If you are actually planning a trip to northern Kerala, you should definitely explore places near Kannur. These areas offer beautiful sights and experiences that you must see. Basically, Kannur has clean beaches, old forts, peaceful hills, and strong culture – the same place offers everything for different types of travelers.
Basically, the town has the equal blend of vintage markets, temples, and artwork that shows how records and tradition come collectively. Visiting locations near Kannur similarly helps you find out hidden gem stones and enjoy authentic Kerala lifestyles itself. These destinations provide scenic landscapes and actual local lifestyle. We are when you consider that Kannur and close by locations deliver very good recollections for all forms of trips – family visits, alone travel, or only cultural excursions.
Table of Contents
Places Near Kannur
1. St Angelo Fort
As per historical importance, Angelo’s Fort is a popular place near Kannur. History lovers must visit this fort regarding its significance. We are seeing that this strong fort has old but well-kept buildings that show only beauty and power together. This place is located beside the Arabian Sea and surely provides beautiful wide views of waves meeting the endless blue sky. Moreover, visitors can see the complete ocean view from this coastal location. Visitors can surely explore the historic walls, bastions, and secret passages of this fort.
2. Choottad Beach
Choottad Beach is located in Pazhayangadi, about 30 km from Kannur, and the place itself offers great peace to visitors. This undeveloped beach further provides a beautiful stretch for those seeking quiet surroundings. The beach has green plants on one side and blue Arabian Sea water on the other side, as per its location. Regarding the views and atmosphere, it offers beautiful sights and peaceful surroundings. Visitors can actually enjoy canoe rides and play areas here. This place is definitely perfect for families and people who love adventure.
3. Payyambalam Beach
We are seeing that Payyambalam Beach is only one of the most popular places near Kannur. We are seeing that this beach has only calm atmosphere with soft golden sand and clear blue waters, making it perfect for relaxation. The peaceful environment is ideal for leisure activities only. We are seeing that photographers and nature lovers only choose this place because of the beautiful sunset views. As per the facilities available, visitors can do water sports and take long walks on the beach. Regarding relaxation, one can simply sit and listen to the soft waves.
4. Arakkal Kettu
Arkkal Ketu is one of the most interesting places near Kannur, which is located just 3 km from the same city. In addition, this historic palace certainly serves as a royal house of the Arkkal family, who was the only Muslim ruler in Kerala. In addition, he once controlled coastal areas and Lakshadweep islands. We are seeing that this 200 year old complex has only palace, office building, mosque and homes to live. Originally, visitors can investigate the Arkkal Museum which was the old court hall, and it has royal accessories such as clarinet, furniture, weapons and old utensils.
5. Muzhappilangad Drive-In Beach
We are seeing that Muzapilangad Drive-in near Kannur is one of the most exciting places to travel beach, as it is only known as Asia’s longest drive-in beach. Visitors can actually drive with clean sandy beach and of course can enjoy beautiful natural scenes around them. The beach actually attracts many different birds, so it is definitely perfect to see birds. Visitors can easily see various bird species throughout the year. Originally, daily visitor finds the same attraction in both driving experience and peaceful environment.
6. Madayipara
Maddeepara is one of the most beautiful places near Kannur and is known as the land of flower. Located on the letterite slopes of the Western Ghats, this place has more than 300 flowering plants and more than 30 types of dense grass. This area itself acts as a shelter for nature lovers, and further supports the life of diverse plants. The landscape actually varies with different seasons. This definitely gives a new experience every time.
7. Kannur Lighthouse
We are seeing that Kannur Lighthouse near Sea View Park on Payyambalam Beach is only one of the most famous places in this area. We are seeing this lighthouse attracting history lovers and tourists only because it is the first of its kind in Kerala. We are seeing that the red round tower is still working properly and gives only beautiful views of the Arabian Sea. We are seeing this place surrounded by Kannur’s top hotels only, making it very convenient for visitors.
8. Dharmadam Island
Dharmadam Island is sincerely one of the maximum non violent places near Kannur that gives a perfect go back to nature lovers. In addition, couples looking for quiet moments will find this destination best for his or her needs. Originally, you could reach this small island only when the tide is low, and it has the equal clear water and inexperienced flowers that come up with peace from the lifestyles of a hectic metropolis. Peaceful environment and herbal beauty make this place ideal for walking, taking pix or relaxing. In addition, the place itself offers traffic a groovy migration from the lifestyles of the busy town.
9. Meenkunnu Beach
Meenkunnu Beach near Kannur is a quiet golden seashore with thick coconut timber round it. This place itself is perfect for traffic, and you could similarly enjoy the peaceful environment. It is positioned handiest 10 kilometers from Kannur town, close to the popular Payyambalam Beach, but we’re due to the fact it gives a greater quiet and non violent experience. Moreover, meenkunnu sincerely manner “mountain of fish” and without a doubt shows how coastal villages have been fishing for many years.
10. Parassinikkadavu Snake Park
In addition, Parsinicakadu Snake Park definitely stands as an essential destination for visitors who discover the Kannur region. In addition, this place offers important educational values through its diverse repatile collection. Originally, this place has many different snakes and reptiles, so wildlife lovers find it exciting and the same experience attracts many visitors. Originally, visitors can learn about different animals, where they live, and the same protection work is being done to protect them. The park conducts exciting snake shows with actually trained people.
11. Valapattanam River
According to the recommendations of the journey, Valapatnam is a visit place 8 km north of Kannur city. Regarding its location, this destination is easily accessible from the main city. The Valapatnam River actually begins from the Western Ghats in Kodagu, Karnataka, and is definitely the longest river in Malabar. This river finally meets the Arabian Sea at this place. In addition, the river was famous for its wooden trade and served as a major trade route. In addition, legends connected it to Timber Collection of King Solomon. Today, we are seeing that Walpatnam gives a quiet place for those who only love nature and beaches.
12. Payyanur
We are on the grounds that Valiyaparamba Island is one of the most lovely locations near Kannur only, sitting among Kavvayi Backwaters and Arabian Sea. This long piece of land makes a completely fine spot for visitors. This inhabited island without a doubt covers round sixteen rectangular kilometers and gives a peaceful location for nature fanatics. Moreover, vacationers in search of quiet and calm will discover this area very suitable for his or her needs. The Valiyaparamba Backwaters receive water from 4 rivers and shape many small islands with lovely views.
FAQs
1. What are some of the best places near Kannur to visit for a weekend trip?
Some of the best places near Kannur include Bekal Fort, Payyambalam Beach, Paithalmala, Thalassery, and Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary — perfect for short getaways filled with nature and heritage.
2. How far are popular tourist spots near Kannur?
Most popular spots near Kannur are within 50–100 km, making them ideal for day trips or weekend escapes with family and friends.
3. Are there any hill stations close to Kannur?
Yes, Paithalmala and Wayanad are scenic hill stations located a few hours from Kannur, offering breathtaking views, trekking trails, and lush greenery.
4. What are the top beaches around Kannur?
Payyambalam Beach, Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, and Meenkunnu Beach are among the top beaches near Kannur for relaxing and sightseeing.
5. Why should I explore places near Kannur?
Exploring places near Kannur lets you experience Kerala’s authentic charm — from serene beaches to lush hills and historic forts — all within a short travel distance.
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