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1. Payyambalam Beach

2 km from city center 1 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

The impeccably unspoilt Payyabalam beach is adorned with sparkling pearls of golden sand and foamy white waves of the Arabian Sea. The highlight of Kannur and one of the many beautiful beaches of Kerala, it has an incredibly peaceful and inviting aura.

2. Muzhappilangad Beach

12 km from city center 2 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

The Muzzhapilangad Drive-in Beach at Kannur is one referred to with many superlatives- as the longest drive-in beach in the whole of India, as one of the cleanest beaches of Kannur and most importantly, as one of the best drive-in beaches that the entire Asian continent has to offer.

3. St Angelo Fort

2 km from city center 3 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

St Angelo's Fort is definitely one of the most popular and frequently visited attractions of Kannur and for more reasons than one. The polished yet prehistoric structure of this fortress oozes with unadulterated elegance and overwhelming power. Standing ashore in the Arabian sea, it enjoys a panoramic and unobstructed view of the diorama created by the merger of the magnetic waves and the azure waters. It also overlooks the mesmerising Mopilla Bay, a natural harbour.

4. Kannur Lighthouse

2 km from city center 4 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Being Kerala's first lighthouse ever and Kannur's only one, the Kannur Lighthouse is a pretty big deal. This cylindrical concrete tower has a balcony with a light that is lit as the evening breaks in to alert the seamen of the land.

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5. Parassinikkadavu Snake Park

13 km from city center 5 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Regarded as one of the finest snake sanctuaries of Asia, the Parassinikadavu Snake Park is the pride of the south. This snake park is one of the most prominent reptile preservation centres in the country and is the only one in Kerala. It is home to over 150 different species of reptiles like crocodiles, monitor lizards and snakes- both venomous and non-venomous.

6. Baby Beach

2 km from city center 6 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

The Baby Beach in Kannur, as the name suggests, is a tiny yet an extremely attractive beach along the shore of the Arabian Sea. Don't be mistaken by its name or size, this beach is a very happening picnic spot for the locals of Kannur and attracts the attention of many tourists with its panoramic view of the azure Arabian Sea.

7. Arakkal Museum

2 km from city center 7 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

The Arakkal Museum in Kannur city is one of the most significant and frequently visited attractions of the south that celebrates the memory and grandeur of Kerala's only Muslim royal family- the Arakkal Ali Rajas. This museum is a testimony to the impeccable Muslim architecture and design.

8. Palakkayam Thattu

0 km from city center 8 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Tucked away in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats and soaring at a dizzying altitude of 3500 feet above sea level, Palakayyam Thattu is one of the most beautiful hill stations in the entire state of Kerala. Adorned with luxuriously dense greenery, sky-touching trees and majestic hillocks, the view that Palakayyam Thattu enjoys is one that you will rarely find.

9. Madayipara

21 km from city center 9 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Perched up on a hillock near Pazhayagandi in the scenic city of Kannur, Madayipara is renowned as one of the most beautiful landscapes in the entire state of Kerala. Often compared with the famous Tulip Gardens of Amsterdam, Madayipara is better known as 'the land of flowers'.

10. Ezhimala

24 km from city center 10 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Ezhimala, once served as the capital of erstwhile Mooshika kings, today it is a site of great historical significance. The land has been witness to many great events from war of Chola-Chera to headquarters of the Ezhimala Radii.

11. Taliparamba

18 km from city center 11 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

A popular city located in Kannur District, it is mainly known for its District Agricultural Farm established in year 1905. The city is also home to two famous temples namely Shree Rajarajeswara Temple and the Trichambaram Temple.

12. Paithalmala

38 km from city center 12 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

A small hill station tucked in the forest of Kodagu in the Kannur district of Kerala, Pythal Mala is one of the most beautiful peaks in the Western Ghats that mesmerizes anyone who has been here.

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13. Parassinikkadavu

13 km from city center 13 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

About 16 km away from Kannur, Parassinikkadavu is a town popular for its Muthappan Temple and Parassinikkadavu Snake Park. The Muthappan temple, dedicated to Sree Muthappan is the only Hindu temple in the state which witnesses a Theyyam performance daily as per ritual.

14. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

46 km from city center 14 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Being the northernmost wildlife reserve in the whole of Kerala and the only wildlife sanctuary in Kannur, the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is quite a big deal. Amidst these sky-touching trees and mesmerising greenery, many exotic wildlife species have marked their territory.

15. Peralassery

13 km from city center 15 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

At a distance of about 15 km from Kannur is the town of Peralassery, known for its Peralassery Subrahmanya Temple. It is believed that on their way to Lanka to free Goddess Sita, Lord Ram and Lord Laxman, stopped at the temple for a while and they left a bangle here.

16. Theyyam

1 km from city center 16 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Bringing life to intriguing myths and exciting legends, the Theyyam festival is one of the most eagerly awaited festivals of the vibrant city of Kannur. Drawing the attention of thousands of people every year from across the country, this festival is renowned as the most remarkable and riveting art form of Malabar, the northern part of Kerala. This joyous celebration includes performances of over four hundred different traditional folk dances and is celebrated to appease the many local deities, gods, goddesses and heroes of the gripping ancient legends. Performers are dressed in attractive traditional costumes, captivating headgear and alluring ornaments with colourful face paints and creative face masks on.

17. Meenkunnu Beach

7 km from city center 17 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

An extension of famous beach namely Payyambalam Beach in the region, it is a sight of pure beauty. Located a few kilometers from Kannur in Azhikode, the beach is a long stretch of sandy coastline and clear water.

18. Pallikunnu

2 km from city center 18 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Pallikunnu is another major town lying in the vicinity to Kannur nearly 3 km away. This town is best known for its ancient temple Shree Mookambika Temple, dedicated to Goddess Mookambika.

19. Shopping in Kannur

1 km from city center 19 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Your trip to this beautiful beach town is incomplete without shopping. The pace is a hub of many bazaars and is a shopper's paradise. Do buy local handicrafts, saris and earthenware products.

20. Thottada Beach

7 km from city center 20 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Between the coastal towns of Kannur and Thalassery along the Malabar Coast lies the scenic Thottada Beach. The cleanliness, solitude and tranquillity are part of the charm of the beach, making it the ideal getaway for anyone looking to escape the noise of the city and reconnect with nature and themselves.

21. Ezhara Beach

8 km from city center 21 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

This palm-fringed beach is actually a rock-strewn one with crimson cliffs and giant rocks lining up the coastline in the most attractive and scenic way possible. The Ezhara Beach is sure to charm you with the panoramic view of the azure waters of the Arabian Sea and its foamy white waves crashing against the rocks.

22. Sundareswara Temple

1 km from city center 22 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

A very popular and frequently visited temple of the south, the Sundareswara Temple in Kannur is essentially a place like heaven for all the Lord Shiva devotees. Here, Lord Shiva is worshipped and adulated as Lord Sundareswara, the 'God of Beauty'.

23. Pappinisseri

8 km from city center 23 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Moonu Pettumma Palli is a famous mosque which is located in the town of Pappinisseri. Popularly known as Kattile Palli, the mosque is popular for its Kattile Palli Nercha festival.

24. Dharmadam Beach

15 km from city center 24 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Located on Dharmadam Island on the edge of the rustic but vibrant city of Kannur, the Dharmadam Beach is a stunning golden shore and an absolute heaven for those who want to treat themselves after a weary week. The Dharmadam Island is an attraction of its own and its peculiarity is that during a low tide, you can literally walk up to this island by wading through water that is barely even knee deep.

25. Mridanga Saileswari Temple

25 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Located in the Muzhakunnu, Kannur district of Kerala, Mridanga Saileswari Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. Believed to be among the top 108 Durga temples in ancient Kerala, the deity here was installed by Lord Parshurama- the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Enshrined by Mridanga Saileswari, who is a four armed Goddess Durga. She holds a conch and a disc in the arms behind, while one front arm is blessing a devotee and the last one rests on her waist. The temple which was in ruins for a long time in between, has currently been restored to its original royal form. The most important festivals celebrated in the temple are Navratri and Pooram Mahotasavam.

26. Vismaya Water Park

13 km from city center 26 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Located near Taliparamba in Kannur in Kerala, Vismaya Water Park is a water themed park which is replete with a plethora of amusing rides and thrilling water sports. Spread across 30 acres of land area, the water park was inaugurated in August 2008, the water park boasts of a host of splash pools in addition to other facilities like a conference hall, prayer halls, restaurants and casual shops etc.

27. Mappila Bay

2 km from city center 27 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Mappila Bay, or Mopila Bay, is a natural harbour located in the city of Kannur in Kerala. In its past, the Mappila Bay served as a major port, connecting the Malabar to lands far and wide. The Bay is surrounded by some colonial-era architecture, in the magnificent Fort St. Angelo, built by the Portuguese in the 15th century. There's also the Arrakulam Palace and Museum on the other side of the harbour, dedicated to the Arakulam kingdom that ruled the Cannanore city-state in the 1500s.

28. Kavvayi Islands

5 km from city center 28 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

Kavvayi Island is situated near Payyanur, a town in northern Kerala. Kavvayi Islands are spread over an area of approximately 37 square kilometers and are surrounded by the Kavvayi backwaters, which is a picturesque network of lagoons, rivers, and canals. Recorded in the travel writings of scholars and explorers Ibn Battuta and Marco Polo, Kavil Pattanam, now called Kavvayi, has been recreated into a beautiful island. Spread over the districts of Kannur and Kasaragod, the Kavvayi islands, also called Kavvayi Kayal) are the largest backwater island group in north Kerala.

29. Cherupuzha

44 km from city center 29 out of 29 Places To Visit in Kannur

A hill station in Kannur, Kerala, Cherupuzha is a part of the Western Ghat mountain ranges in India. It is surrounded by nature and has dense forests. This is one of the many reasons tourists flock to this land to seek the remoteness and tranquility of nature.

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Places to Visit in Kannur

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Tourist Places to Visit in Kannur

Here are some of the best places to visit in kannur:.

St. Angelo Fort

Considered as one of the most historic sites in Kannur, the St. Angelo Fort was constructed by the first Portuguese viceroy of India. The fort is triangular in shape appears as a massive yet magnificent structure standing at the helm of the ruthless sea.  The laterite walls made of stone lend it an even more imposing air and it is a must-visit destination for architecture students. The sea wall segregating the fort from the sea provides breathtaking views of the Mopilla Bay. Visit the fort for taking a relaxing walk in the complex and enjoy stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

Distance :  2.0 km from Kannur bus stand.

Timings:  8 AM to 6 PM, every day

Entry fee:  INR 10.

Muzhappilangad Beach

Palakkayam Thattu

Palakkayam Thattu is one of the alluring places to visit in Kannur near the Western Ghats because of the verdant greenery and dizzying height of about 3350 feet above the sea level. It also happens to be one of the most visited hill stations in the state of Kerala. Populated by dense forests and several hillocks, the quaint hamlet is a favoured destination for avid trekkers.

Best of Kerala

Kannur Lighthouse

Vismaya Water Park

Vismaya Water Park is one of the most visited tourist places in Kannur. The water park found its way into the limelight in the year 2008 by the Malabar Tourism Development Co-operative Limited (MTDC) and since then it has been boasting with its world-class architecture of splash pools, amusement rides, restaurants, casual shops, prayer halls, and conference halls that the tourists enjoy.

Payyambalam Beach

Best of Munnar

Mapilla Bay

Paithalmala

Best of Wayanad

Ezhara Beach

Best of Cochin

Sundareswara Temple

Peralassery

Taliparamba

Best of Kochi

Pappinisseri

Dharmadam Island

Tellicherry Fort

Best of Thekkady

Meenkunnu Beach

Ready to drown out your worries and drift into a land where there is only serenity and calm? Welcome to Meenkunnu beach, one of the most beautiful Kannur tourist places. The golden sandy beaches and idle sea are ready to capture your heart and transport you to a different world.  Enjoy the local cultural heritage by engaging with the local fishermen and relishing in the traditional spicy treats. Explore the little shacks around the area or just take long walks on the beach. Sip on some coconut water and enjoy sunbathing. Watch the days roll by idly at Meenkunnu. Distance :  11.2 km from Kannur bus stand. Timings:  No timing restrictions Entry fee:  No entry fee.

Parassinikkadavu Snake Park

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

Best of Varkala

Thottada Beach

The untouched beauty of Thottada beach makes it one of the most popular places to visit in Kannur. The beach is completely segregated from concrete jungles and offers a place full of serenity and tranquillity to its visitors. The cleanliness and solitude offered by this beach are truly unsurpassed.  Take a stroll along the pristine sandy beaches hand in hand with your partner and make some of the most romantic memories of your life. Nature lovers will find themselves completely at home and photography aficionados can take stunning photos of the natural vistas around. Distance:  7.4 km from Kannur bus stand. Timings:  No timing restriction Entry fee:  No entry fee.

Kannur Beach

The Fort Road Market

Best of Idukki

Arakkal Museum

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Places to Visit in Kannur | Kannur Tourism

Kannur, the cradle of Theyyam is a lively melange of beautiful beaches, historic sites, interesting folk arts and music, rituals, religious practices and festivities. This “land of Looms and Lores” is a delightful quite town of Malabar lies towards north of Kozhikode and Wayanad .

Kannur derived its name from the location of district headquarters at Kannur town. In the olden days it was called as ‘Cannanore’, the anglicised form of Kannur. Another popular belief regarding the origin of its name is that Kannur might have got its name from a compound of two words Kannan (Lord Krishna) and Ur (place) making it the Place of lord Krishna.

Kannur is called as the Naura in the 1st century CE Greek Travelogue ‘The Periplus of the Erythraean Sea’. The Great traveller Marco Polo called it as ‘a great emporium of the spice trade’. The construction of St Angelo's Fort in the year 1505 by Europeans brought worldwide glory and fame to this wonderful place.

This idyllic quite town holds an eventful past with flourishing myths and legends. The history of kannur is a tale worth hearing. For a long period Kannur was under the control of so many Local Rajas. The Kolathiris sanctioned the St Angelo’s Fort during their ruling period.

Later Arakkal Ali Rajas, the only Muslim Royal Family of Kerala came into power. The Queen of Arakkal controlled the parts of coast and even Lakshadweep island. The rich spices of the land lured many European Powers, beginning with Portuguese in the year 1498, then followed Dutch and the English.

Fortifications at Thalassery, St. Angelo Fort and the solemn churches surrounded by mildewed gravestones speaks of the European presence. The articulate evidence of the rich cultural heritage lies in the ancient monuments, mosques, temples and churches of the city.

Kannur has been called as the cradle of Theyyam, a dazzling folk art and music since olden days. Even in the present days the myriads of Kavus or small shrines are the centres of Theyyam which makes it a land of wonderful fantasies.

Theyyam, a unique combination of music and dance reflects features of tribal dance. This ritual dance based on religion accompanied by devotional hymns add an aura of divine radiance to it.

Burnassery, the only cantonment in Kerala with its colonial buildings,churches, mosques and temples reflects the multi-cultural and multi-religious face of the city. Kannur can also be proud of its largest Cinnamon Plantation of Asia, Ezhimala, one of the biggest Naval Academy and the one and only drive in beach of the country.

Kannur: Places to Visit & Things to Do

The wonderful natural and cultural sites of Kannur will entice your heart in the very first sight. Being a land of pristine beaches you can enjoy the Sea in all its forms. The huge forts add an elegant charm to the history of the city.

The city of Kannur lies between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea is home to many sandy beaches entwined with rows of green coconut palms. Some of the main beaches in Kannur are Payyambalam Beach, Meenkunnu Beach and Mopila Bay.

There are so many small beautiful ancient shrines scattered in different regions of Kannur. Situated amidst the peaceful ambiance of coconut and Banana Groves these are truly elegant. They are simple small structures of wood and brick. Thalassery is a place worth visiting near Kannur. Thalassery is situated at a distance of 22 km away from Kannur.

Places to Visit in Kannur

1. st angelo’s fort / kannur fort.

St Angelo’s fort also called as Kannur Fort is a massive triangular laterite fort dramatically situated against the sea. This historical fort witnessed several wars for seizing the control of the fort. In 1663, the fort was under the control of Dutch who later sold it to Ali Raja of Kannur.

In 1790 the British who seized control over the fort, renovated and equipped it to be their most important military station in Malabar. The fort has a legendary past. The fort has been maintained well by the Archaeological Survey of India. It's a protected monument.

From the fort you can enjoy the fascinating view of the Mappila Bay and Dharmadam island. The Mappila Bay is a natural fishing Bay. Boats and small crafts moored in the bay offers an excellent photographic location.

A sea wall projecting from the fort separates the sea and inland water. Cashew trees are there within the compound which are said to be planted by the Portuguese who introduced the plant to India. Fort visiting Hours are from 8 am to 6 pm.

2. Arakkal Kettu

Arakkal Kettu is situated 3 km from Kannur. This is the royal residence of Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal dynasty in Kerala. They controlled the coastal areas and Lakshadweep . This 200 year old palace is considered as a protected monument by the Archaeological department.

The Arakkal kettu comprises of the palace, administrative block, mosques and residential building. There is a huge bronze bell hung in the bell tower near the gate. Arakkal Museum is also a part of it. The museum was once the durbar hall and was converted in the year 2005. This double stored museum has various artifacts which are kept for display.

The main items displayed here are Shehnai - a musical instrument, old model fans, telephones, ancient compass, royal furniture, glass, silver and bronze utensils, wooden box and hunting equipments like sword, spear etc. Arakkal Kettu is located close to St Angelo’s Fort.

3. Parassinikadavu Sree Muthappan Temple

The Parassinikadavu Temple dedicated to Sree Muthappan, a Hindu Deity who love toddy and fried fish stands in the picturesque surroundings on the banks of the River Valapattanam. Muthappan, an incarnation of Maha Vishnu and Son of Shiva is worshipped commonly in Kannur.

Worship of Muthappan is unique, as it does not follow the Sattvic (Brahminical) form of worship, like in other Hindu temples. The main mode of worship is via a ritual enactment of Muthappan, performed daily at the Parassinikadavu temple. Fish is used as an offering to Muthappan.

The origin of this temple is connected to the appearance of a child who roamed the region with a string of interesting incidents and later vanished without a trace. The incidents up to the point of his disappearance later made the denizens feel the divine presence of Muthappan (Siva) who immediately erected a place of worship.

Today that is popularly known as the Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple. The temple is a perfect example of unity and religious harmony. It promotes the essence of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam - The whole world is one family’. People of all castes, religions and nationalities are permitted to enter the temple and take part in the worship.

The temple has become a popular destination among travellers and pilgrims to savour the charm of Theyyam, a ritual that is performed here on a daily basis which represents the conflict between good and evil with the ultimate victory of good.

4. Snake Park

Near the Parassinikadavu Sree Muthappan Temple is the Snake Park. Situated at a distance of 16 km from Kannur this is the only one of its kind in the state. The snake Park setup by the Visha Chikitsa Kendra that is the antivenom treatment centre at Pappinisseri.

