Kannur

District Overview

KANNUR is located in the northern part of Kerala along the Malabar Coast. Kannur town serves as the district headquarters. The district shares its boundaries with Kasaragod and Kozhikode districts of Kerala, the Western Ghats to the east, and the Arabian Sea to the west.

Kannur district is known for its rich cultural heritage, historic forts, beaches, handloom industry, and vibrant folk traditions such as Theyyam. Agriculture, fishing, handloom weaving, coir, small-scale industries, and services form the backbone of the local economy. The district has a long maritime history and strong social indicators, including education and healthcare. Kannur district reflects classic Malabar culture blended with coastal and hill influences, making it suitable for cultural travelers, researchers, students, and family visitors.

Best Time to Visit

Kannur district experiences a tropical coastal climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. Summers from March to May are hot and humid.

The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall that enhances greenery but may limit outdoor activities. Winter, from October to February, is the most pleasant time to visit, offering comfortable weather for sightseeing, cultural events, and beach visits.

• Peak season months with highlights: October to February with pleasant coastal climate
• Off-season benefits and considerations: Lush scenery during monsoon, heavy rain
• Best months for travel and outdoor activities: December to January

Transportation & Getting Around

Kannur district is well connected by air, rail, and road. Kannur International Airport provides domestic and limited international connectivity. Kannur and Thalassery railway stations connect the district to major cities along the west coast and across India.

National highways and state roads link Kannur to Kozhikode, Kasaragod, Mangaluru, and the hill regions. Local transportation includes KSRTC buses, private buses, auto-rickshaws, taxis, and shared vehicles, making travel convenient across towns and villages.

• Nearest airport and railway connectivity: Kannur International Airport and Kannur railway station
• Local transport options and convenience: Buses, autos, taxis
• Estimated travel costs within the district: Budget-friendly fares

Nearby Places & Day Trips

Kannur district offers access to several nearby destinations suitable for short day trips, especially for travelers interested in culture, beaches, and hill landscapes of North Kerala.

Popular nearby places include Thalassery for historical and culinary heritage, Dharmadam Island for coastal scenery, Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary for nature exploration, and hill towns along the Western Ghats.

• Popular nearby attractions with distance: Thalassery, Dharmadam Island, Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
• Nature, heritage, and adventure options: Beaches, forests, cultural sites
• Recommended day-trip plans: One-day cultural or nature-focused itineraries