Kannur: The Land of Theyyam, Coast, and Spice Delights.
Kannur, the Land of Looms and Lores, is one of the most fascinating coasts of Malabar!
Kannur is known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. The coastal town has a wonderful blend of natural beauty, architectural treasures, and a distinct way of life that will fascinate any visitor. The land is deeply connected to its traditional values and art forms; an example is Theyyam, a vivid ritualistic dance form that will mesmerise anyone who comes across it.
Malabar cuisine is unique among all of Kerala's diverse regional cuisines. Malabar has been India’s spice trade centre since ancient times and has brought a variety of traders. Thus, influences from all over the world entered their cuisines. The delightful Kannur cuisine is evidence. Here we are going to do a deep dive into one of the most captivating pieces of land in the north of Malabar, Kannur!
The dance of gods
Theyyam, also known as the Dance of Gods, is one of North Kerala's oldest indigenous art forms. Its origins are thought to predate Hinduism, dating back more than 1500 years. More than 400 different manifestations of theyyam exist in and around Kannur; each one has its own unique costume, elaborate jewellery, body paint, face make-up, and massive headdresses known as the mudi.
Theyyam is believed to have originated as a fertility ritual. Despite being a dance form, it is not done for amusement. This is a centuries-old ritualistic worship aimed at uniting humanity and divinity. Thottam, vellattam, and mukhathezhuttu are the three distinctive phases of theyyam.
Theyyam is a blend of dark reds and sparkling silvers; it’s the burning eyes piercing you through the kohl and fiery beds of charcoal and fires. Above everything, the most hypnotic part of theyyam is the drums played during the dance. If you are someone who is always chasing unique experiences, nothing is more unique and adrenaline-inducing than theyyam.
The coasts and backwaters of Kannur
Marco Polo described Kannur ( then Cannanore) as ‘a great emporium of spice trade’ during the reign of Kolathiri kings. The city thrived as a major port hub for international trade, and colonial powers such as the Portuguese, Dutch, and British made their mark over the years.
Kannur's magnificent beach lineup can take up a significant portion of your time. These serene beaches are ideal for anyone looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Payyambalam Beach: Payyambalam is the most popular beach in Kannur. Payyambalam is a broad beach, extending around 4 kilometres of city waterfront.
Kizzhuna Beach: Kizzhuna Beach in Kannur is one of the most picturesque beaches in South India. It is made of 'virgin sand’. Every year, powerful monsoon storms and large waves wipe away the old beach and replace it with 'new sand'. That is why it is one of India's cleanest and trash-free beaches. If you are hoping to have a tranquil, serene experience, this is your beach.
Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach: Muzhappilangad Beach is an exceptional and one-of-a-kind drive-in beach in Kerala. Surrounded and protected by rock clusters, this beach is also ideal for swimming.
Dharmadam Island and Beach: Dharmadam Island is merely across from Muzhappilangad drive-in beach. It’s not uncommon in Kannur to see a beach island at the intersection of a river and the sea.
Thottada Beach: The beautiful shore of Thottada Beach is blessed with fine sand and coconut trees. The village has a few lesser-known backwaters, and just near the beach, the Thottada River flows into the sea.
There are plenty of other beaches in Kannur for you to discover. But apart from beaches, what makes Kannur special are the backwaters. The most well-known and popular backwaters of Kerala are in the south. But the Kavvayi backwaters and islands in Kannur are an underrated gem, for sure. Kavvayi is the largest wetland in north Kerala and the third largest in all of Kerala.
The flavours of Kannur
Malabar in general is the land of "salkaram,” which roughly translates to hosting a feast or guest or simply a hearty welcome. Kannur exceeds expectations when it comes to culinary delights.
The iconic thalassery dum biryani and the kadukka (mussels) biryani are the most popular biryani varieties native to Kannur. Kannur is a heaven for seafood lovers, with its delightful seafood dishes laced with spices and coconut. Kannur also offers a range of unique snacks and breads that are native to the land. Unnakai, kallumakkaya Nirachathu (stuffed mussels), kalathappam, kinnathappam, kannurappam, kozhikaal, and kaipola are a few of the most popular snacks in this region.
Kannur cocktail is a non-alcoholic mocktail that’s popular all over Kannur, made with papaya, chilled milk, pomegranates, and other dry fruits. If you are a food lover, you will find new things to try in each corner of Kannur. The diversity of cuisines and the blend of cooking styles from all over the world make Kannur cuisine an exhilarating experience that you shouldn’t miss.
Welcome to Kannur
So, have you started planning your trip to Kannur? Whether it is for business or leisure, if you are searching for the best hotels in Kannur, search no further!
The Broad Bean Hotel, located in the heart of Kannur City, is the perfect stay you are looking for. Among the star hotels in Kannur, Broad Bean excels with 12 years of industry experience, top-notch amenities and services, and accessibility. If you are searching for an idyllic blend of convenience, luxury, and comfort during your stay during your Kannur visit, choose Broad Bean for customized services and an extraordinary experience in the land of looms and lores.