It has been a center of attraction to both foreign and domestic tourists. This Kendra offers effective treatment for snakebites with complete cure. This is the only place, where Ayurveda and Allopathy are effectively combined for curing snake bites.

5. Valapattanam Backwaters

Valapattanam River, the lengthiest in Malabar originates in the Western Ghats of Kodagu in Karnataka. The Parassini Sree Muthappan temple reflection lights up the river before it meets the Arabian Sea near Valapattanam. Valapattanam situated about 8 km north of Kannur is famous for timber trade.

Valapattanam was once considered third in the world for timber operations. As Legends this is the place where King Solomon’s ship anchored and collected timber to build the ‘Temple of the lord’. Kannur districts rich forest resources with some commonly found flora being Iruli, Teak, sandalwood, rubber, cashew nuts, Tea and Coffee met the need of timber.

Valapattanam river used to be the main trade route during ancient times. The present days this is a heaven for beach lovers and one of the popular sights here is the traditional mode of timber transportation- when long pieces of timber are allowed to float down the streams which are then collected at the desired shore.

6. Payyambalam Beach

Payyambalam is the biggest beach of Kannur is a favorite haunt of tourists. The main attractions of this beach are the well laid out gardens and the massive landscaped sculpture of mother & child erected by noted sculptor Kanayi Kunhiraman.

7. Meenkunnu Beach

Meenkunnu Beach is situated at Azhikode, 11 km away from Kannur city is a tourist's paradise with golden sand & surf. This breezy isolated beach with palm grooves is the best place to relax.

8. The Mopila Bay

The Mopila Bay is a beautiful place to visit. Situated close to the St.Angelo's Fort this was the seat of Kolathiri Rajas centuries ago. The Kadalayi Fort and Sree Krishna Temple were other famous attractions here. The remnants of the fort and the temple are still seen in Mopila Bay. The main attraction of the bay is a fishing harbor, built with Indo Norwegian project assistance.

9. Peralassery Sri Subrahmanya Temple

Peralassery Sri Subrahmanya temple, located at about 15 km from Kannur, is one of the famous shrines in Malabar. Lord Subrahmanya, son of Lord Siva, is the presiding deity of this temple. The temple is said to be connected with the famous epic, 'Ramayana'.

The temple also has a shrine for the serpent God and has a number of bronze and copper idols of snakes. The speciality is large number of devotees comes to get rid of Naga Kopa.

10. Rajarajeswari Temple

Rajarajeswari Temple is situated at Taliparamba, 25 km away from Kannur. Taliparamba or Perinchalloor was one among the 64 brahminical settlement. The old name of Taliparamba was 'Lakshmipura' as this place was considered as an abode of prosperity.

Legend has it that the head of Sati fell here after Shiva's tandava following Sati's self-immolation. So this temple is popularly known as Rajarajeswari Temple. This is among 108 ancient Kerala temples dedicated to Lord Siva.

There is a belief that the child born to the women who worship him will attain a high status. The Siva Linga here is believed to be Thousands of years old. Taliparamba Temple is also connected with two more temples - Trichambaram Sree Krishna Temple and Cherukunnu Annapoorneshwari Temple .

Shopping in Kannur

Kannur is well known for its high quality handloom and handicrafts. Since ancient times Kannur is known for its cotton hand looms, which also form an important item for foreign trade. Several weaving centers and exports flourish here. These hand loom products from Kannur have high demand even in European countries.

Some of the leading Handloom Export houses include the Leela Fashions, Raja Rajeswari Weaving mills, Mascot Industries, Dhanalakshmi Weaving Mills, and Anand Textiles. Kerala State Handloom Development Corporation is presently exporting products to USA and many European countries.

These products include sarees, shirts, ready-mades, furnishing, tablecloths, mats, napkins, pillow covers, cushion covers, bed spreads, curtains, draperies, potholders and aprons in made up fabric. You can shop all these products in a very reasonable price. You can buy Brass and bell metal lamps of all shapes and sizes from Kannur.

Where To Eat in Kannur

Kannur is well known for its delicious cuisines. There are a variety of Veg and Non Veg dishes which are very popular. Malabar Biriyani that is of fish, chicken or meat is a much popular dish in Kannur. You can enjoy all the local delicacies in the hotels like Palm Grove and Mascot Beach Resort and also at Cool Land on MA Road.

Hotel Meridien Palaces 24 hour Hot Stone Restaurant offers 32 variety of Dosas. You can have the real Kerala dishes from the multi cuisine Paris Restaurant at Royal Omar’s. Lakshmi Homestay, Gardens,Chiffonnette are some other good food joints. In Kannur you can try a special sweet called Kinnathappam made of Jaggery and coconut.

Where To Stay in Kannur

Kannur has some of the best stay options including home stays. Some of the Best Hotels in Kannur are:

Cliff Exotel Beach Resort

This is a fully air conditioned Resort with 14 well equipped rooms situated close to Payyambalam Beach. This resort offers Ayurvedic centre, Multi cuisine restaurant, 24 hrs Internet facility, sightseeing and backwater cruises.

Malabar Residency

Hotel Malabar Residency is a three star business Hotel at 1 km from the beach and near business and market areas. The hotel offers AC Deluxe and Suite Accommodation, Conference Hall and Board Room, Banquet Hall, Multi cuisine Restaurant and Ayurvedic centre.

Mascot Beach Resort

Situated at about 1 km from Kannur city this beautiful resort is located on a hillock facing the Great Arabian Sea in a calm and romantic environment. All rooms in this Resort are face the beach and its lighthouse.

Costa Malabari

The Costa Malabari beach guest house is situated 8 kms from the Kannur Railway station. in the peaceful ambiance of secluded, clean golden beaches of Kannur. There are three homely bungalows with four well maintained rooms which are just a couple of minutes walk from the beach. The hotel takes you handloom shopping, bird watching and village visits.

Royal Omar’s

With 63 well equipped rooms the hotel boasts of an Ayurvedic Spa, a fitness centre, a curio shop and Art gallery. It is walkable distance away from the Main Bus Stand and easy to reach.

Dew n Drops Resorts & Homestays

Situated in Pallikkunnu close to Kannur town this offers 2 rooms, home cooked meals, Ayurveda, Internet and sightseeing tours.

Motel Aaram

This motel is located on the Kannur - Mangalore National Highway, about 20 km from Kannur. This offers 2 budget rooms at Kannur University towards Parassinikadavu. There is a restaurant, Beer and Ice cream parlors in here.

Palmgrove Tourist Home & Resort

This wonderful resort is located in the residence of last Arakkal Ali Raja with a garden in the back. The home has elegantly transformed the 18 rooms including eight deluxe AC, three deluxe non-AC, two ordinary AC, three non-AC double and two non-AC single. You can enjoy traditional Kerala Dishes here.

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From Heritage to Folklore: 10+ Best Things To Do in Kannur (2024)

Go on a charming adventure as a tourist or traveller to Kannur, where the cultural richness unfolds with every step in this coastal gem of Kerala. Each street, every story, and every tradition contributes to a narrative that smoothly stitches heritage and folklore. Offering a living example of its historical legacy and vibrant folklore, Kannur welcomes you with open arms. Discover the best things to do in Kannur and explore ancient forts steeped in tales of yesteryears.

Despite numerous visits to Kerala, including Kochi and Wayanad, Kannur had always escaped my exploration. However, on this occasion, my friend and I received the chance to travel and behold the cultural grandeur that graces this exquisite district. The charm of Kannur, with its unique blend of tradition and beauty, unfolded before me, offering a fresh perspective on the rich cultural tapestry that defines this region.

From vibrant festivals to age-old traditions like Theyyam, Kannur became a fantastic destination, adding a new layer to my understanding of Kerala’s diverse and culturally vibrant landscape. This visit marked my introduction to Kannur and left an everlasting impression, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the distinctive charm that sets this district apart within the fascinating state of Kerala.

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here .

Page Contents

About Kannur

Located in the northern part of the Indian state of Kerala, on the Malabar Coast, bordered by the Western Ghats to the east and the Arabian Sea to the west, Kannur district is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical significance and natural beauty.

With a deep historical significance and an important trading centre in ancient times, Kannur has witnessed the presence of various colonial powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, which has left a lasting impact on its culture and architecture.

Kannur district has seven towns, and during my travel, I explored and visited three towns:

• Kannur town,
• Kannur Cantonment,
• Thalassery,
• Taliparamba,
• Kuthuparamba, and

10+ Best Things To Do in Kannur

Take a guided heritage walk.

Exploring Kannur’s rich heritage through a guided heritage walk is an absolute must for history enthusiasts. With its diverse cultural and historical landmarks, Kannur offers a captivating journey into the past. Kannur City Heritage Foundation organises regular guided tours, providing participants with insightful narratives and stories about the city’s history, culture, traditions, and architectural gems.

Recommended Time: 3 to 4 hours Operator : Kannur City Heritage Foundation Contact Number : +91 79945 80619 Cost : Rupees 1500 per adult

As you embark on this immersive experience, you will discover the fascinating and bygone stories about Kannur’s iconic landmarks, from ancient forts to vibrant markets. The heritage walk unfolds the layers of Kannur’s cultural side, offering glimpses into the former eras that have shaped the city’s identity.

Expect to be enchanted by the majestic St. Angelo Fort, witness the bustling activity at historic markets like Fort Road Bazaar, and delve into the significance of landmarks like the Arakkal Museum. The knowledgeable guides from the Kannur City Heritage Foundation bring history to life, sharing snippets and legends that add a dynamic dimension to your exploration.

As the owner and founder of Bengaluru Prayana , an organisation dedicated to heritage walks in Bengaluru/ Bangalore , embarking on this guided heritage walk in Kannur held particular significance for me. Given my profound appreciation for heritage and history, this experience was significant. I firmly believe in preserving and safeguarding our cultural legacy for the benefit of future generations, making this journey through Kannur’s heritage an essential and fulfilling endeavour.

Whether you are a history buff or simply eager to connect with the cultural roots of Kannur, the heritage walk promises a delightful journey through time, providing a deeper understanding of this enchanting city on the Malabar Coast.

Visit the Historical Site of St. Angelo Fort

Perched majestically on the shores of the Arabian Sea, the St. Angelo Fort in Kannur is an example of the rich history of Kerala’s Malabar Coast. This imposing fort, also known as Kannur Fort, holds a strategic position overlooking the sea, and its history is convoluted with the maritime trade routes and colonial ambitions that shaped the region.

Recommended Time: 2 hours Opening Times : 8 AM to 6 PM (Ticket Counter closes at 5:30 PM) Entrance Fee : Rupees 25 per adult for Indians and Rupees 300 per adult for Foreigners Purchasing of tickets is available at the ticket counter at the entrance

Constructed in 1505 by the Portuguese explorer Dom Francisco de Almeida , the fort was initially a wooden structure before being rebuilt with massive laterite stones by the Dutch in the 1660s. It eventually fell into the hands of the British East India Company in the late 18th century.

With its robust bastions and well-planned architecture, the St. Angelo Fort was a military stronghold during various colonial conflicts. Today, the fort is a well-preserved ruin where you will be transported back in time, imagining the echoes of historical events that unfolded within its walls.

With views of the Arabian Sea, the fort provides a stunning backdrop to its storied past. You can explore the remnants of the chapel, the lighthouse, and the underground chamber that once held ammunition. St. Angelo Fort has been declared a protected monument, ideal for history enthusiasts and curious travellers to delve into its fascinating narrative and discover the layers of heritage that define this iconic site on the Malabar Coast.

A cannon within the fort remains with an undischarged ball still lodged inside, preserving a historical moment frozen in time. During our visit to the fort, we had the opportunity to observe this cannon. Also, we witnessed the archaeological department routinely cleaning the cannonballs, adding a sense of authenticity to our historical exploration.

Watch the Theyyam Performance

As the day ends and the sun sets, displaying the golden glow over the rustic surroundings, the vibrant and mystical Theyyam performance comes to life in Kannur’s lush, natural setting. As the sacred grove becomes the stage for this ancient ritual, the air is filled with the heady scent of incense, and the rhythmic beats of traditional drums echo through the open space.

Recommended Time: 2 hours To witness a Theyyam performance in its authentic setting, an invitation from the family sponsoring the Theyyam ceremony is required. Alternatively, you can enjoy Theyyam performances at temples and other sacred locations by purchasing an entrance ticket.

Dressed in elaborate costumes decorated with vivid colours and intricate designs, the performers transform into demigods, embodying the divine spirits they invoke. The torches’ flickering flames illuminate their faces, creating a magical atmosphere that blurs the line between the earthly and the divine.

The sound of traditional music intensifies, setting the tempo for the dancers who move with an otherworldly grace. Each step and each gesture is a homage to centuries-old traditions passed down through generations. The audience witnesses the convergence of art, spirituality, and nature.

With their elaborate headdresses and exaggerated expressions, the performers transport to a realm where folklore and faith combine. The natural setting, such as the forest, adds authenticity to the experience, with the rustling leaves and distant sounds of wildlife becoming an integral part of the performance.

The pinnacle of my Kannur journey was experiencing the Theyyam performance in its authentic setting and the extraordinary moment of receiving personal blessings from the Theyyam afterwards. This encounter was profoundly special and stirred deep emotions within me, making it a truly unforgettable and touching experience.

Drink the Refreshing Kannur Cocktail

The Kannur Cocktail is a refreshing blend that captures the essence of the coastal town’s vibrant culture and tropical spirit. With a base of coconut water, the cocktail is a mix of freshly squeezed jackfruit juice, ginger syrup, and fresh mint leaves.

Recommended Time: 30 minutes

Begin with a base of coconut water sourced from the pristine coasts of Kannur, providing a crisp and hydrating foundation. Add a freshly squeezed jackfruit juice splash to infuse a local twist, a fruit abundant in the region.

For a hint of spice, add a touch of ginger syrup, paying homage to the region’s rich spice trade history. Muddle fresh mint leaves plucked from the town’s verdant gardens to elevate the cocktail.

Serve the Kannur Cocktail over ice in a coconut shell or a glass, garnished with a mint sprig and a jackfruit slice. The result is a harmonious blend of flavours that embodies the lively spirit of Kannur, making it the perfect libation to savour while basking in the town’s natural beauty.

The Kannur Cocktail is a substantial beverage that can serve as a meal. When my friend and I ordered the cocktail, it was notably robust, and ours even included an abundance of dry fruits.

Learn about Theyyam at Kerala Folklore Academy

Discover the fascinating world of Theyyam, where over 400 distinct forms exist, except for one performed by a female. Housed in the old Chirakkal royal family’s home, the Kerala Folklore Academy serves as a treasure trove of such intriguing details, offering a wealth of information on the rich cultural tapestry of Theyyam.

Recommended Time: 2 hours Opening Times : 8 AM to 6 PM (Ticket Counter closes at 5:30 PM) Entrance Fee : Rupees 100 per adult for Indians and Rupees 300 per adult for Foreigners Additional charges of Rupees 60 per camera and Rupees 100 per video camera Purchase tickets at the entrance

Unfolding the diversity within this traditional art form, the academy and museum share captivating insights into the unique rituals, makeup, vibrant costumes, and the significance of each Theyyam. Beyond the sheer number, it delves into the cultural nuances that make Theyyam a captivating expression of Kerala’s heritage.

Immerse yourself in the captivating narratives and explore the depth of this ancient tradition at the Kerala Folklore Academy, where every Theyyam unfolds a story of cultural richness and artistic mastery. You can also find information on other art forms of Kerala, such as Thiruvathirakali and Kathakali .

Kayak Your Way to Mangrove Forests

This activity in Kannur was one of my favourites. You can venture on a memorable adventure as you kayak your way to the picturesque mangrove forests in Udumbunthala near Kannur. This offbeat and quiet town offers a unique opportunity to explore the serene beauty of mangroves, providing an eco-friendly and immersive experience.

Recommended Time: 2 to 3 hours Operator : Mangrove Vibe Kayaking Contact Number : +91 79945 80619 Cost : Rupees 300 per person You can also do a night kayaking (unique experience)

Setting out from one of the local kayak rental providers, Mangrove Vibe Kayaking , paddle gently along the meandering backwaters that take you to the mangrove ecosystem. The tranquil environment is a haven for birdwatchers, as you may spot various species of migratory and resident birds amid the lush greenery. It is also the best spot to see the sunset.

As you glide through the water, look for the unique flora and fauna that call the mangroves home. Mangrove roots often serve as nurseries for marine life, such as juvenile fish and crabs, contributing to the area’s rich biodiversity.

The stillness of the mangrove forests creates a peaceful atmosphere, offering a pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy adds a memorable magic touch to your kayaking journey.

Whether you are an experienced kayaker or a beginner, exploring the mangrove forests near Kannur provides a refreshing and immersive experience that allows you to connect with nature uniquely. Don’t forget your camera to capture the beauty of this coastal haven from a perspective only accessible by kayak.

You can disembark from your kayak in the mangrove forests and stroll through the breathtaking and refreshing natural surroundings. Despite not being dressed for such an occasion, I was undeterred and eagerly left my kayak to explore the spectacular mangrove trees on foot. The immersive experience of walking amidst the lush mangroves allowed me to truly appreciate this ecosystem’s unique beauty.

See the family history of the Arakkal Family at the Arakkal Museum

The Arakkal Museum is a testament to the rich history and heritage of the Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal family in Kerala. The museum is situated in the Arakkal Kettu, the palace complex that once served as the residence of the Arakkal Ali Rajas.

Recommended Time: 1 to 1.5 hours

The museum has a collection of artifacts that once belonged to the Arakkal family. These include royal costumes, jewellery, weapons, and other personal belongings, providing a tangible connection to the lives of the royals.

Visiting the Arakkal Museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of the Arakkal family, providing a cultural and historical journey through the lives of this unique Muslim royal lineage in Kerala.

Savour Authentic and Home-cooked Thalassery Biryani

Having an authentic and home-cooked Thalassery Biryani is a culinary delight that takes you on a flavorful journey through the rich gastronomic heritage of the Kannur district, mainly the Thalassery region.

Recommended Time: 2 to 3 hours Host : Uppu Homestay for lunch Cost : Rupees 1000 per person for the entire meal

Thalassery Biryani is famous for its strong mix of flavoured spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and bay leaves. These spices create a tantalising aroma.

What sets Thalassery Biryani apart is its layered cooking technique. The partially cooked rice is layered with the marinated chicken/meat and fried onions in a heavy-bottomed pan. Each layer is infused with ghee, enhancing the biryani’s richness.

Home-cooked Thalassery Biryani’s authenticity lies in the cook’s personal touch. Each household may have unique variations and secret ingredients, making every plate a distinctive culinary experience.

Uppu Homestay in Thalassery graciously hosted us, extending a warm and familial reception that made us feel cherished and valued. The care and hospitality we received mirrored the warmth one would expect within their own family, creating a memorable and heartwarming experience during our stay.

Savouring a plate of authentic Thalassery Biryani is a cultural experience that reflects the culinary prowess and traditions of the region. Whether enjoyed during a festive occasion or as a comforting family meal at a local home, Thalassery Biryani is a celebration of flavours that linger in the memory.

