24 Hours In Kozhikode

Envisage virginal shores abuzz with spice merchants, the smell of cardamom and pepper lingering in the air—the coastal city of Kozhikode (earlier known as Calicut) in Kerala was the major trading point of Eastern spices in the 15th century. Today, the city has metamorphosed into a cultural hub—where traditional restaurants vie with chic cafes, and literature, art, and cinema thrive. Here’s how you can explore the best of it in a day’s time.

- Adila Matra

6:00 am SUNRISE AT VAYALADA

Situated 38 kilometres from the Kozhikode city, and 567 metres above sea level are the hills of Vayalad, which offer one of the best daybreak views in the district. A trek to one of the many jagged rock formations offers a bird’s eye view of the surrounding dense woods and the rising sun reflecting in the snaking Peruvannamoozhi reservoir below. If you arrive here on a foggy day, tufts of cottony clouds and drifting mist put on a good show.

9:00 am BREAKFAST AT KERALEEYAM

The signature restaurant of the Raviz group in Kozhikode, Keraleeyam is popular not just among the inhouse guests, but also locals, especially for its large and airy dining space overlooking the emerald River Chaliyar. Gorge on the bounteous breakfast buffet as live stations whip up crispy dosas and omelettes for you. Wash it down with a steaming cup of filter coffee and you are all set to take on the day. theraviz.com

11:00 am A DOSE OF HISTORY AT KAPPAD BEACH