkōd Fish Market

A bustling market where locals sell the fresh catch of the day, offering a glimpse into the region's fishing culture.

Street Vendors

Various stalls around the town serve snacks like banana chips and spicy fish fry, a must-try for visitors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Azhikkōd has a tropical climate characterized by high humidity and moderate temperatures throughout the year. Winters are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C. Summers can get hot with temperatures reaching up to 35°C, while the monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, particularly from June to September, cooling the temperatures slightly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

While Azhikkōd is relatively liberal, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially in religious sites.

Respect Local Customs

Observe local customs during festivals or ceremonies, and ask for permission before photographing people.

Use of Right Hand

Use your right hand for giving and receiving items as the left hand is considered unclean.

Safety Guide

Safety

Azhikkōd is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take common precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and securing valuables. Be cautious while swimming in the sea, as currents can be strong, and always follow local guidelines.

Tipping in Azhikkōd

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for services, usually around 10% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many restaurants also accept digital payments via UPI or credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

Pleasant weather with cool temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (March - May)

Hot and humid conditions; stay hydrated and plan activities for early morning or late evening.

Monsoon (June - September)

Heavy rainfall, transforming the landscape into lush greenery; ideal for nature photography but be cautious of travel disruptions.

Post-Monsoon (October - November)

Cooler temperatures with occasional showers; great for exploring local festivals and markets.

Nightlife Guide

Azhikkōd at Night

Azhikkōd offers a relaxed nightlife experience primarily centered around beachside shacks and local eateries. While there are no large clubs, many cafes and restaurants have live music or cultural performances in the evenings. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, making it perfect for casual socializing and enjoying the coastal breeze.

Hiking in Azhikkōd

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary Trail

A scenic trail in the nearby wildlife sanctuary, offering opportunities to see diverse flora and fauna.

Wayanad Hills Trail

A more challenging hike that takes you through breathtaking landscapes and offers panoramic views of the region.

Airports

How to reach Azhikkōd by plane.

Kannur International Airport

Located about 30 km from Azhikkōd, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient entry point.

Getting Around

Walkability

Azhikkōd is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, markets, and restaurants are located. Sidewalks are available, and the beach area is also pedestrian-friendly. However, be cautious of traffic when walking near busy roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Malayalis

The predominant ethnic group in Azhikkōd, known for their rich traditions and cultural heritage.

Tourists

Visitors from various parts of India and abroad come to experience the local culture and natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is immensely popular in Azhikkōd, with many local teams and matches played in schools and communities.

Kabbadi

A traditional Indian sport, Kabbadi is played in local tournaments and has a strong following in the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Azhikkōd can be moderate, especially during peak hours, but the town is generally less congested compared to larger cities. Public transportation options include auto-rickshaws and local buses, which are affordable and widely used for commuting.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Azhikkōd.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, confirm the use of fish sauce or other non-vegetarian ingredients.

Spice Levels

Dishes can be quite spicy, so ask for milder versions if you have a low spice tolerance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Azhikkōd include local clinics and hospitals, offering basic medical services. For serious medical issues, it may be necessary to travel to larger cities like Kannur, where more specialized care is available. Travelers should consider having travel insurance that covers medical care.

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