Stroll around Thalassery Heritage Street

Thalassery Heritage Street is a delightful promenade that allows visitors to indulge themselves in the rich history, culture, and architectural charm of Thalassery, a historic town in Kerala.

Recommended Time: 1 hour

With the colonial-era architecture that lines Heritage Street, the street showcases well-preserved buildings blending British, Dutch, and Portuguese influences. These reflect Thalassery’s historical significance as a colonial trading post.

Appreciate the vibrant mural art adoring some of Heritage Street’s buildings. These murals often depict scenes from Malayalam movies and Thalassery’s history, adding colour to the surroundings.

Heritage Street is a living museum offering a walk-through time with each step. Historical markers and plaques provide insights into the events and personalities shaping Thalassery’s past.

Eat Plum Cake at Mambally’s Bakery

The legacy of Plum Cake at Mambally’s Bakery in Thalassery traces back to 1883 when a significant encounter unfolded between a British planter, Murdoch Brown, and the local baker, Mambally Bapu. Brown, intrigued by the rich flavours of the plum cake he had brought from England, sought Bapu’s opinion.

Mambally Bapu, with an inventive spirit, embarked on crafting the cake using local ingredients, with one exception—French brandy. Opting for a unique twist, Bapu substituted the brandy with a concoction of locally brewed liquor derived from cashew apples and the indigenous banana variety known as Kadalipazham. The result was a delectable masterpiece that left Brown thoroughly delighted.

Dressed by the ingenuity and exceptional taste, Brown declared Bapu’s creation the best cake he had ever sampled. This moment marked the inception of a renowned tradition—the Thalassery Plum Cake at Mambally’s Bakery. The recipe, blending local flavours with international influences, has endured over the decades, making this plum cake an iconic treat that reflects the spirit of innovation and cultural fusion in Thalassery’s culinary heritage.

To this day, a visit to Mambally’s Bakery in Thalassery provides the opportunity to savour the renowned plum cake that has stood the test of time. The bakery continues to offer this iconic treat to its visitors so they can taste the rich flavours and be involved in the historical significance of the Thalassery Plum Cake.

Ride or Drive on Motorable Beach

Referred to as Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, this beach is unique because it is one of the few in the world where you can drive or ride your vehicle along the shoreline.

Recommended Time: 1 to 2 hours Best Time to Visit : Sunset Ensure that you wear a helmet while riding the bike.

Driving or riding along Muzhappilangad Beach allows you to witness the changing hues of the sea, from turquoise to deep blue. Seagulls and crows soar overhead, accompanying your drive with their graceful flights. The gentle waves create a soothing soundtrack, making the drive a pleasant and immersive experience.

Remember to follow local traffic rules, regulations, and guidelines, and ensure that driving or riding on the beach is permitted during your visit. Always prioritise safety and environmental conservation while enjoying such unique attractions.

Taste the Kerala Cuisine

Kerala’s cuisine boasts a wealth of rich and diverse flavours, ranging from aromatic spices to fresh seafood and traditional herbs. Immerse yourself in the comforting warmth of coconut-infused curries, savour the impeccable balance of sweet and savoury in traditional snacks, and delight in the varied textures and tastes that characterize Kerala’s culinary landscape.

Each dish is a gastronomic adventure, a symphony of carefully selected ingredients and expertly blended spices that display the culinary expertise of the region. From the spicy tang of traditional curries to the sweet indulgence of local treats, Kerala’s cuisine promises a journey through a palate of sensations, inviting you to appreciate the depth of flavours that define this captivating culinary tradition.

Every mouthful narrates a tale steeped in tradition, heritage, and a genuine passion for exceptional cuisine. Each dish serves as a jubilant celebration of locally sourced ingredients, culinary mastery, and the distinctive amalgamation of flavours that characterise this captivating region. Amidst this culinary journey, ensure not to overlook the opportunity to savour the renowned fish fry—a culinary gem that encapsulates the essence of Kerala’s gastronomic delights.

Watch Countless Stunning Sunsets

As the sun starts to set over the Arabian Sea, you find yourself drawn to the coastline of Kannur. The sky is painted with red, orange, pink, and purple, setting the stage for a breathtaking display of the day’s ending.

You can choose any vantage point along the shore, where the rhythmic sounds of the waves create a soothing melody. As the sun lowers, casting a warm glow across the horizon, the surroundings are coloured in a soft, golden light.

As the minutes pass, the colours intensify, creating a kaleidoscope of shades that decorate the water and the ocean. The palm trees lining the coast sway gently in the evening breeze, and the atmosphere is filled with a sense of serenity, providing the perfect backdrop for reflection and contemplation.

Residents and tourists gather along the beach, each finding a quiet space to appreciate the natural spectacle. The air is appreciated as everyone watches the sun’s descent with grace.

The sun, now a fiery orb on the horizon, gradually disappears, leaving behind a radiant afterglow. The sky transitions from warm tones to cool blues and purples as the day gives way to the tranquillity of dusk. You realize that each sunset in Kannur is a unique masterpiece, never to be replicated the same way again.

As darkness settles in, you carry the memory of countless stunning sunsets in Kannur with you. Each one is a reminder of the simple yet profound beauty that nature generously shares with those fortunate enough to witness it along the shores of this coastal gem.

Throughout our journey in Kannur, we were treated to awe-inspiring and unobstructed sunsets daily. Whether during a serene kayaking session or while enjoying activities on a private beach, each sunset was distinct and breathtaking. These daily displays of nature’s beauty provided a gratifying conclusion to our bustling days in Kannur.

How to Get to Kannur?

Kannur has its international airport located approximately 25 kilometres from the town centre. Indigo and Air India are the primary airline operators offering flights to Kannur. Upon arrival at the airport, convenient transportation options, such as taxis, are readily available. The journey from the airport to the main town typically takes about an hour, ensuring a smooth and accessible transition for travellers.

Reaching Kannur by road offers a convenient and scenic travel option. The town is well-connected by a network of highways, making road travel accessible from various nearby locations.

By Public Transport

• Government bus operator Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private bus operators, like Sugama and Golden Travel, run regular services to Kannur from neighbouring cities and towns.
• Kannur has its railway station, Kannur Railway Station, which is centrally located in the town. Major trains from cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Delhi have stops at Kannur.

Places to Stay in Kannur

Kannur offers many accommodation choices, including numerous heritage properties that encapsulate the rich cultural tapestry of the district. Throughout our journey, we had the privilege of staying at three distinct resorts and homestays, each surpassing the previous one in charm and authenticity. You can stay at:

• State Beach Resort and Spa
• Niraamaya Retreats Vaidekam
• Sea Shell Inn (Haris Beach Home)

Click here to check for accommodation on the MakeMyTrip website

The variety of heritage stays in Kannur allows tourists to immerse themselves in the cultural ambience, offering an experience that goes beyond conventional accommodation. Whether nestled within historic structures or adorned with traditional architecture, these heritage properties contribute to a unique and memorable stay, making Kannur the perfect destination for those looking for a mix of cultural immersion and peace.

Best Time to Visit Kannur

To be honest, Kannur maintains a warm climate even beyond the summer months. However, the most tolerable weather occurs between October and February when temperatures range from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. It is worth noting that the monsoon season, stretching from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, and I recommend avoiding this period for travel to Kannur.

How many days are sufficient for Kannur?

Kannur has captivating tourist spots and sightseeing wonders, presenting a wealth of attractions for its visitors. Even with a four-day stay in this enchanting destination, we realised that we had only begun to explore its vast offerings.

I wholeheartedly recommend dedicating a minimum of four days to fully immerse yourself in Kannur’s charm, allowing ample time to discover its main landmarks and notable places. This extended stay provides a more comprehensive and enriching experience, ensuring you can delve into the diverse facets of Kannur’s cultural, historical, and natural wonders.

Is Kannur Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Kannur stands out as one of the safest destinations in South India, characterized by excellent hospitality and a welcoming community known for its warmth and friendliness. We encountered no issues throughout our travels in Kannur, and a sense of security marked the overall experience.

Although my visit wasn’t solo, I can confidently assert that Kannur is a safe haven for solo female travellers. However, as with any location, it’s prudent to exercise caution, particularly during nighttime excursions. While Kannur’s inherent safety is evident, it is always wise to be mindful of general safety practices, ensuring every traveller a secure and enjoyable experience.

Closing Notes

From the captivating Theyyam performances to the serene beaches, historic forts, and the warm hospitality of the locals, the best things to do in Kannur promise a journey that transcends the ordinary. Kannur is a gem with plenty of experiences waiting to be discovered.

We had the privilege of being hosted by the Kannur City Heritage Foundation, along with their partnering homestays and resorts. A heartfelt appreciation goes to Shihad for expertly organising, hosting, and coordinating our entire trip. It is important to note that, despite being hosted, the opinions conveyed in this post are entirely my own and are presented with impartiality and honesty.

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Top Things to Do in Kannur, Kerala

Places to visit in kannur.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

61. Chala Bhagavathi Temple

62. Nanicheri - Mullakkodi Bridge

63. Sri Mavilayikkavu Temple

64. Arakkal Kettu

65. Mauvadi Vayal Bird Watching Point

66. St. Mary's Syro-Malabar Forane Church

67. Keerthi Mangalam Vasudeva Temple

68. Thana Square

69. pamburuthi island, 70. pazhassi kovilakam, 71. sri raghavapuram temple.

72. Royal Oak

73. palakkayam thattu.

74. Slow Moto Tours

75. Swasthya Ayurveda

76. Kannur Railway Station

77. Ayurveda And Panchakarma School

78. Bedhayil Leisure Club

79. Savitha Film City

80. Tyndis Travel

81. Classic Theatre

82. Aaoka Panchakarma Centre

83. little kavitha theatre, 84. anand and ambili theatre, 85. ns theatre, 86. nature spa, 87. alinkeel theatre, 88. rajadhani theatre.

89. Lords Ayurveda School And Treatment Center

90. kayakalpam spa, what travellers are saying.

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12 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Kannur

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Arakkal Museum

#1 of 12 Places to Visit in Kannur

At a distance of 3 km from Kannur Railway Station, Arakkal Museum is a museum situated in Ayyikkara locality of Kannur city in Kerala. It is one of the popular museums in Kerala and among the prime Kannur tourist places . The Arakkal Museum in Kannur is dedicated to the Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal family in Kerala, India. The museum is previously a part of the palace of the Arakkal royal family. The durbar hall section of the palace, which was once the official venue of gatherings for the kings and their nobles, has been converted into a museum by the Government of Kerala in 2005 and is managed by the Arakkal Family Trust. This museum is a true testimony to the impeccable Muslim architecture and design. The palace complex called Kettu is an interconnected long block around a large open ground used for offering prayers or namaz. Built predominantly of laterite and wood exhibiting traits of local .....

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St. Angelos Fort

#2 of 12 Places to Visit in Kannur

At a distance of 2 km from Kannur Railway Station, St. Angelos Fort is an ancient fort situated in the Kannur Cantonment area. Maintained by ASI, it is one of the historical forts in Kerala , and among the must include places in Kannur holiday packages . Also known as Kannur Fort, Fort St. Angelos was built by the first Portuguese Viceroy of India, Dom Francisco De Almeida in 1505 AD. The fort provided naval supplies for the Portuguese conquest of Goa and the Portuguese conquest of Malacca. The Dutch captured the fort from the Portuguese in 1663 AD. They modernized the fort and built the bastions Hollandia, Zeelandia, and Frieslandia that are the major features of the present structure. The Dutch sold the fort to king Ali Raja of Arakkal in 1772 AD. In 1790, the British seized it and used it as their chief military station in Malabar until 1947. St. Angelos Fort is mainly famous .....

Payyambalam Beach

#3 of 12 Places to Visit in Kannur

At a distance of 2 km from Kannur Railway Station, Payyambalam Beach is a serene beach on the Arabian Sea coast in Kannur, Kerala. It is one of the popular Kerala beaches ,and among the best places to visit in Kannur . Payyambalam Beach is a 3-4 km long stretch of golden sand frilled by coconut greenery. The unspoiled Payyambalam Beach has an incredibly peaceful and inviting aura. The approach to the beach is through a small crossover bridge that is built over a narrow canal. To the right of the bridge are the memorials of Kannur's important political personalities that had passed away over the recent decades. There is a well-maintained garden adjacent to the beach where people can spend their evening by watching the beauty of the roaring ocean. One of the prime attractions of this beach garden is the sculpture of Mother and Child by the famous sculptor, Kanayi .....

Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach

#4 of 12 Places to Visit in Kannur

At a distance of 11 km from Thalassery, and 16 km from Kannur, Muzhappilangad Beach is a drive-in beach situated at Muzhappilangad village in the Kannur district of Kerala. Along the Arabian Sea coast, it is one of the best drive-in beaches in India , and among the must-visit Kannur tourist places . Extending up to 6 km long, the Muzhappilangad Beach is the longest drive-in beach in Asia and the only drive-in beach in the entire Kerala where tourists can drive up to a length of 4 km that offers an open road with no traffic and a stunning view. It is also featured among the top 6 best beaches for driving in the world in the BBC article for Autos. Muzhappilangad is the only Asian beach featured in the list. Located between Thalassery and Kannur, the sand of the beach is hard enough which allows vehicles to be driven on it. Driving a car or a bike has to be the .....

Taliparamba Rajarajeswara Temple

#5 of 12 Places to Visit in Kannur

At a distance of 20 km from Payyanur, 23 km from Kannur, and 60 km from Bekal, Sri Rajarajeswara Temple is a Hindu temple situated at Taliparamba town in the Kannur district of Kerala. It is one of the historical temples in Kerala , and among the must-visit places during your Kannur tour . Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is regarded as one of the 108 ancient Shiva temples in Kerala built by Parashurama. According to the inscription on the structure of the temple tank, the temple and the tank were renovated in 1524 AD by the king named Sathasoma Raja who belonged to Mooshika Vamsa (Kolathiri dynasty). The Shivalingam in the sanctum is considered to be one of the Jyotirlingas and is worshipped here as Rajarajeswara, the Emperor of Emperors, Perumthrikovilappan, Perumchellurappan, or Thampuran. Taliparamba is regarded as one of the ancient Shakti Peethams as it is believed .....

Kannur Lighthouse

#6 of 12 Places to Visit in Kannur

At a distance of 2 km from Kannur Railway Station, Kannur Lighthouse is a lighthouse situated near Payyambalam Beach in Kannur town of Kerala. Adjacent to the Sea View Park and the Government Guest House, it is the fourth largest lighthouse in Kerala and one of the popular Kannur Tourist Places. Also known as Cannanore Lighthouse, the lighthouse is still active and overlooks the Arabian Sea. In 1843, the British introduced a system of hoisting a lantern with an oil wick lamp in order to warn ships. A masonry pedestal was constructed in 1903 on the rampart of Kannur fort and placed a double wick oil lamp inside the 4th order dioptric lens and lantern on this pedestal. The light was made available during fair seasons only, from September to May every year. In 1939, the light was shifted on to a 16-metre steel trestle erected on the northern bastion of the fort. In 1948, the system was replaced by a flashing light which uses Dissolved Acetylene gas as fuel. This light was functional .....

Payyanur / Valiyaparamba Backwaters

#7 of 12 Places to Visit in Kannur

At a distance of 11 km from Payyanur, 12 km from Kottappuram, 30 km from Bekal, 47 km from Kannur, and 49 km from Kasaragod, Valiyaparamba is a coastal island in the Kasaragod district of Kerala. It is one of the most picturesque destinations of Kerala backwaters , and among the prime places to visit near Kannur . The island of Valiyaparamba is a long strip of land between the Kavvayi Backwaters and the Arabian Sea. This inhabited island is approximately 16 sq. km in size. Valiyaparamba Backwaters are fed by four rivers and the entire region is famous for a cluster of picturesque little islands. Though not popular as Alappuzha Backwaters, Valiyaparamba Backwaters are the largest backwaters in North Kerala and the third-largest backwaters in Kerala. A National Waterway passes through the island. Blessed with lush green flora and picture-perfect sparkling .....

Thalassery Fort

#8 of 12 Places to Visit in Kannur

At a distance of 22 km from Kannur, Thalassery Fort is a historical fort situated at Thalassery town in Kannur district of Kerala. Maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, it is one of the historical monuments in Kerala and among the must visit places as part of Kannur Packages. Stands on a rocky cliff, right on the Thalasseri Beach, Thalassery Fort is a formidable historical monument established by the British as a testimony to the might of the imperial rulers. The East India Company authorities came to Thalassery in 1683 and opened a factory here to store spices and other items for trades. In order to safe guard their trade activities they build a fort around the factory on a small hill called Tiruvellapadkunnu in 1700 CE with the support of the Kolathiri Raja and was strengthened in 1708. The fort became a strategic center for the British military activities from 1776 AD to 1784 AD. The fort was used against the rebellion of Pazhassi Raja by Lord Wellesley. In 1781 CE, .....

Kottappuram Backwaters

#9 of 12 Places to Visit in Kannur

At a distance of 3 km from Nileswaram, 38 km from Kasaragod and 58 km from Kannur, Kottappuram is a serene backwater destination situated in Kasaragod district of Kerala. It is one of the popular Kerala backwater destinations and among the must visit places in Kerala as part of Kannur Tour. Being part of 'Valiyaparamba Backwaters', Kottappuram backwaters is a large body of scenic backwaters fed by four rivers. The River Tejaswini is one among them and a houseboat cruise through its waters with views of areca nut groves and coconut palms is a pure delight. It is different from other South Kerala backwater attractions regarding commercialization, sights, livelihood and houseboat culture. Endowed with mangroves, backwaters, wildlife, coconut groves and a flourishing village life, Kottappuram draws large numbers of visitors. A trip to Kottappuram and a houseboat journey through the backwaters will redefine the flavours of the land. There are small boats modelled on the shikaras .....

Parassinikkadavu Snake Park

#10 of 12 Places to Visit in Kannur

At a distance of 17 km from Kannur, the Parassinikkadavu Snake Park is located at Parassinikkadavu village in the Kannur district of Kerala India. It is regarded as one of the finest snake sanctuaries of Asia and among the must visit places in Kerala as part of Kannur Tour Packages. Parassinikkadavu Snake Park is the only snake park in Kerala and one of the most prominent reptile preservation centers in India. The park was established by the Visha Chikista Kendra, a medical institution that offers diagnosis and treatment for snakebites. The main motto of this park is to educate the common man about these species and create the right awareness among them. Visiting this park is an absolute treat for the wildlife enthusiasts and animal lovers. The park houses more than 100 varieties of venomous and non-venomous snakes including king cobra, spectacled cobra, Russell's viper, pythons, krait and pit viper. There are three snake pits, fifteen glass cases for snakes and two large glass .....

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

#11 of 12 Places to Visit in Kannur

At a distance of 18 km from Iritty and 58 km from Kannur, Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Valayamchal village in the Kannur district of Kerala. This is the northernmost wildlife sanctuary of Kerala and among the prime places to visit near Kannur as part of wildlife tour in India. Established in 1984, the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the northwest slopes of the Western Ghats contiguous with the forests of the Coorg district of Karnataka. It was formed by carving out areas from the Odanthode Malavaram of Thalassery special division and the Kottiyoor Reserve Forest of Wayanad Forest Division. The sanctuary covers 55 sq. km of tropical and semi-evergreen forests. The headquarters of the sanctuary is near Iritty. It is one of the best places of sightseeing in Kannur . The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is among the finest places of wildlife in Kerala . The .....

#12 of 12 Places to Visit in Kannur

At a distance of 13 km from Payyanur and 25 km from Kannur, Madayi Para or Madayipara is a flat topped hillock located in the Madayi village of Kannur district of Kerala. On the bank of Kuppam River, Madayipara is renowned as one of the most beautiful landscapes in the entire state of Kerala. Often called as the land of flowers, Madayipara is typical of the laterite foot hills of the Western Ghats. With a luxuriant variety of 300 flowering plants and more than 30 species of thick grass, Madayipara is no less than a heaven for nature lovers. This mystical land is one that changes its appearance with the seasons. The spring decorates the entire hillock in a spectacular carpet of blue, pink, yellow and white flowers throughout the terrain which is a glorious sight to behold. As the summer approaches, the hillock turns into a glamorous golden field filled with knee-high grass. The place is dotted with leaves that paint the field a raging crimson red in autumn while the monsoons decorate .....

Most Asked Questions on Kannur

Kannur has a tropical climate throughout the year. However, August to March is the best time to visit Kannur when the weather is pleasant and is comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Avoid summer months as it gets very humid.

Kannur usually requires 1-2 days to visit the most important attractions. Kannur can be mixed with near by wonderful destinations like Coorg, Mangalore, Nagarhole and Mysore by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Kannur trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Kannur Tour Packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 11950 per person for a 4D/3N trip and from INR 14200 per person for 5D/4N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important Places to visit in Kannur like Arakkal Museum, St. Angelos Fort, Payyambalam Beach, Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, Taliparamba Rajarajeswara Temple, Kannur Lighthouse, Valiyaparamba Backwaters, Kottappuram Backwaters, etc. Coorg which is around 112 km from Kannur and can be visited along with Kannur.

Shopping in Kannur is an unforgettable experience for the travelers. Some of the popular things to buy in Kannur are souvenirs, textile, handicrafts, quality handloom products, garments, spices, Tea, coffee, aroma oils, etc.

Top 3 Kannur Tour Packages

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// St. Angelo Fort // Madayipara // Parassinikkadavu Snake Park // Peralassery // Payyambalam Beach // Kannur Lighthouse // Palakkayam Thattu // Moppila Bay // St Angelo Fort // Kerala // Kannur // kannur beach // Kannur // unique beach

8 Best Places To Visit In Kannur for a Coastal Bliss

by middha on July 20, 2023

India’s western coast is home to numerous beautiful treasures that attract visitors and create an unparalleled tapestry of experiences owing to its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. We are going to talk about the gorgeous places to visit in Kannur in order to have a memorable vacation.

Kannur is one such place, offering a lovely blend of breathtaking natural beauty and rich history. One’s imagination is piqued by Kannur, blessed with gorgeous beaches and situated along the clear waters of the Arabian Sea. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway, thrilling water activities, or a glimpse into the distinctive cultural heritage of the area, Kannur provides everything you could possibly want.

The beaches of Kannur offer an idyllic environment for relaxation and rejuvenation, from the tempting golden sands to the pulsating waves. Kannur is a place which provides wonderful experiences and treasured memories thanks to its unique coastline beauty and a variety of attractions just waiting to be discovered.

Also, if you do have more time on your hand, here is a list of the best places to visit in Kerala . 

What Is The Best Time To Visit Kannur?

The winter season, which spans from December to February, is a perfect time to explore Kannur. Temperatures in Kannur range from around 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit) during this time of year, which is pleasant. Because of the relatively low humidity, sightseeing and outdoor activities are comfortable.

As this time also falls during Kannur’s busiest travel season, expect a plethora of lively celebrations, cultural activities, and crowded marketplaces. However, it’s always a good idea to research the weather and upcoming activities in the area before making travel arrangements to Kannur.

Without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the most popular and must-visit tourist places in Kannur that should be on the list of any traveller. Let’s embark on this journey of exploring the best places to visit in Kannur. 

Places to visit in Kannur are

1. st. angelo fort.

One of the best places to visit in Kannur is the St. Angelo Fort, regarded as one of Kannur’s most important historical sites.

This large, impressive fort, which was built by the first Portuguese Viceroy of India, stands proudly and looks out over the vast sea. Its towering triangular design, along with its strong laterite stone walls, conveys a feeling of grandeur and is a must-see for anybody who enjoys architecture.

Due to the sea wall that protects the Moppila Bay from the Arabian Sea, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Moppila Bay as you wander around the fort’s grounds.

If you’re interested to know more about beaches in India, here’s a list of 37 BEST BEACHES IN INDIA – THE GATEWAY TO HEAVEN

2. Moppila Bay

Located near St. Angelo’s Fort, another great place to visit in Kannur is Moppila Bay which stands as a captivating natural fishing harbour that has been revitalized to offer visitors breathtaking vistas of the crystal clear waters of the Arabian Sea.

Given that it underwent modernisation as part of the Indo-Norwegian accord, this bay is significant historically. An interesting and unforgettable experience may be had by taking a leisurely stroll around the bay, where you can see fisherman engaged in different tasks connected to their business, such as repairing nets, sorting their catches, and getting ready for their next outing.

A vantage point for admiring the mesmerising views of the sparkling seas is the wall that runs from the fort into the harbour. Take a boat trip from the bay out into the vastness of the sea for an amazing journey that will stay in your mind forever. Here, history, natural beauty, and a thriving fishing culture merge to create a unique experience.

3. Palakkayam Thattu

One of the best places to visit in Kannur, Palakkayam Thattu, is nestled next to the magnificent Western Ghats and is a wonderful location to explore. This charming hill town attracts visitors with its lush vegetation and breathtaking elevation, rising to a stunning height of almost 3350 feet above sea level.

Palakkayam Thattu, one of the best Kannur tourist places and hill stations, is a beloved getaway for passionate trekkers because of its environment of thick woods and different hillocks. Step into this tranquil neighbourhood and go on excursions you’ll never forget, taking in the unbridled splendour of nature at every turn.

4. Kannur Lighthouse

The Kannur lighthouse is unique because it was Kerala’s first lighthouse, magnificently rising to a towering height of 75 feet. This famous monument, constructed in 1903, has a significant historical and cultural background. Standing at the top, the lighthouse offers an unequalled vantage point from which one may see breathtaking vistas of the Kannur region, the enormous expanses of the Arabian Sea, and the alluring Baby Beach. 

The picturesque setting delights and enthrals onlookers, and the energising feeling of the wind stroking your face at such heights is absolutely breathtaking. In addition, visitors may take leisurely strolls in the well-kept gardens, taking in the tranquil atmosphere, and in the evenings, being treated to a spectacular water fountain show.

5. Payyambalam Beach

Renowned for its untouched beauty, Payyambalam Beach stands as a pristine gem among Kerala’s coastal treasures. Its golden sands and frothy white waves, caressed by the Arabian Sea, create a picturesque landscape that is both tranquil and captivating.

With its serene and welcoming ambiance, Payyambalam Beach serves as an idyllic destination for visitors seeking a prolonged retreat. Here, amidst the swaying palm trees and casuarina groves, one can truly unwind and rejuvenate, surrounded by varying shades of lush greenery. 

As one of Kannur’s most celebrated tourist attractions, the beach offers delightful nature walks, boating excursions, invigorating swims, and a myriad of thrilling adventure activities. Embark on a journey along the 4-kilometre stretch of this coastal paradise, where the turquoise waters of the sea perform a rhythmic dance, creating an enchanting spectacle that will leave you mesmerized.

6. Peralassery

The revered pilgrim site of Peralassery, which is home to the holy Sri Subramania Temple, is located 14 kilometres from Kannur. Lord Subramanya, the renowned son of Lord Shiva, who plays a vital role in Hindu mythology, is deeply revered in this temple.

The beautiful statue of Lord Subramanya in his serpentine form, which serves as the temple’s arresting centre of attention, is a key attraction for tourists. A stunning and gorgeous pond is another feature of the temple that draws plenty of visitors each year. This calm body of water has grown to be a well-liked destination for tourists looking for peace and spiritual comfort.

The yearly Kodiyettam festival, which acts as an exciting meeting place for both cultural aficionados and religious followers, is one of the attractions of Peralassery. All who attend will have a rich and unforgettable experience thanks to the huge celebration’s harmonic fusion of customary rites, cultural displays, and ardent devotion.

7. Parassinikkadavu Snake Park

A fascinating addition to the list of tourist attractions in Kannur is the Snake Park situated in Parassinikkadavu. This unique park is home to a diverse collection of reptiles, comprising over 150 species that encompass crocodiles, lizards, and snakes.

Furthermore, the park is adorned with endemic and migratory varieties of rare water birds. For wildlife enthusiasts and animal lovers, a visit to Snake Park offers immense satisfaction as they can witness a remarkable display of these creatures and appreciate their admirable traits.

Observing the captivating behaviour and characteristics of these animals is truly awe-inspiring and is bound to leave visitors in a state of wonderment. The Snake Park in Parassinikkadavu provides an opportunity to deepen one’s understanding of these fascinating reptiles and birds, making it an engaging and educational experience for all who venture within its premises.

8. Madayipara

The enormous 700-acre hilltop of Madayipura is one of the most famous Kannur tourist places. Every season brings new and diverse colours to the stunning laterite plateau. Enjoy the gorgeous rustic brown and orange hues by visiting the hilltop in the summer. Watch as the area becomes blue in the spring after being coated in a layer of green during a rainstorm.

The Jew Pond and the Madayi fort of the Vallabha king provide history aficionados with a wonderful treat in addition to their mesmerising views. The plateau is a draw for botany aficionados because of its diverse ecosystem, which includes unique kinds of flora and fauna and an uncommon assortment of plants that consume insects.

As we conclude our journey through the best places to see in Kannur, we are left with a sense of awe and wonder at the plethora of experiences this small city offers.  We have looked at the best tourist places in Kannur, a treasure mine of natural beauty and cultural history. Our hearts are completely captivated by Kannur’s warmth, friendliness, and alluring attractions. Let us take with us the memories of Kannur’s stunning landscapes and cultural gems as we say goodbye.

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20 Must-Visit Places in Kannur, Kerala

Kannur, a picturesque coastal town in the southern state of Kerala, India, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a unique and enriching experience. Nestled along the pristine Arabian Sea, this vibrant city is renowned for its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture.

In this article, we'll take you on a journey through 20 must-visit places in Kannur that will leave you enchanted and longing for more.

Also read: Top 10 Places to Visit in Kerala in 2023

1. Fort St. Angelo:

Fort St. Angelo, also known as Kannur Fort, is a well-preserved historical fort dating back to the 15th century. It was originally built by the Portuguese and later captured by the Dutch and the British. The fort provides a glimpse into Kannur's colonial past and offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. It is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those who appreciate stunning coastal vistas.

2. Muzhappilangad Beach:

Muzhappilangad Beach Kannur Img: Tripadvisor

Muzhappilangad Beach is Asia's longest drive-in beach, known for its golden sands and serene waters. Visitors can enjoy a unique experience of driving their vehicles along the shoreline. It's an ideal spot for relaxation, picnics, and water sports, and the beach's gentle waves make it safe for swimming.

3. St. Angelo's Fort Light House:

This historic lighthouse, located within Fort St. Angelo, provides a mesmerizing panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding area. Climbing to the top is a memorable experience, and the lighthouse offers an excellent vantage point for watching the sunset.

4. Payyambalam Beach:

Payyambalam Beach is a picturesque stretch of coastline with well-maintained gardens and sculptures. It's a peaceful spot for a leisurely stroll or a quiet evening by the sea. The beach's tranquil ambiance makes it a popular destination for families and couples.

5. Parassinikadavu Temple:

Parassinikadavu Temple is dedicated to Muthappan, a local deity, and is famous for its Theyyam performances. Theyyam is a traditional ritual art form that combines dance, music, and storytelling. Visitors can witness these vibrant and mystical performances at the temple, providing a unique cultural experience.

6. Arakkal Museum:

The Arakkal Museum is a treasure trove of history, showcasing the heritage of the Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal family in Kerala. The museum houses artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that offer insights into the royal life and history of the region.

7. Kavvayi Backwaters:

Kavvayi Backwaters Kannur Img: Seasonz India Holidays

The Kavvayi Backwaters offer a serene and immersive experience of Kerala's backwater life. A boat ride through the interconnected canals and islands lets you appreciate the region's lush greenery, traditional villages, and the tranquility of the backwaters.

8. Mridanga Saileswari Temple:

This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is renowned for its intricate wood carvings and Theyyam performances. The Theyyam rituals at this temple are a vibrant and spiritual experience, with performers in colorful costumes and intricate makeup.

9. Snake Park and Parassinikadavu:

The Snake Park at Parassinikadavu is a unique attraction for those interested in reptiles. It houses various snake species and offers informative exhibits on these creatures. Visitors can learn about snake conservation and witness live snake demonstrations.

10. Paithalmala:

Paithalmala is a hiker's paradise, with lush forests and rolling hills. The trek to the hilltop provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and a serene escape into nature. Trekkers can explore the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats along the trail.

Also read: 20 Indian Cultural Heritage Gems to Visit in 2023

11. Dharmadam Island:

Dharmadam Island Kannur Img: Kerala Tourism

Dharmadam Island is a secluded and peaceful getaway accessible via a narrow land bridge. This pristine island features serene beaches and coconut groves, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and picnics.

12. Ezhimala Beach:

Ezhimala Beach, Kannur Img: how-to-reach-kerala

Ezhimala Beach is known for its clear blue waters and pristine sands. It is also home to the Indian Naval Academy, which adds a unique charm to the area. The beach offers a serene atmosphere for relaxation and beach activities.

13. Kannur Beach:

The main beach in Kannur, known as Payyambalam Beach, is perfect for an evening by the sea. It features a well-maintained promenade, sculptures, and seaside shacks serving local cuisine. The beach is an ideal place to watch the sunset and enjoy the cool ocean breeze.

14. Kannur Lighthouse:

The Kannur Lighthouse, located on the cliff within the Kannur Fort premises, is an architectural marvel. Climbing to the top offers spectacular views of the Arabian Sea, the surrounding coastline, and the city. The lighthouse stands as a symbol of Kannur's maritime heritage.

15. Meenkunnu Beach:

Meenkunnu Beach is a pristine and less-crowded beach known for its tranquility. It's an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle, relax in a peaceful environment, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Kerala coast.

16. Tellicherry Fort:

The Tellicherry Fort, constructed by the British East India Company, is a historical gem. It reflects the colonial history of Kannur and is an essential stop for history buffs. The fort's well-preserved architecture and informative displays offer a glimpse into the past.

17. Kottiyoor Temple:

Kottiyoor Temple is a sacred pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Nestled in the midst of a lush forest, the temple is known for its annual pilgrimage known as 'Vaisakha Mahotsavam.' The temple's serene surroundings and spiritual significance make it a unique place to visit.

18. Thalassery Pier:

Thalassery Pier, also known as the Thalassery Muzhappilangad Beach Pier, is a long and picturesque structure that extends into the sea. It's a great spot for a leisurely walk, enjoying sea views, and taking in the refreshing coastal breeze.

19. Mappila Bay:

Mappila Bay Kannur Img: Tripadvisor

Mappila Bay is a serene and picturesque bay where you can take boat rides and relax by the water. It offers a chance to appreciate the beauty of the Arabian Sea and savor delicious local seafood at nearby shacks.

20. Mappila Cuisine:

Mappila Cuisine

Mappila cuisine is a highlight of Kannur's culinary scene. It's known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices, combining elements of Kerala, Arab, and Malabar culinary traditions. Don't leave Kannur without sampling local dishes like biryani, pathiri, and a variety of seafood preparations that reflect the region's diverse and delectable food culture.

Read more: Cruising Through Kerala’s Backwaters: A Traveler’s Dream

These 20 must-visit places in Kannur, Kerala, offer a diverse range of experiences, from historical exploration to natural beauty, cultural immersion, and culinary delights, ensuring an unforgettable journey for every traveler.

By Anushka Dongre

Discover the Top 20 Must-Visit Places in Chennai for 2023

Discovering the Treasures of Kannur, Kerala: A Traveler's Guide

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Top 20 Places to Visit in Kannur: Explore the Best of North Kerala

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Places to Visit > Top 20 Places to Visit in Kannur: Explore the Best of North Kerala

Kannur, also known as Cannanore, is a beautiful city located in the northern region of Kerala, India. The city is known for its pristine beaches, ancient forts, temples, and cultural heritage. Kannur is a perfect blend of nature, history, and tradition. The city offers a range of experiences that are sure to captivate and fascinate every traveler who visits here. In this article, we will explore the top 20 places to visit in Kannur that will leave you mesmerized.

Mesmerising Places to Visit in Kannur

1. payyambalam beach.

Payyambalam Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Kannur. The beach is known for its serene atmosphere, soft sand, and clear waters. The sunset view from the beach is breathtaking. Visitors can indulge in water sports, relax on the beach, or take a stroll along the shoreline.

• Location: Kannur
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: Open 24 hours
• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 8 km

2. St. Angelo Fort

St. Angelo Fort, also known as Kannur Fort, is a historical fort built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. The fort is a popular tourist attraction in Kannur and offers a glimpse into the history of the city. The fort is located on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its history.

• Entry Fee: INR 25 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 4 km

3. Muzhappilangad Beach

Muzhappilangad Beach is one of the most unique beaches in India. The beach is the longest drive-in beach in the country and offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Visitors can drive along the beach and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Arabian Sea. The beach is also a popular spot for water sports.

• Location: Thalassery, Kannur
• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 40 km

4. Parassinikkadavu Snake Park

Parassinikkadavu Snake Park is a unique tourist attraction in Kannur. The park is home to a variety of snakes and other reptiles. Visitors can learn about these fascinating creatures and also watch snake shows performed by experts.

• Entry Fee: INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children
• Timings: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 21 km

5. Arakkal Museum

Arakkal Museum is a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal family in Kerala. The museum is located in a palace that was once the residence of the Arakkal family. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the life and times of the Arakkal family.

• Timings: 9:30 AM to 4:45 PM (Closed on Mondays)
• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 3 km

6. Thalassery Fort

Thalassery Fort is a historical fort built by the British in the 18th century. The fort played a significant role in the history of Kerala and India. The fort is a popular tourist attraction and offers a glimpse into the colonial history of the region. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its history.

• Entry Fee: INR 10 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners
• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 22 km

7. Dharmadam Island

Dharmadam Island is a small, uninhabited island located near Kannur. The island is surrounded by the Arabian Sea and offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island and spend a few hours enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 26 km

8. Ezhimala Hill

Ezhimala Hill is a beautiful hill located near Kannur. The hill offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding areas. The hill is also home to a naval academy and a lighthouse. Visitors can explore the hill and enjoy the beautiful views.

• Location: Payyanur, Kannur

9. Kavvayi Backwaters

Kavvayi Backwaters is a beautiful network of lagoons and lakes located near Kannur. The backwaters offer a serene and tranquil atmosphere and are a popular spot for boat rides. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the backwaters and explore the surrounding areas.

• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 61 km

10. Meenkunnu Beach

Meenkunnu Beach is a beautiful beach located near Kannur. The beach is known for its serene atmosphere and soft sand. Visitors can relax on the beach, take a dip in the clear waters, or indulge in water sports.

• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 14 km

11. Gundert Bungalow

Gundert Bungalow is a historical bungalow located near Kannur. The bungalow was once the residence of German missionary Hermann Gundert, who is known for his contributions to Malayalam language and literature. The bungalow is now a museum and offers a glimpse into the life and times of Hermann Gundert.

• Entry Fee: INR 10 for Indians, INR 50 for foreigners
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM
• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 18 km

12. Madayipara

Madayipara is a beautiful plateau located near Kannur. The plateau is known for its natural beauty and biodiversity. The plateau is also home to several temples and other religious sites. Visitors can explore the plateau and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

• Location: Payangadi, Kannur

13. Kottiyoor Temple

Kottiyoor Temple is a popular Hindu temple located near Kannur. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its ancient architecture and spiritual significance. The temple is located amidst a dense forest and offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can explore the temple and learn about its history and culture.

• Location: Kottiyoor, Kannur
• Timings: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 95 km

14. Thodeekulam Siva Temple

Thodeekulam Siva Temple is a popular Hindu temple located near Kannur. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its ancient architecture and spiritual significance. Visitors can explore the temple and learn about its history and culture.

• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 20 km

15. Kalarivathukkal Temple

Kalarivathukkal Temple is a popular Hindu temple located near Kannur. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is known for its ancient architecture and spiritual significance. The temple is also a popular spot for traditional martial arts performances. Visitors can explore the temple and learn about its history and culture.

16. Paithalmala

Paithalmala is a beautiful hill station located near Kannur. The hill station is known for its natural beauty and biodiversity. The hill station offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere and is a popular spot for trekking and camping. Visitors can explore the hill station and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

• Location: Kudiyanmala, Kannur
• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 74 km

17. Peralassery Temple

Peralassery Temple is a popular Hindu temple located near Kannur. The temple is dedicated to Lord Subramanya and is known for its ancient architecture and spiritual significance. Visitors can explore the temple and learn about its history and culture.

18. Palakkayam Thattu

Palakkayam Thattu is a beautiful hill station located near Kannur. The hill station is known for its natural beauty and biodiversity. The hill station offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere and is a popular spot for trekking and camping. Visitors can explore the hill station and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 67 km

19. Ezhara Beach

Ezhara Beach is a beautiful beach located near Kannur. The beach is known for its serene atmosphere and soft sand. Visitors can relax on the beach, take a dip in the clear waters, or indulge in water sports.

• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 23 km

20. Odathil Mosque

Odathil Mosque is a popular mosque located near Kannur. The mosque is known for its ancient architecture and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the mosque and learn about its history and culture.

• Distance from Kannur International Airport: 16 km

Kannur is a beautiful city that offers a range of experiences to every traveler who visits here. From pristine beaches to ancient forts, from beautiful temples to hill stations, Kannur has it all. In this article, we have explored the top 20 places to visit in Kannur that will leave you mesmerized. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or spiritual seeker, Kannur has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and head to Kannur for an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What are the best places to visit in Kannur for couples? A. Some of the best places to visit in Kannur for couples are Payyambalam Beach, Muzhappilangad Beach, Dharmadam Island, and Palakkayam Thattu.

Q. What are the top 10 places to visit in Kannur? A. The top 10 places to visit in Kannur are Payyambalam Beach, St. Angelo Fort, Muzhappilangad Beach, Parassinikkadavu Snake Park, Arakkal Museum, Thalassery Fort, Dharmadam Island, Ezhimala Hill, Kavvayi Backwaters, and Meenkunnu Beach.

Q. What are the best places to visit in Kannur for a one-day trip? A. Some of the best places to visit in Kannur for a one-day trip are St. Angelo Fort, Payyambalam Beach, Arakkal Museum, and Thalassery Fort.

Q. What are the good places to visit in Kannur with family? A. Some of the good places to visit in Kannur with family are Payyambalam Beach, Parassinikkadavu Snake Park, Muzhappilangad Beach, and Kavvayi Backwaters.

Q. What are the nearby places in Kannur to visit? A. Some of the nearby places in Kannur to visit are Thalassery, Payyanur, and Kudiyanmala.

Q. What are the tourist places to visit in Kannur district? A. Some of the tourist places to visit in Kannur district are Payyambalam Beach, St. Angelo Fort, Muzhappilangad Beach, Parassinikkadavu Snake Park, Arakkal Museum, Thalassery Fort, Dharmadam Island, Ezhimala Hill, Kavvayi Backwaters, Meenkunnu Beach, Paithalmala, Peralassery Temple, and Odathil Mosque.

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inkannur.in

Kannur, also known as the Land of Looms and Lores is one of the northern districts of Kerala which is rich in culture, history and incredible natural beauty. Kannur ( fondly known as Cannanore) is located on the Malabar coast of Kerala. Kannur has been a great trading center from ancient times itself and has traded with various civilizations including Greeks, Romans and Arabs. Kannur is a part of the majestic Western Ghats which makes it a storehouse of natural treasures. 

Kannur District witnessed plenty of freedom struggles against colonial British rule. Kannur is also the birthplace of several revolutionary freedom fighters. Pazhassi Raja led a number of revolts against the British and is a prominent name in the history of Kannur. The film Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja starring Malayalam superstar Mammooty is based on the life of Pazhassi Raja. 

Kannur was a key venue of the Salt Satyagraha, a major turning point in the Indian Freedom Movement, in Malabar. Freedom fighters under the leadership of K. Kelappan started on foot from Kozhikode to the beaches of Payyannur and broke the salt laws there on April 21,1930.

History of Kannur

The earliest evidence of human history in Kannur dates back to the Neolithic age.The area of Kannur district was part of the Chera kingdom, who ruled Kerala for a long time. Kannur was the capital of Kolattiri Rajas who traded with Persia and Arabia.

Kannur District played a significant role in the Indian freedom movement. The Indian National had its Malabar District committee in 1908 at Kannur. All India Home Rule League, founded by Dr. Annie Besant had a branch operating in Thalassery during this period and V.K. Krishna Menon was an active member in it.

Popular Tourist Destinations

Kannur Fort (St. Angelo Fort )

Kannur Fort was built in 1505 by Dom Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese Viceroy of India.Kannur Fort is one of the major tourist attractions in Kannur with great historic significance. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)had excavated about 36,000 cannon balls from St Angelo’s Fort, Kannur.

Payyambalam Beach

Payyambalam beach is a great place to visit to hear the music of the Arabian Sea which calms your soul. Payyambalam beach is a preferred choice for people who are trying to relax and are found to be mesmerized by the natural scenic beauty of the place. This is the ideal place for a peaceful evening walk.

Parassinikadavu Snake Park

Parassinikadavu Snake Park is regarded as one of the best snake sanctuaries in Asia. Snake Park is highly appreciated for being one of the only reptile preservation centers in Kerala. More than 100 different species of reptiles like crocodiles, monitor lizards and snakes- both venomous and non-venomous reside in the Parassinikadavu Snake Park.

The Baby Beach, an extension of the Payyambalam beach is a small and attractive beach along the shore of the Arabian Sea. It is a rare rocky beach which captures the attention of many tourists.

Palakkayam Thattu

Palakkayam Thattu is a gem of Kannur which is packed with an exquisite range of flora and fauna.It is a popular holiday celebration site in Kannur which is a treat to the eyes. It is a well maintained tourist destination with a lot of games available for tourists to be entertained. You can reach there by car to the top or can choose to take a jeep midway.The ideal time to visit is early morning or late evening.

Muzhappilangad Beach

The Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach at Kannur is the longest drive-in beach in India. It is one the cleanest beaches and offers a great drive in experience. You can enjoy a 4km long shoreline drive with no traffic with a magnificent view. The Muzhappilangad Drive-In Beach is a great place to spend some quality time with your loved ones.

Kannur Lighthouse

Kannur Lighthouse provides a delightful view of the entire city of Kannur, the great Arabian Sea, the Baby Beach and even parts of Payyambalam Beach.

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Kannur, An intangible beauty - Explore things to do on your next trip to Kannur

Posted 25 August 2022

Kannur is a beautiful city in the Indian state of Kerala. It is known for its beaches, natural treasures, folk art, and loom industries. During the 12th century, Kannur was a significant trading centre with dynamic business connections with Arabia and Persia. Till 1887, Kannur served as the British military headquarters on India's west coast. The city was known as Cannanore during the British era. 

The Chera dynasty ruled most of the parts of Kerala in the past and Kannur was also a part of the kingdom. Additionally, Kannur is also a must-visit place for many enthralling spots of interest including Muzhuppilangadi beach and Payyambalam.

1. A perfect blend of cultural and historical tour of Kannur

Kannur is famous for its beaches, lush green forests, and temples. The place is often termed as one of the perfect places for a vacation. Also, Kannur is known for its culture and history.

Kannur has a historical significance as it was the part of Chera dynasty that ruled Kerala. Visitors can also get a glimpse of the famous Malabar culture in Kannur as it has an abundance of temples. Religious festivals and rituals are being organised at these temples on a regular basis. 

Take some time off from your busy schedule and immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage of Kannur. 

2. Tourist attractions in Kannur

• Payyambalam Beach : If you want a serene ambiance to unwind and relax, head to Payyambalam Beach. The beach is an ideal place to enjoy a peaceful environment. It is also a perfect picnic spot. 
• Angelo Fort or Kannur Fort:  The fort was built by Dom Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese Viceroy of India, in 1505. Situated just 3 km from Kannur, the fort is preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India.
• Arakkal Museum:  The museum is dedicated to the Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal family in Kerala. The museum is a division of Arakkal Palace which is managed by the Arakkal Family Trust. 
• Munderi Bird Sanctuary:  This bird sanctuary is located 8 km from Kannur. You can experience birdwatching here and spot several fascinating birds. 
• Parassinikkadavu : Parassinikkadavu is a Hindu temple dedicated to Sree Muthappan. It is located 16 km from Kannur town. It is popular for Muthappan Temple and Parassinikkadavu Snake Park. 
• Muzhappilangad drive-in Beach:  The Muzhapillangad beach is the only longest drive-in beach in India and Asia. Being a drive-in beach, it can be easily accessible by road. It is located between Kannur and Thalassery. Visitors can rest and loosen up at the benches available on the beach. It is a 4km stretch and probably one of the interesting things to do in Kannur. There are shacks available at the beach where one can enjoy Kannur’s authentic street foods. 
• Some of the water adventure and water sports activities available at the beach are parasailing, catamaran rides, paragliding, and microlight flights.

3. Kannur gastronomical affair

Kannur has always been ranked number one on the list of Kerala’s top destinations for a culinary experience. The cuisine of Kerala offers a host of both non-vegetarian and vegetarian dishes. However, the staple food of Kerala includes rice, coconut, tapioca, and spices like cloves, black pepper, cinnamon, and ginger.

Kannur, being in Kerala, is also popular for seafood like fish, mussels, prawns, lobsters, and crabs.

Some of the food items one must try in Kannur are: 

• Thalassery chicken biryani:  This biryani is one of the most loved food items in Kannur and is regarded as the king of all biryanis. Visitors in Kannur should try the Thalassery chicken biryani. 
• Unnakkaya: Unnakkaya is a snack available at almost every tea shop in Kannur. It is an authentic Malabar dessert. Mainly, the dessert is served during festivals, weddings, and other festivities. The main ingredient of this dessert is banana. 
• Kallumakkaya Nirachathu:  This dish is a delight for non-vegetarians. It is a variety of seafood with shells. The stuffed mussel dish is famous for Malabar 
• Chatti pathiri:  It is a layered pastry famous in Kannur and other regions of Kerala. The dish is similar to the Italian dish Lasagna. The main ingredients of this dish are egg, refined flour or wheat flour, oil, and water. It is not necessarily a dessert always and is available in a savoury variation also.
• Mutton Korma:  While one can relish mutton korma in other parts of the country too, the dish tastes different in Kannur. It is a delight for non-vegetarians. In Kannur, the dish has a coconut gravy base. One can have it with chapatis, appams, and rice. 

Some of the places where visitors can satisfy their taste buds with authentic Malabari cuisine in Kannur are Raandhal, MVK restaurant, Wheat House, and Hotel Odhens among others. There are also several restaurants for visitors looking for Chinese and tandoori food items like Chifonets and Cabane Bambou.

4. Festivals in Kannur

• Theyyam rituals: Theyyam rituals are a form of dance worship celebrated in Kerala and Karnataka. Through the dance form, the performers bring life to the stories of Kerala. Theyyam ritual promotes the principles of the ancient tribesthat worshipped the heroes and spirits of their ancestors.The rituals include traditions and customs that are almost 1000 yr One can witness these rituals in Kannur temples between December to April.
• Kottiyoor Vaishaka Mahotsavam:  The festival is celebrated in the hills of Kannur and has two most popular temples, Ikkara Kottiyoor and Akkara Kottiyoor. Kottiyoor Vaishaka Mahotsavam is a 28 day long festival celebrated in front of the Baveli river in Kannur. The festival is one of the famous festivals of Kerala.
• Trichambaram Temple Festival: Trichambaram Temple is a temple located in Kannur dedicated to Lord Krishna. Trichambaram temple festival is an annual festival celebrated for 15 days every year. The festival normally starts in March with hoisting a religious flag at the temple. The colourful event ends with Koodipiriyal. Between the start and end of the festival, performances like a dance with Krishna and his older brother Balrama are organisedat Pookot Nada which is around a kilometre from the Trichambaram temple.

Read more about:   Witness the popular festivals celebrated in Kannur

5. Shopping places in Kannur

Other than beaches, temples, and lush green forests, Kannur is also famous for being one of the shopping hubs for tourists. Some of the items to bring back home from Kannur are banana chips, cashew nuts, coffee, aroma oils, and tea. The city is also known for its gold shops everywhere so make sure to buy some while visiting this beautiful place.

Shopping in Kannur is as tempting as visiting its beautiful tourist places. Silk sarees and handloom products are a rage among women tourists. Also, look for local handicrafts, local spices, and earthenware products. While these items are easily available around Kannur, wooden kathakali face masks are a speciality of this city.

Some of the places where one can buy these items are Fortlight complex and Kannur City Centre. Fort Road is the busiest shopping centre in Kannur.

Tourists can also do luxury shopping at Capitol Mall, G Mall, Kannur Mall, Thana Square, and Royal Oak.

How to reach Kannur?

• By air: Kannur International Airport serves the city. Situated 25 km from the city centre, the airport is conveniently connected to major cities of the state and the country. IndiGo offers several direct and connecting flights to Kannur also from major cities of the country every day.
• By rail:  Kannur has an integrated rail system that connects the city with neighbouring cities. Kannur railway station connects Kannur to all the major destinations of India. The regular trains at the railway station are Mangalore Express and Nizamuddin Express. 
• By road:  With regular government and private buses, Kannur is well-connected to the neighbouring states. Buses are available regularly at short intervals. It is one of the cheapest modes of transportations. 

Travel tips for Kannur

• As Kannur is in South India, the climate of this city is different from North India. It is better to check out the temperatures before visiting it. 
• Kannur is a shoppers’ paradise. Keep some empty space in your luggage for bringing back some of its specialities.
• Muzhappilangad drive-in beach should be in your itinerary as the beach is the only longest drive-in beach in Asia. 
• Auto-rickshaws and buses are the common modes of transportation in Kannur. 

Climate/ Temperature in Kannur

Being a coastal city, Kannur enjoys a tropical climate. Summers are super-hot in Kannur with temperatures rising above 40°C. Summer months are ideally not the best time to visit Kannur. The days are hot and humid and you would not want to spend your day outside during the summer months.

Best time to visit Kannur

The most appropriate time to visit Kannur district in Kerala is between October and February. The winter months are ideal for planning a vacation in Kannur. Visitors and tourists mainly favour the winter months for a stay or vacation in Kannur. 

Kannur also receives heavy rainfall in the months of June, July, August, and September, and thus, tourists avoid these months. 

One needs to explore the city to witness its rich traditions and culture. Take some time off from your busy schedule and immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage of Kannur. For getting around in Kannur, locals prefer mini-buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. Rented cars are also available in Kannur if you want to get around the city in your vehicle. 

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• 20 Best Places Near Kannur That Will Leave You Amazed And Baffled On Your Vacation

23 Mar 2023

Are you looking for tourist attractions in Kannur? Here we provide a list of carefully selected tourist attractions in Kannur so that you can find the best attractions and places of interest. Easily find enough information on popular tourist attractions. Kannur is famous for its beautiful landscapes, only to discover the best sights of Kannur and plan your trip. Explore Kannur more than ever and be aware of the many hidden gems of its location. With this carefully researched list, you can learn what the most enjoyable time was. Discover the best places near Kannur for a family trip that you will never forget.

20 Places To Visit Near Kannur

Kannur is the birthplace of looms and immortal ritual folklore (team and folk music, etc.) and has always been a fascinating place. Land of looms and toys is also an attractive place in Kannur in Kerala. This historic area of ​​Kerala has many attractions, including beaches, temples, hills, and other monuments. Kunnar is one of the most beautiful places in Kerala and is worth the time you will spend here. Let’s spy on some of them: 

1. Choottad Beach – Unexplored Beauty

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It is a brilliant undeveloped beach in Pazhayangadi, 30 km from the village of Kannur. The water and trees in the lush edge marathon on one side of this location and the navy blue OMB perunba, on the other, offer unique views and experiences. Choottad Beach also has playpens and canoe facilities during the Peruvian recession. The beach stretches for a long time and extends to Petit Yang Gadi beach.

Location: Chootad Beach, Puthiyangadi Beach Road, Pullikkanam to Vagamon, KeralA. Distance from Kannur: 27 km Travel time by car: 39 minutes

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2. Arakkal Museum – Ancient Beauty

The Arakkal Museum pays homage to the only Islamic Royal Khe. The palace located in Eitkara, 3 km from the village of Kannur. The castle, with a history of 200 years, was renovated into a historical museum which was renovated in 2005. It presents the history of the Arakkaru house and the regional influence of the delegation of “Rajas” and “Vivis” d’Arakaru (lords of men and women). The museum presents many other copies of the investigation revealing details of ancient documents, maps, drawings, and family activities, as well as the relationship with spices trading in European colonies. All these old antiques make it a Kerala museum. The Alagar Family Trust manages the Arakaru Museum, and a tour of this museum is one of the best things to do in Kannur . 

Location: Arakkal Museum, Ayikkara Government, Pullikkanam to Vagamon, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 3.3 km Travel time by car: 10 minutes

3. Dharmadam Island – Charming Paradise

It is the charming paradise of Taradrami Taraseri Island. It is a beautiful secluded spot with 5 hectares of coconut palms and lush bushes. The island surrounded by three sides surrounded by the Zara river, which deleted and the fourth side surrounded by the Arabian Sea. An island is a beautiful place on the flowing beaches. At low tide, the sea recedes, and tourists can visit the island. But at high tide, the water rises sharply, so there is no danger of going alone on the island. When traveling at low tide, please consult your local guide. The green island is uninhabited, but some wells represent human existence. The fantastic thing about the island is that the water is not salty, and makes for a perfect one day trip from Kannur . 

Location: Dharmadam Island, Kerala to Vagamon, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 18 km Travel time by car: 29 minutes

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4. St. Angelo Fort – Beautiful Landscapes

Angelo Fort located approximately three kilometres west of the historic center of Cana. The historical record shows that the Netherlands occupied the fort in Portugal in 1663 and sold it to Arina on Kannur. From the fort, you can enjoy the magnificent landscapes of Mapira Bay and Daruma Domu Island. There is also a fascinating landscape of natural fish tanks and barriers that protrude from the fortress that blocks the rough seas and the inland seas.

Location: St. Angelo Fort, Near Cannanore Cantonment, Pullikkanam to Vagamon, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 3.42 km Travel time by car: 10 minutes

5. Payyambalam Beach – Exquisite Beauty

Payyambalam Beach is just 2 km from the town of Kannur, with a large golden sandy beach and a garden next door. It is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists. The beach is long, comprehensive, and reaches 4 km. Payyambalam Beach offers water skiing, parasailing, and boat trips by Kerala Tourism. The beach gardens on the cliffs also form a natural border on the beachside.

Location: Seaside home stay, Payyambalam Beach, to Vagamon, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 3 km Travel time by car: 10 minutes

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6. Meenkunnu Beach – Away From The Crowd

Meenkunnu Beach surfs behind large dense coconut palms on this beautiful golden sandy beach. About 10 kilometers from the city of Kannur, located along the coast of the same Payyambalam beach. Meenkunnu means “mountain of fish” and refers to the long fishing tradition of seaside villages. There is a cliff on this beach, and it’s a good point. For those who feel a little crowded at Payyambalam Beach, this beach is the best place to play.

Location: Meenkunnu Beach, Azhikode South, Kerala to Vagamon, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 16 km Travel time by car: 30 minutes

7. Muzhappilangad Beach – Drive-in Beach

Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach is the only entry beach in Kerala, and it has the longest entry beach in India. You can drive along the 4km beach without worrying about beaching on the beach. Another exciting element of this coastline is the shape of the black rock. The foundation is also home to delicious seafood mussels. The water around the small stones had gently splashed with temptation. This beach is also a pleasure for swimming! The inexperienced beach of Pirangut attracts bird watchers far away for hundreds of birds congregating here, whatever the season.

Location: Muzhappilangad Drive in Beach, Muzhappilan, Pullikkanam to Vagamon, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 15 km Travel time by car: 24 minutes

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8. Parassinikkadavu Snake Park – Learn About Snakes

Parassinikkadavu Snake Park is one of the main tourist attractions in Kannur. Snake Farm created to protect the Kerala snake. Cobra There are many poisonous snakes, including a variety of venomous and deep-sea snakes, including King Cobra, Russell Viper, Gurascoy, and Python. Experienced staff discuss and share snakes in the park, educate and raise awareness to dispel the fear of these reptiles.

Location: Parassinikkadavu Snake Park, Parassinikkadavu, Pullikkanam to Vagamon, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 16 km Travel time by car: 21 minutes

9. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary – Into The Wild

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of ​​(55) square kilometers, located on the western slopes of the Western Ghats. Compared to the other famous flora and fauna of Kerala, the Ararimu reserve has many mountains, ranging from 50 to 1145 meters. Trekking in this mountain due to its high quality requires durability. The Ararimu sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including wildlife, jungle cats, bison, elephants, wild boars, leopards, and a diverse list. The best time to visit Ararimu is from June to October.

Location: Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, Kannur, Kerala to Vagamon, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 61 km Travel time by car: 1.5 hours

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10. Thalassery Fort – Marvellous Architecture

The memorial is located on a low tree-lined mountain with the protection of mineral water, which extends directly towards the sea. The building of the Terry Cherry fortress has a massive wall, a complex but beautifully carved door, a tunnel of secrets on the sea, ​​ ​​an indestructible fortress, and a magnificent building of Kannur.

Location: Thalassery Fort, Thalassery New Bus Stand to Vagamon, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 22 km Travel time by car: 31 minutes

11. Kannur Lighthouse – Lighting The Way

Kannur lighthouse is the only lighthouse in Kannur and is the very first lighthouse in Kerala. The lighthouse was built in the early months of 1903 and has height of 75 feet. The lighthouse has been functioning for over a century and has withstand the attacks of the Arabian Sea. This cylindrical concrete tower is one of the places near Kannur that should be visited. To alert the seamen of the land, the light in the balcony of the lighthouses is turned during the onset of evening. Visit this place and fall in love with its mesmerising backdrop and impeccable view.

Location: Burnacherry, Kannur, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 3 kms Travel time by car: 10 mins

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12. Baby Beach – Panoramic Views

As the name suggests, Baby Beach in Kannur is a small but quite attractive beach along the shore of the Arabian Sea. Don’t let the name or the size of the beach deter you from visiting this place. It is one of the places near Kannur that famous as a picnic spot amongst the locals and attracts large number of tourists with its panoramic view of the azure Arabian Sea. The Payamballam Beach extends further and forms the Baby Beach. The beach is a rocky beach where people can sit on the huge rocks and relax while staring onto the sea water.

Location: Cantonment Area, Kannur Distance from Kannur: 3 kms Travel time by car: 10 mins

13. Palakkayam Thattu – Majestic Mountains

Located at an elevation of 3500 feet and tucked between the greenery of Western Ghats is the Palakkayam Thattu, one of the places near Kannur that is worth visiting. It is a beautiful hill station in Kerala which is blessed with greenery, tall trees, majestic mountains, and views that are jaw dropping. Thanks to its altitude, the hill station witnesses low hanging clouds making the entire environment here misty and fresh. It is one of the most popular attraction amongst trekkers.

Location: Karuvanchal – Vellad, Chadikundu-Mavumchal, Palakkayam, Thattu, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 48 kms Travel time by car: 1 hour 20 mins

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14. Madayipara – Gorgeous Landscapes

Madayipara, situated on a hill near Pazhayangadi, is famous as one of the most gorgeous landscapes in Kerala. The place is regarded as ‘the land of flowers’ and is more often than not compared with the Tulip Gardens of Amsterdam. It is also famous as you can witness the change in appearance with every season. From a hill of gorgeous colors due to flora to an azure of golden field due to long grass; this places is beautiful no matter what the season. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Kannur and it attracts a large number of tourists throughout the year.

Location: Pazhayangadi, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 24 kms Travel time by car: 30 mins

15. Ezhimala – Pristine Surroundings

Surrounded by a pristine beach, Ezhimala is a hill that elevates to the heights of 286-meters. Ezhimala is famous for two things; carved stone structures, and herbs that are believed to be medicinal in nature. The word Ezhimala is derived from the words ‘ezhu’ and ‘mala’ that literally translates to seven peaks. This hill station is one of the places to visit near Kannur which is popular for its rich history as well. It is believed that this peak was dropped by Lord Hanuman while he was carrying Sanjeevani herb.

Location: Payyanur, Kannur, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 34 kms Travel time by car: 55 mins

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16. Taliparamba – Rustic Charm

Taliparamba is one of the cities in Kerala that is located at a distance of 25 kms from Kannur and is quite famous as a tourist destination. The beauty of the place is enhanced by the Valapattanam River and Kuppam River flowing through it. It is one of the many beautiful places to visit near Kannur and its beauty is exemplified by the lush green fields and ancient-styled houses. Together they give this place a rustic charm which should not be missed.

Location: Kannur, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 21 kms Travel time by car: 27 mins

17. Paithalmala – Breathtaking Beauty

Tucked in the forests of Kodagu in Kannur district is a small hill station known as Paithalmala. It is one of the most beautiful tourist places near Kannur, in the Western Ghats, housing beautiful peaks and mesemrizing views. Paithalmala is one of the tallest peak in Kannur standing tall at an elevation of of 4500 ft. It is a popular place for trekking and quite famous amongst nature and adventure lovers. With captivating beauty, thrilling trekking trails and abundance of lush greenery it is one of the best destinations to visit.

Location: Kudiyanmala, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 61 kms Travel time by car: 1 hour 40 mins

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18. Peralassery – Awe-inspiring Location

Peralassery is a town that is located at a distance of 15 kms from Kannur and is famous for its Peralassery Subrahmanya Temple. It is a popular belief here that during their journey to free Goddess Sita from Lanka, Lord Ram and Lord Laxman stopped at this temple and they left a bangle here. It is one of the tourist places near Kannur that is known for its religious significance and spirituality.

Location: Kunnar, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 14 kms Travel time by car: 22 mins

19. Theyyam – Indulge In Festivities

Theyyam is one of the most popular tourist places near Kannur, and is quite popular due to its Theyyam festival. Drawing the attention of thousands of people every year from across the country, this festival is renowned as the most remarkable and riveting art form of Malabar, the northern part of Kerala. This joyous celebration includes performances of over four hundred different traditional folk dances and is celebrated to appease the many local deities, gods, goddesses and heroes of the gripping ancient legends. Performers are dressed in attractive traditional costumes, captivating headgear and alluring ornaments with colourful face paints and creative face masks on.

Location: Madayi Para, Pazhayangadi, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 23 kms Travel time by car: 28 mins

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20. Ezhara Beach – Exuberant Beach

The coastal border of Kannur is host to many of the most beautiful and spectacular beaches of Kerala, one of which is the Ezhara Beach. This palm-fringed beach is actually a rock-strewn one with crimson cliffs and giant rocks lining up the coastline in the most attractive and scenic way possible. The Ezhara Beach is sure to charm you with the panoramic view of the azure waters of the Arabian Sea and its foamy white waves crashing against the rocks.

Location: Kannur, Kerala Distance from Kannur: 12 kms Travel time by car: 20 mins

Discover other destinations in Kannur and experience a special holiday. You can use the detailed information on Kannur tourist sites to decide where to visit Kerala quickly. For fun and adventure, you can also browse the option of Kannur attractions. If you want to enjoy a place of entertainment or cherish the beauty of historic buildings, museums and old buildings, Kannur is the right choice. You can also learn about the location of Kannur, where you can have the best vacation in its natural environment.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places Near Kannur

What are the best places to visit near Kannur?

But it is most popular with the Kannuru family. Recently we have seen Kananaru tourist attractions such as Shilla Arm, Mana Swami temple, Arakkal museum, Pentatavici, and Parasnikikidabu. Kannar can be visited in summer monsoon or winter.

Name the best tourist places near Kannur?

Kannur, known as Cannanore, is a beautiful city in northern Kerala in India. He is famous for his communist politics and his temple fairs. Kannur is the administrative seat of the district of Kannur. It is called the loom and the legendary earth.

What places can one visit around Kannur?

Palakkayam Thattu is approximately 56 km (34.8 miles) from Kannur. The nearest villages are Naduvir and Purikorunba. Get to the top of Palakkayam Thattu can climb the hill or hire a taxi jeep.

What is the best time to visit Kannur?

The best season to visit Kannur is the winter. You can choose to visit the place in the months of July, August, September, October, November, January, February and March.

Is Kannur a good place for a vacation?

Yes, Kannur offers serene beauty and beautiful views for travelers. There are also a lot of beautiful attractions for travelers to visit on their vacation.

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• #Luxury travel
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Top 10 places for a day trip from Moscow

• #Russian History
• #Special Interest
• #Suburbs of Moscow

Moscow offers tourists many great sights to see, but if you ask locals, they will tell you that Moscow is not all there is to Russia, so it’s worth getting away sometimes. Without exploring further, you miss something of the Russian unique character. If you wonder what to visit near Moscow, we recommend you 10 places where a tourist can go for a refreshing recreation, new impressions, and acquaintance with Russian history and culture.

01 Sergiyev Posad

Sergiyev Posad is one of the most beautiful towns located around Moscow. It’s not only famous for its monastery, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, but also for the fact that it’s the only town in the Moscow Region that is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities. Its cities and towns influenced the formation of the Russian Orthodox Church. But the main thing which one should visit Sergiyev Posad is the Lavra for sure. You may spend there all day, walking around and enjoying the sense of its power and strength. You absolutely have to buy some honey cakes as souvenirs for friends and feed Lavra’s pigeons when entering the monastery. Besides, you may visit Sergiyev Posad State History and Art Museum-Reserve, which has quite an impressive collection, take a look at the displays in the National Museum of Toys, and taste truly Russian food in local cafes and restaurants.

You can reach Sergiyev Posad by suburban electric train, by bus, or by car. The electric train departs from the Yaroslavsky rain terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts for an hour and a half. You may take a bus near the ‘VDNKh’ metro station, and you’ll be in Sergiyev Posad in an hour and a half at least and in two hours at most. Your car will take you there in an hour and a half at most, too. You should drive the Yaroslavskoye highway. 

If you want to look at a city that combines hi-tech and historical past, you should absolutely visit Kolomna. It is one of the most famous ancient cities in Russia, a beautiful port on the Oka River. Kolomna has its own Kremlin, which is made of red brick, like the Moscow Kremlin. Inside it, you may find many monasteries and churches, including the one in which Dmitry of the Don, Prince of Moscow, and Grand Prince of Vladimir, had his wedding to the Grand Duchess of Muscovy Eudoxia of Moscow. There is still a reserved residential area which is called Posad, right in the Kremlin territory. The buildings date back to merchants’ times. There are some interesting churches, too. In 2006, the Kolomna Speed Skating Center, known as the Kometa Ice Rink, was opened. Its futuristic look contrast the picturesque views of the ancient Kolomna Kremlin and its beautiful churches.

The best way to reach Kolomna is an electric train that departs from the Kazansky rail terminal. The trip lasts for two and a half, or one hour and forty minutes by the Ryazansky express. You can also choose a bus from the Vykhino metro station (1.4 to 4 hrs due to traffic jams) or a car.

03 Shakhmatovo

Shakhmatovo was a manor of the well-known Russian lyrical poet Alexander Blok. His grandfather Andrey Nikolaevich Beketov bought it, and young Blok used to spend it there every summer. Later, he moved there with his wife Lyubov Mendeleeva, who was the daughter of the famous chemist Dmitri Mendeleev. Blok’s grandfather decided to buy Shakhmatovo because of its picturesque views. They are really very nice, and the better time to visit this place is spring and summer. According to his own project, Blok’s mansion is a wooden house built by the poet but burnt by peasants in 1921. It was rebuilt in 2001, and since that time, it often holds big events and excursions. There is also a stable in Shakhmatovo territory, and everyone interested may ride a horse, or rent a bicycle in the summertime, or ski in wintertime.

Shakhmatovo can be reached by car because other options combine train departs from the Leningradsky rail terminal, then changes to bus till the Tarakanovo manor, then goes by foot, or bus from the Vodny stadion metro station, and then also by foot. Travel time is 1.4 hrs.

04 Zakharovo

It is a manor located in the Odintsovo District of the Moscow Region, where everybody interested may learn more about the greatest Russian poet Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin. In 1804, Zakharova was bought by his grandmother Mariya Alexeevna Gannibal, and young Pushkin was brought here every summer from 1805 through to 1810. He recalled Zakharovo in his poems as well. Now, the house which Pushkin visited as a child doesn’t exist anymore, but it was rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century on the former basis. Now it is a quiet and nice place with a museum dedicated to the famous poet's childhood, where one may spend a day enjoying the spirit of the time when young Pushkin ran across manor’s paths. From that time, linden park, approach alleys, and pond were saved. Not very far away from Zakharovo, another place connected to Pushkin’s name is located. It’s called Bolshiye Vyazyomy, and there the young Pushkin’s brother Nikolenka was buried after his death at the age of six.

The best way to go there is by train, which departs from the Belorussky rail terminal and goes to Zvenigorod. You should leave at the Zakharovo station. Travel time is an hour and a half.

05 Borodino

Borodino is truly a sacred place for all those who honor the great Russian past. The Borodino Battlefield held the most important fighting during the Patriotic War of 1812. This place was made a museum area in 1839, just after 27 years after the battle. More than two thousand memorable things are stored in the museum, including some monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to the 19th and 20th centuries, and fortification facilities. Besides, there is also an exhibition dedicated to the famous novel ‘War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, who visited Borodino in person and described this battle in his book. Every year, reconstruction events occur in Borodino, which is considered the best for visiting. But if you want to feel the spirit of the battle past, it’s better to visit it in more quiet time.

To go there, you should take a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, leave in Mozhaysk, and then change to the bus. The whole travel time is about 2 hrs.

06 Melikhovo

Melikhovo is considered one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, one of the brightest Russian writers and playwrights. Chekhov had been living in Melikhovo from March 1892 until August 1899 with his parents and close relatives. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “Uncle Vanya” and “The Seagull.” He sold this manor before going to the Crimea, and it became vague after the revolution. But in 1939, it was decided to establish a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew initiated the process, and the museum opened its doors in 1941. Now Melikhovo shows the path of Chekhov not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. Some paintings of famous artists such as Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends, are being stored. It’s a nice place to visit to learn more about Chekov’s life and work.

The best way to reach Melikhovo is by bus, which departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station, and goes to Protvino, Obolensk, or Serpukhov, or by the direct 365 bus. Also, you may choose an electric train from the Kursky rail terminal. Travel time is 1,5 hrs.

07 Abramtsevo

This is another manor connected to the lives of important Russian people — not only writers but also artists. Abramtsevo, located close to Sergiev Posad, was a property of Sergey Aksakov, a writer and a Slavophiles, and later of Savva Mamontov, a well-known patron of the arts. Abramtsevo used to be visited by writers Ivan Turgenev and Nikolay Gogol, poet Fyodor Tyutchev, and such artists as Isaac Levitan, Vasily Polenov, and Mikhail Vrubel, and by the great Russian singer Fyodor Shalyapin as well. The exhibition in the museum is dedicated to famous Abramtsevo owners and guests. It was made a museum in 1917, and its first curator was Alexandra Mamontova, Savva Mamontov’s daughter. The main sightseeing view is a wooden building made in the 18th century and saved in Savva Mamontov's form in the 19th century. There are also some bright buildings such as hut pavilion or hut bath-house. You have to remember that the main manor house may be visited only with an excursion group on the weekend.

Electric train to Abramtsevo departs from the Yaroslavsky rail terminal and goes to Sergiyev Posad or Aleksandrov. You may reach Abramtsevo by bus as well. Travel time is an hour and a half.

08 Yasnaya Polyana

Yasnaya Polyana is known as a place of residence of the famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. He was born there, wrote his novels ‘War and Peace’ and ‘Anna Karenina,’ died and is buried. He’d been living in this manor for fifty years. Yasnaya Polyana is located in the Tula Region, 200 km from Moscow to the south. This manor consists of many interesting and significant objects. For example, the interior of the main house where Tolstoy lived is being kept like it was in 1910 — it was the last year for the writer. All things in the house are considered to be personal belongings of Tolstoy and his family. Besides the main house, the Yasnaya Polyana ensemble includes the so-called Volkonsky house — the house of Tolstoy’s grandfather, the Kuzminskiye wing, which is a part of the oldest house where Tolstoy was born, now non-existent, the birch alley made by Sofya Andreevna, Leo Tolstoy’s wife, stable, ponds, and favorite Tolstoy’s bench. Leo Tolstoy’s tomb is located close to the ravine's edge — it’s where he wanted to be buried.

The whole travel time to Yasnaya Polyana is about 4 hrs as long as it’s located near Tula. It can be reached by train, or by car. First, you should go to Tula by train from the Kursky rail terminal or by bus from the Tsaritsyno, Domodedovskaya, Prazhskaya, or Ulitsa Akademika Yangelya metro stations, and then change to bus, or by trolley bus for Yasnaya Polyana.

09 Polotnyany Zavod

This place which title can be translated into Russian as ‘linen factory,’ is known for its connection to the Goncharov family, from which Natalia Goncharova, Alexander Pushkin’s wife, originated. The real linen factory was built on the bank of the Sukhodrev River in the Kaluga Region in 1718 by Peter the Great order. Goncharov, Natalia’s great grandfather, was one of the companions who participated in the factory’s development. Every companion built his own manor close to the factory’s building, and even for those times, it was quite an uncommon situation. Polotnyany Zavod was visited by the empress Catherine the Great, the Field Marshal Mikhail Kutuzov, and Nikolay Vasilievich Gogol. In 1999, when everybody celebrated the bicentennial of Alexander Pushkin, Polotnyany Zavod was made a museum, and now it welcomes many guests who come to see dramatized excursions and to learn more about Pushkin times. The poet himself visited this place two times, in 1830 and 1834. Polotnyany Zavod has the most picturesque panoramic view in the Kaluga Region.

To go to Polotnyany Zavod, you should take a bus from the bus station near the Tyoply Stan metro station, and go to Kondorovo. It takes a little more than three hours.

Tarus is just another little town in Kaluga Region, which is considered to be typical Russian. It’s located on the left bank of the Oka River and has really magnificent views. It feels like time stands still there. Tarusa managed to preserve the best from the past, and even now, it consists mostly of one-storeyed houses made of wood or stone. They say it’s because Tarusa residents declined railroad construction. This town became popular among Russian intellectuals at the beginning of the 20th century when famous artist Vasily Polenov discovered it and told about Tarusa to anyone in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Tarusa is known to be a hometown for Russian writer Marina Tsvetaeva, whose family spent summertime there. Tsvetaeva museum is a museum every guest of Tarusa should visit for sure. Besides, Konstantin Paustovsky, another famous Russian writer, lived there till his death and was buried in Tarusa. The absolutely must-do in Tarusa is to walk along the embankment of the Oka River.

The best way to reach Tarusa is by direct bus which departs from the bus station near the ‘Tyoply Stan’ metro station. Travel time is about two hours.

• Baikal Lake read
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• 1. Sergiyev Posad
• 3. Shakhmatovo
• 4. Zakharovo
• 5. Borodino
• 6. Melikhovo
• 7. Abramtsevo
• 8. Yasnaya Polyana
• 9. Polotnyany Zavod

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The best things to do and places to visit in Moscow, Russia

Updated On 14th October, 2021

While Moscow isn’t always at the top of everyone’s Europe bucket list , it’s certainly one of the best places to visit in Europe if you’re looking for a more alternative adventure! In this blog post I plan on sharing some of the free things to do in Moscow, as well as the best places to visit in Moscow, so that you can enjoy some of the best things to do in Russia! 

Moscow, the capital of Russia, sits in the European part of the country. It’s an incredibly beautiful city, which I personally found to be more beautiful than Saint Petersburg (which is often people’s preference). The capital is certainly a lot busier, and less laid back than Saint Petersburg , but it’s a much more colourful and vibrant city, full of stunning and unique architecture.

Visiting famous landmarks such as The Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral, enjoying some of the green space in Gorky Park, watching a ballet in the Bolshoi Theatre… these are just a few reasons that you should visit Moscow! On top of that, because of visa restrictions (we’ll get onto that later), it’s also one of the most unique destinations in Europe. 

There is a common misconception that Moscow is a dangerous city, but now that I’ve visited, I don’t believe this to be true. I would say the same rules apply here as to other large cities: avoid walking in dark areas alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings on public transport, and be streetwise. There’s no reason to avoid visiting this energetic city and miss out on these amazing things to do in Moscow! 

It would take months if you wanted to truly explore Moscow because it’s a huge city, but I’m going to share some of my favourite things to do in Moscow and places to visit in Moscow so that you can prepare for your upcoming adventure! Even if you’re only there for a few days, you should be able to fit in these highlights from my trip. 

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Where is Moscow?

If you’re wondering ‘Where is Moscow, Russia?’ then you’ve come to the right place! Moscow in in west Russia, the European part, and it’s the capital city. 

How do you get to Moscow?

Getting a visa for moscow:.

To get into Russia, you need to get a visa. The processing time is approximately 20 days, and you’ll need to have your fingerprints taken at a visa centre in London , Edinburgh or Manchester. You can find out more about getting a visa for Russia here.  

Getting to Moscow:

Once you’ve got your visa, the easiest way to get to Moscow from the UK is by flying. Direct flights between London and Moscow take just under four hours, and with an airport layover you’re looking at a 6-7 hour trip. You can also fly in from many other major European and international cities. 

Top tip: Check out flights to and from Copenhagen on  Skyscanner here.

Check out how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here.

16 best places to visit in Moscow...

1. st basil’s cathedral.

The most iconic building in Russia and one of the most iconic buildings in the world. St Basil’s Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Moscow, if not the best! 

St Basil’s is situated on Red Square, where you’ll also find many other popular places to visit in Moscow. In my opinion this still stands out against them all. There’s something about the multi coloured domes against the Moscow skyline that I found quite spectacular. 

Although I’d already been in Russia for several days, it wasn’t until I was at this amazing piece of architecture that I really felt I was in Russia.

The cathedral was built by order of Ivan the Terrible, and apparently after the architect completed it, Ivan blinded him so that he could never build anything more beautiful. Whether or not this story is true, it certainly adds a bittersweet feeling as you stand admiring the beauty of St Basil’s Cathedral.

Inside is a museum displaying many historic items once used at the cathedral, which costs 700 rubles to enter. In my opinion it’s worth the entry fee, as simply seeing the ornate interior walls is a spectacle in itself.

2. The Kremlin

This historic fortress that sits on Red Square is probably the largest landmark and one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. It’s the official residence of the President, although he doesn’t actually live there. It’s been rebuilt many times since it was first constructed in 1147 out of wood, before Ivan III the Great ordered it to be made from stone, which is the Kremlin you’ll recognise today. 

This place is huge, and there’s quite a lot to see. The first problem I had was finding where the entrance was. Even though I had a pre-booked ticket, I was then told I still had to visit the ticket office to exchange it for another ticket. I also needed my passport, so make sure you have yours if you plan to visit the Kremlin. After a lengthy queue I finally had a ticket I could use to enter the Kremlin, and had to go through security. The security here is thorough, so make sure you don’t take too much in with you. I had my pockets full, and it was a nightmare emptying them and explaining each item, before I was finally allowed in. Once inside you can pay for extra tickets to visit the various museums, however there’s also quite a lot to see simply on the grounds if you don’t want to spend too much. 

See more tips for travelling on a budget here. 

There’s so much to see here, including The Assumption Cathedral, Ivan the Great Bell Tower Complex, the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Armoury Chamber and Diamond Fund. There is also the Tsar Cannon (a huge artillery cannon), and the Tsar Bell. The Tsar Bell is the largest bell in the world. An incident with a fire and water being poured over the bell caused it to crack and for a slab to break off from it, which can now be seen propped up next to it.

As you walk around the grounds you’ll hear the sound of whistles. The guards patrolling the area will blow a whistle at anyone walking where they shouldn’t. Even if it’s just on the grass, or towards more restricted areas. This can sometimes be funny to watch, as often the tourists will be in a world of their own whilst a guard is blowing a whistle at them. Sometimes a guard will be stood face to face with a tourist angrily blowing their whistle before the tourist realises they need to get back onto the main path.

This is perhaps one of the more unusual places to visit in Moscow! Gum is a huge department store situated on Red Square. It’s an interesting department store to walk around, with several levels, although the shops inside are certainly quite pricey. It’s a beautiful building when it’s lit up at night, and it seems to fit in nicely amongst the other famous sights on Red Square. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything here, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to take a quick look inside, although bear in mind there are usually security checks before entering.

4. State Historical Museum

The large crimson building on Red Square is now the State Historical Museum. It was originally the first pharmacy in Russia, and later a University before finally becoming the museum it is today.

Unfortunately I didn’t go inside as my time was limited and there was so much else I wanted to see, but if you have the time I think it would be one of the best things to do in Moscow. There are items dating back to the 6th century, and maybe even further. There’s also a library inside storing many ancient manuscripts and the largest coin collection in Russia. 

5. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi means big in Russian, so it roughly translates to large theatre. The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the foremost ballet companies in the world. The exterior of the building is an impressive sight, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow, and it’s certainly worth admiring from the outside. There are guided tours of the interior, but if you really want to experience the theatre, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to watch a ballet here.

I was torn between booking a seat, but the ballets were very expensive. I’d have liked to have seen “Swan Lake”, (as at least I may have recognised some of the music). Unfortunately there were no performances on the days I was in Moscow, so I decided to pass. But if I return to Russia, then watching a ballet will be on my list of things to do.

6. Sparrow Hills

If you want a good view of the city, then Sparrow Hills is one of the best places to visit in Moscow. It’s a bit of a trek outside of the centre, but if you have the time then it offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. There’s a viewing platform here which gives you fantastic panoramic views of Moscow.

Nearby you’ll see the magnificent Moscow State University building, which is one of the seven sisters of Moscow.

7. Seven Sisters

Whilst in Moscow, you’ll no doubt notice these magnificent soviet skyscrapers dotted around the city. At the time of construction they were the tallest buildings in Europe, Moscow State University being so until 1997. There are, as the name suggests, seven in total, which are: Hotel Ukraina, Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Apartments, the Kudrinskaya Square Building, the Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya Hotel, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Moscow State University, and the Red Gates Administrative Building.

If you visit Sparrow Hills, then you’ll come across Moscow State University, but I’m certain as you explore the city, you’ll see more of these giants against the Moscow skyline. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to see if you can locate all seven as you wander round the city! 

8. Nikolskaya Street

The start of this street is found by Red Square. It’s one of the most prominent pedestrianised streets in Moscow, filled with shops, restaurants and bars, so one of the best places to visit in Moscow if you’re looking for a bite to eat or some souvenirs!

What makes this street extra special are the thousands of bright lights in the sky above. After dark it looks simply magical with the many colourful lights overhead as you walk beneath them. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to visit Nikolskaya Street after dark and see them for yourself. It almost feels like Christmas in London!

There is another street nearby which also features similar lights, “Kuznetskiy Most”, which is also quite beautiful, but I thought “Nikolskaya Street” was ever slightly more impressive.

9. Izmailovo Kremlin and Izmaylovskiy Bazar

Did you know that The Kremlin in Red Square is not the only Kremlin in Moscow? Kremlin actually means a type of fortress, so there are many in Russia.

The Izmailovo Kremlin is a fairly new addition to the city, having been built in 2007 as a cultural centre. With its multitude of colours and historic style, it has a real fairytale feel to it. There are several small museums here for you to explore, devoted to subjects such as Russian folk art, vodka and bread (yes, bread). Visiting these is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Moscow! 

It’s a little way out of the centre, but it’s an interesting place to visit in Moscow to see something a little bit different, and it won’t be as overcrowded with tourists. 

Next to the Izmailovo Kremlin is the best market in Moscow for souvenirs. You’ll find good and poor quality items, but you’ll certainly pick up a bargain if you take your time and haggle for a good price. Many of the items here you’ll get for half the price you would in souvenir shops in the city centre. It’s here that I picked up several Matryoshka dolls for a very good price. I think I’d have paid more than double, or possibly even triple if I’d have bought them elsewhere.

10. Izmailovsky Park

Not too far from Izmailovo Kremlin you’ll find this huge park, one of the prettiest places to visit in Moscow. It’s easy to get lost here, so try to make sure you keep track of where you entered if you plan to go back the same way. There’s a lot to see in this park, a round pond, ferris wheel, playgrounds and sports grounds, shooting galleries, cinemas and a skate park.

There are often festivals, concerts and exhibitions at the park, on top of firework displays and dance parties.

The main reason I chose to visit the park was to find the painted trees. A local artist “Yevgenia Khlynina” has been painting on trees in this park, and one of the best things to do in Moscow is to explore the park looking for them. One of the most famous pieces of hers is the “Hedgehog in the Fog” from a famous soviet cartoon.

11. Gorky Park

The most famous park in Moscow is named after the writer “Maxim Gorky”. Although it’s likely you’ve heard it mentioned in the song “Wind of Change” by “The Scorpions”. 

There’s lots to do and see in the park with sports facilities and exhibitions. During the summer months this is one of the best places to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Moscow; there are often open air concerts and an open air cinema. There are many statues and sculptures in the park, including a small sculpture park area which features many interesting pieces.

One piece of advice: don’t visit Gorky Park or any other parks on 2nd August if you’re in Russia. 2nd August is Paratrooper day, which usually encourages a lot of drinking in the park, which is not always very welcoming.

12. Arbat Street

One of the oldest and busiest streets in Moscow, and the most famous pedestrian street in the city. Arbat is one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. There are several shops including many dedicated to souvenirs, but although these will have a good range of goods, they will be quite expensive . You may see street performers and buskers, and there are often poets reciting famous works, if not their own works.

It’s within walking distance from the Kremlin, which should only take around 10 minutes.

There are actually two streets with this name, Old Arbat Street and New Arbat Street. Old Arbat Street is where you’ll find the pedestrianised area. New Arbat Street is a separate street which runs alongside a main road, filled with many bars and restaurants.

13. Metro station art

The best way to get around Moscow is by using the metro, and the metro is a tourist attraction in itself.

Although I obviously didn’t visit every metro station, I believe that every single station is unique in its own beautiful way. Many of the stations I passed through were impressive, quirky or simply jaw dropping. You’ll more than likely pass through many of them on the way to other sights, but I’d recommend the following:  Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Teatralnaya, Arbatskaya, Prospekt Mira and Ploschad Revolutsii (be sure to pet the dog statue for good luck).

There are of course many others for you to explore, but these are the ones I considered to be some of the most impressive places to visit in Moscow (even if they’re only metro stations!).

VDNKh is an exhibition centre with many monuments and museums. Now that it’s combined with the Botanical Garden and Ostankino Park, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to spend the day at this recreational centre enjoying a mix of nature and culture. The most popular museum in the complex which you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Moscow is the Museum of Cosmonautics.

15. Lenin's Mausoleum

Despite requesting to be buried with his mum in St Petersburg, it is at the foot of the Kremlin on Red Sqaure that you will find Lenin’s Mausoleum, where Vladimir Ilych Lenin has been frozen in time since 1924. It’s only open for a few hours a few times per week. Photography is not allowed, and you should line up on the western corner of the square (near Alexander Garden) to wait you turn to see the embalmed body. 

16. Novodevichy Convent

Novodevichy Convent, on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow. Located south west of the centre you’ll find this stunning monastery. Inside you’ll find a cathedral and several churches, surrounded by high walls and 12 towers.

Where are your favourite places to visit in Moscow?

What about the best things to do in Moscow? Anything you’d add?

Love as always and happy adventuring…

I’m Spike! Solo traveller, cultural explorer and world adventurer! With 57 countries under my belt, I live and breathe travel. I never plan to stop exploring new destinations and experiencing new cultures.

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Just last month, a handful of restaurants expanded to new locations, while a famed Long Beach dive bar prepares to celebrate its centennial. In Topanga Canyon, a farmers market returned after closing almost six years ago, and a beloved bakery reopened multiple locations after unexpectedly shuttering late last year.

Our writers tackled the dense urban playground that is Koreatown , weighing in on our favorite Korean fried chicken spots , the best Korean barbecue options and where to eat, drink and party late in the neighborhood . In the multistory package, we posit that Koreatown is more than a centrally located neighborhood in L.A., it’s a state of mind — evidenced by the popularity of a trilevel mall dedicated to Korean culture and newly named Koreatown, both of which are in Buena Park. In New York City, restaurant critic Bill Addison observed a Korean wave of fine dining that lives in its own universe , though a handful of L.A. newcomers are embracing a similar (but not too similar) take on the cuisine.

Whether it’s soup weather or warm enough to wait outside in hours-long lines for tacos from one of the city’s most cherished taqueros, we’re never without eating ideas in Los Angeles. This month, make it a point to visit a delightfully weird restaurant that’s planted in a home decor store, a Persian pop-up that’s gained roots with a small Silver Lake storefront and several newcomers to the 2024 Michelin California guide.

Brera Ristorante

Burger She Wrote

Café Tropical

Golden Soup

Joe Jost's

Kee Wah Bakery

Little Fish

Liu's Cafe

Mom, Please

Maciel's Plant-Based Butcher & Deli

Natas Pastries: Cafe and Bakery

Pam's Coffy

Pez Coastal Kitchen

Quarter Sheets

Roast Duck by Pa Ord

Street Churros

Sushi Sonagi

Sweet Lady Jane

Tacos Por Vida

Topanga Farmers Market

Xiaolongkan Hot Pot

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Things to Do in Kannur, India - Kannur Attractions

Things to do in kannur, explore popular experiences, tours in and around kannur.

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Private sightseeing tours.

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• Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach
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9 Things to See in Moscow's Red Square

 Sir Francis Canker/Getty Images

In most cases, you'll be entering Red Square from the north, passing landmarks such as the Bolshoi Theatre and Duma parliament building as you make your way southward. Although you don't necessarily have to pass through the Voskresensky (or Resurrection in English) Gates in order to gain access to the square these days, they definitely provide a sense of arrival, to say nothing of the way their left arch frame's St. Basil's Cathedral if you look from just the right angle.

An interesting fact is that while a gate of some kind has stood here since the mid-16th century, the one you currently see wasn't built until 1994, having been destroyed in 1931 so that tanks could enter and exit Red Square during military parades.

St. Basil's Cathedral

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Few sights are as iconic not only of Moscow and Red Square but indeed of Russia than St. Basil's Cathedral, whose colorful, onion-shaped domes are a symbol of the country around the world. Officially known as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, this church has stood since 1561, which is quite miraculous when you consider all the turbulent history that has transpired since then.

Among other things, religion was severely prohibited during the Soviet period , which led some to believe that this emblem of the Russian Orthodox church might not withstand the tenure of the USSR. 

An interesting fact is that St. Basil's is the so-called "Kilometer Zero" of Russia; all of Moscow's main roads (which can take you anywhere in Russia) begin at the exits to Red Square. In this way, St. Basil's iconic status also has an extremely tangible element.

The Kremlin

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

When you think of The Kremlin, it's unlikely that positive images enter your mind. The fact that simply saying the word "Kremlin" is too vague a descriptor (most Russian cities have their own Kremlin complexes; you should say "Moscow Kremlin") notwithstanding, this misunderstood place is incredibly beautiful, even if you don't like the policy that comes out of it.

Senate Square

In spite of its name, which refers to the role the building that rises above the square played during Imperial Russia, Senate Square is actually home to Russia's presidential administration, currently helmed by Vladimir Putin. In order to see where Russia's legislature operates from, walk just outside Red Square to the Duma parliament building.

Dormition Cathedral

Dating back to the year 1479, the gold-domed Dormition Cathedral pays homage to an Orthodox religious feast that commemorates the death of the Virgin Mary . As is the case with St. Basil's, it is curious that such a conspicuously religious structure was able to survive through the Soviet period.

Armoury Chamber

Though it takes its name from the fact that it housed Russia's royal arsenal when it was built in the 16th century, the most notable resident of the Kremlin's Armoury Chamber today is the Russian Diamond Fund.

Notable Kremlin Towers

Robert Schrader

The interior of the Moscow Kremlin is more beautiful and inviting than you'd expect, but the walls and towers that rise around it better live up to the intimidation with which the complex is associated. 

Borovitskaya Tower

Named to commemorate the dense forest that once stood atop the mount where it's built, this tower is extremely picturesque. Built in the late 15th century, it's visible from most places in the square, and also as you walk along the Moskva River.

Nikolskaya Tower

Also built in the year 1491, this tower currently suffered destruction at the hands of Napoleon's army in the 19th century. What you see now is the result of an 1816 re-design and renovation, though artillery fire during the Russian Revolution also caused superficial damage to the tower, named to honor St. Nikolas of Mozhaysk , so it's difficult to know which elements of it are original.

Spasskaya Tower

Known in English as the "Savior's Tower," this iconic, star-topped tower is perhaps the best-known of all the Kremlin's towers. Built in 1491 like the other two towers on this list, it's certainly the most photographed. As a result of its proximity to St. Basil's, it often makes its way into tourists' pictures.

Mausoleum of Lenin

Just as it's strange to learn how many religious monuments survived through the Soviet period, it's a bit odd to think that Lenin's preserved body still sits in a mausoleum just beneath the walls of the Kremlin on Red Square, given the lack of consensus about the ultimate impact of his Revolution, even in Russia.

It's not guaranteed that you'll be able to see the body (which, believe it or not, seems to be improving with age ) when you go, and if you do you will likely have to wait in line, but even strolling past the outside of the Lenin Mausoleum, flanked by stone-faced guards that almost look like statues, illuminates the gravity of his body still being here.

GUM Shopping Center

You might cringe, at least initially, when you realize that one of the most iconic stops on a tour of Red Square is a department store—until you see said department store, that is. Built in 1893 and known during Soviet times as the State Department Store, GUM  ( Glávnyj Universáľnyj Magazín​ or Main Universal Store in English) hearkens back to the grandeur of the late 19th century, both seen from the outside (especially, when lit up at night) and the interior, which might have you feeling like you're further west in Europe.

A trip inside GUM is a particularly good idea during winter, when frigid temperatures outside will have you savoring the heat, the quality of souvenirs, confections and other goods sold inside notwithstanding. Also, make sure not to confuse GUM with CDM, which sits near the Bolshoi Theatre, even though both are stunning and iconic in their own right.

State Historical Museum

The Russian State Historical Museum is located near Voskresensky Gates, though you should wait until after you've seen the first few attractions of Red Square and the Kremlin to head back there and go inside. To be sure, as you pass by its facade (whose late-19th century grandeur somewhat obscures that fact that it's currently a museum accessible to the public) you might not even think to try and gain entry.

Once inside the museum, you can plan to spend at least a couple of hours, given that artifacts here date back to the very beginning of the Russian state in the ninth century. As is the case with GUM, this will be a particularly alluring prospect if you visit in winter, when Moscow is arguably at its most beautiful, but certainly at its least tolerable. 

Minin-Pozharsky Monument

It's somewhat easy to disregard this monument, which pays homage to the two Russian princes who ended the so-called "Time of Troubles" in the mid-16th century, during which Polish-Lithuanian forces occupied Russia, among other awful things including a famine. That's because the statue currently sits just at the base of St. Basil's Cathedral, which makes it very difficult to photograph or even see without being overwhelmed by that much more famous edifice.

Though the statue originally sat at the very center of Red Square, it came to be an obstacle to the movement of tanks during the Soviet period, much like the Voskresensky Gates. As a result, authorities moved it during that time, and it's stayed where you currently find it ever since.

Kazan Cathedral

Taken by itself, the smokey-pink Kazan Cathedral is an architectural marvel; originally built in the 17th century, the church you find here today, located just north of the GUM department store, dates back only to 1993.

Unfortunately, since it sits not only in the shadow of GUM, but also in the shadow St. Basil's and the Towers of the Kremlin, it's easy to miss entirely if you aren't looking. As a result, you might wait until you've seen just about everything else in Red Square before coming here to take photos, and to appreciate the understated beauty of this oft-overlooked cathedral.

Moskva River

As you head south from St. Basil's Cathedral to exit Red Square, make sure to walk onto Bolshoy Moskvoretskiy Bridge, which crosses the Moskva River. If you look due north, you can get an excellent shot of the church framed, on the left, by the towers of the Kremlin. Directing your gaze a bit to the west allows you to see the skyscrapers of Moscow City as they rise above the Kremlin's walls.

Walking westward along the riverbank is also a worthwhile excursion, for the views it provides of Red Square and the Kremlin, as well as the fact that doing so takes you to other iconic Moscow attractions, including Gorky Park and the Pushkin Museum. The views you enjoy from the river and the bridge are particularly stunning at night, though you should make sure you bring a tripod if you want to get a clear picture, given how strong winds over and near the river can be.

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More From Forbes

15 affordable places to travel in 2024, ranked in a new report.

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Want to take an affordable vacation in 2024? You’ve come to the right place. Although travel costs are on the rise this year ( up 3.1% ), it’s still possible to save money in 2024—if you know where to go.

A new travel report from the U.K.’s Post Office —a British-based mail and financial services company — has just unveiled some of the most budget-friendly destinations for 2024. And although the annual report is aimed at U.K. travelers, it’s a helpful list for Americans, too.

By analyzing currency strengths, local prices and essential tourist expenses in 40 popular vacation destinations around the globe, the Holiday Money Report 2024 highlights some of the cheapest places to travel. The report ranks the destinations based on a barometer that takes the local price of eight tourist essentials into consideration—including coffee, beer, cola, wine, water, sunscreen, insect repellent and a three-course meal. And while the report doesn’t include factors like hotels and airfare, it helps give a good sense of where your dollars will stretch the furthest.

This is the 18th year that the Post Office has done this report. And the good news: Prices have fallen since last year in 25 spots on the list. (A note that the original report included prices in pounds sterling, which have been converted into dollars here, using the exchange rate on the date of publication of 1.26.)

An aerial view of Hoi An, Vietnam, the most affordable destination to travel in 2024, according to a ... [+] new report.

Leading the list as the cheapest place to travel right now is Hoi An, Vietnam. According to the Post Office report, a total estimated cost of just $64.51 a day for the travel essentials makes this charming gem the ultimate bang-for-your-buck destination that won’t break the bank. Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An entices visitors with its UNESCO -recognized Ancient Town, a picturesque spot where lantern-lit streets lead to quaint shops and street food stalls. It is also convenient to stunning white-sand beaches—some of the most beautiful in Asia .

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

Following closely behind in the second spot is Cape Town, South Africa, where an outlay of $68.48 a day for the essentials promises an unforgettable experience against the backdrop of Table Mountain and pristine coastlines. Here, you can dive into the vibrant culture and indulge in world-class dining (a three-course meal for two people averages less than $44.140) without denting your travel fund.

The coastline of Mombasa, Kenya, with a pair of camels on Diani Beach.

Mombasa, Kenya takes the third spot on the list. This beachfront destination on the east coast of Africa beckons with its white-sand shores, vibrant markets and rich Swahili heritage, offering an immersive experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.

In a surprising twist, Tokyo, Japan—a bustling metropolis where tradition meets modernity—secures the fourth spot on the list. According to the Post Office, just $74.43 a day is needed for essential tourist purchases. Helping drive this ranking was the cost of a glass of wine (an average of only $4.56) and a bottle of water (averaging 77¢).

The cliffs of the Algarve overlooking the Atlantic Ocean above the Benagil cave in Lagoa, Portug.a

Rounding out the top five is the Algarve in Portugal, which combines culture, history and natural beauty at a fraction of the cost compared to previous years. With its sun-drenched beaches, charming villages and delectable seafood, the Algarve offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking an affordable yet enriching getaway.

Here are top 15 best-value spots from the 2024 report. You can also download the full Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer for more locations and more details.

Overlooking a pristine beach in Hoi An, Vietnam.

• Hoi An, Vietnam - $64.51
• Cape Town, South Africa - $68.48
• Mombasa, Kenya - $69.96
• Tokyo, Japan - $74.43
• Algarve, Portugal - $75.33
• Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt - $77.36
• Sunny Beach, Bulgaria - $79.73
• Kuta, Bali - $79.79
• Marmaris, Turkey - $83.27
• Paphos, Cyprus - $92.49
• Penang, Malaysia - $93.98
• Phuket, Thailand - $97.97
• Delhi, India - $98.05
• Costa del Sol, Spain - $102.67
• Montego Bay, Jamaica - $109.76

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These are the 10 best places in the U.S. to raise a family—California didn't make the top 10

If you're looking for the best place in the U.S. to raise your family, consider moving to Illinois or Pennsylvania.

Both states contain several towns that ranked highly on a recent report from Niche assessing the nation's top family-friendly locales. The two states combined were home to seven of the top 10 places to raise a family in America.

To rank each location in terms of how much it would appeal to a family, the platform used data from the U.S. Census, Department of Education and FBI. It assessed factors including the quality of public schools in the area, cost of living, family amenities such as parks, libraries and cultural activities as well as walkability.

Other factors taken into account include:

• Crime rates
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Chesterbrook, Penn. took the top spot on Niche's list, thanks in part to the Philadelphia suburb's highly-rated public school system.

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The median listing home price in Chesterbrook was $355,000 in February 2024, trending down 4% year over year, according to Realtor.com . The median rent for an apartment in the suburb is $2,173, with the average size being around 950 sq. ft., according to RentCafe .

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The 10 best places to raise a family in America

• Chesterbrook, Penn.
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Home → Eclipse Resources for Maine Residents and Visitors

Eclipse Resources for Maine Residents and Visitors

“Maine is the best place in New England and one of the best places in North America to witness the historic solar eclipse. If you’re planning to travel anywhere in Maine on April 8, now is the time to make a plan so that you can safely and enjoyably experience this historic event.”  -- Governor Janet Mills

About the Eclipse

On Monday, April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will be seen from all parts of Maine.

The eclipse begins about 2 p.m. and will last for approximately 2.5 hours, with the total eclipse at approximately 3:20 p.m. for 3 minutes of total darkness.

Maine is one of thirteen states where the total solar eclipse will be visible.  Follow the path of totality here.  

Eclipse News Updates

• March 5:   Maine Urges Observers to Plan Ahead for Historic Eclipse - Visit Maine

Solar Eclipse Resources

• NASA:  2024 Total Solar Eclipse Hub  & Eclipse Viewing   Safety Guide (PDF)
• National Safety Council: How to Safely View a Solar Eclipse
• Maine Office of Tourism : 2024 Eclipse Guide
• University of Maine: Versant Astronomy Center Eclipse Guide
• Maine Department of Education: Solar Eclipse Resources for Educators
• National Weather Service : Eclipse Weather Forecast for Maine

Maine Eclipse Map 

Click to enlarge

10 Tips To Prepare for the Eclipse

• Obtain ISO-certified eclipse glasses; looking directly at the sun can burn your eyes.
• Plan primary and backup travel routes ahead of time
• Make any necessary travel accommodations now
• Pack a paper map – cell phone towers may become overloaded, and cell service is spotty in many areas within the path of totality
• Research places to obtain fuel and supplies near or at your travel destination
• Obtain permission before accessing privately owned lands.  
• Know that Maine State Park campgrounds and ATV trails will be closed.
• Plan as if you will get stuck in traffic; be patient, and pack plenty of snacks and water. 
• Planning to stay overnight on Monday is a great way to avoid traffic.
• Pay attention to the forecast and plan to dress accordingly – keep in mind that the temperature will drop as much as 10 degrees during the eclipse .

10 Tips To Enjoy the Eclipse Safely

• Wear your eclipse glasses while watching the event to avoid damaging your eyes.
• Have a full tank of gas or a full charge for your vehicle.
• It’s mud season in Maine – many dirt roads may not be passable. Stay on paved roads at all times. 
• Remember Maine State Park guidelines – campgrounds and ATV trails will be closed. 
• If you park and hike into the woods, do not hike beyond your skill level. Stay on marked trails and avoid venturing into unfamiliar or challenging terrain. 
• Anticipate traffic and congestion particularly in areas of totality. 
• Exit roadway to stop and view, take photos of eclipse, do not stop on the highway or the shoulder.  
• Ticks can be active any time the temperatures are above freezing. Make a post-eclipse tick check part of your routine.
• Never drive with eclipse glasses on.
• If you consume alcohol during the eclipse, be sure you have a designated driver.

Protecting the Maine Outdoors

• The North Maine Woods region is very remote, with no cell service. Attempting to access this privately owned area is not advised due to extremely wet and muddy conditions.  
• Avoid unpaved roads to prevent getting stuck in muddy terrain and steer clear of icy surfaces.
• Transporting firewood into Maine is against the law. Source firewood from within a 10-mile radius of your campsite. Invasive species, insects, and diseases can hitch a ride on firewood. They pose a grave threat to our forests, communities, and local businesses, including campgrounds. 
• Avoid Escaped Campfires : Escaped campfires are a leading cause of wildfires. Always fully extinguish fires before leaving campsites and follow guidelines provided by Maine Forest Rangers.    Preserve Sensitive Areas:  Respect the natural environment by refraining from hiking in sensitive areas. Damage to vegetation can have long-lasting effects on ecosystems and wildlife habitats.    ATV Trail Closures: ATV trails are closed. Please respect these closures to ensure your safety and preserve the integrity of the trails for future use. 
• Respect Maine’s Landowners: Please obtain permission before accessing privately owned lands. 

Spring Outdoor Recreation Safety

• Early Season Hiking Safety:  If you plan to hike to a location to view the eclipse, remember early season hiking conditions require careful planning and preparation. Trails are likely to still be covered in snow, ice and mud.
• Baxter State Park will be closed to camping, and Katahdin trails will be closed due to the protection of alpine vegetation and seasonal weather safety considerations.
• Ice Safety Precautions : Ice conditions currently in Maine are treacherous and most waterways will not be safe to step onto during the eclipse. Please review these ice safety reminders and stay off frozen waterbodies while viewing the eclipse in Maine.
• Early Season Boating Safety:  If you plan to view the eclipse by boat on the water, be safe and ALWAYS wear your life jacket. Water temperatures in early April are dangerously cold. Even experienced swimmers will experience cold-water shock within one minute in frigid water and lose muscle control within 10 minutes. 
• Avoid Conflicts with Black Bears and other Wildlife: Animals may be confused during the eclipse. Enjoy wildlife from a distance, and do not approach or feed wildlife. Bears are already out of their dens, and looking for food. Black bear attacks in Maine are very uncommon, but bears will act aggressive if surprised or cornered. Learn more here.

Protect Your Eyes

Looking at the sun during an eclipse can damage your eyes permanently.

Protect your eyes by wearing appropriate solar eclipse sunglasses or using a handheld solar viewer during the eclipse.

According to NASA, you can view the eclipse directly without proper eye protection only when the Moon completely obscures the Sun’s bright face – during the brief period known as totality. (You’ll know it’s safe when you can no longer see any part of the Sun through eclipse glasses or a solar viewer.)

As soon as you see even a little bit of the bright Sun reappear after totality, immediately put your eclipse glasses back on or use a handheld solar viewer to look at the Sun.

Drive Safely

• For up-to-date road closure information visit www.newengland511.org
• If you see road hazards, please call 911.
• Maine law requires drivers to move over or slow down when approaching stopped emergency, public service, or disabled vehicles on the side of the road. Be sure to slow down and give space -- it will protect your safety and theirs.
• Pack an emergency car kit  with a paper map (in case cellular/GPS service is unavailable because of remote location or due to cell service overloads), cash, prescriptions and spare glasses, a first aid kit, mobile phone and chargers, water and snacks, and books and games for the car in case of traffic delays.

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• Where to Go in 2024 Overview: Where to Go in 2024

The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2024

• An Insider's Guide to Paris — Luxury Hotels, Vintage Shops, and the City's Best Restaurants Included
• This Southern U.S. City Was Named One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024
• 5 Coastal Towns in Alaska That Are Adorable in Any Weather
• T+L's Review of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur
• This Exclusive Helicopter Dining Experience Is the Best Way to See the 'Grand Canyon of Mallorca’
• Where to Go in 2024 The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2024 An Insider's Guide to Paris — Luxury Hotels, Vintage Shops, and the City's Best Restaurants Included This Southern U.S. City Was Named One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024 5 Coastal Towns in Alaska That Are Adorable in Any Weather T+L's Review of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur This Exclusive Helicopter Dining Experience Is the Best Way to See the 'Grand Canyon of Mallorca’ CLOSE Part of Where to Go in 2024

Where to go in 2024, according to Travel + Leisure editors — for cultural immersion and major travel bragging rights.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Well, you knew it was coming. This year, more than 20 Travel + Leisure staffers weighed in to create this hand-picked list of the places that thoughtful, curious travelers should consider in 2024.

These are the destinations that have captured our imaginations, the spots where T+L editors want to spend their own time in the year ahead. Among the picks are Canada's Métis Crossing, which headlined our October 2023 issue ; Istanbul, for which our editor in chief makes a compelling case ; and Paris, because there's a little thing called Les Jeux Olympiques coming up.

Other, lesser-known places are on the rise. Consider the small towns of Sonoma County, where new businesses are doing big things ; a remote corner of Australia, where expedition ships are the way in; a Himalayan hideaway where visitors are left breathless and not just because of the altitude.

We hope this list inspires you to see the world in a new way in the coming year. We'll see you out there.

— Edited by Paul Brady and Maya Kachroo-Levine  

Travel + Leisure

Destination by Category

For cultural immersion, ålborg, denmark.

Alexander Farnsworth/Getty Images

It rates as Denmark’s fourth-largest city, with around 120,000 residents, but out-of-the-way Ålborg might seem an unlikely international-travel hub. That's not stopping Scandinavian Airlines, which is betting on the compact, alluring city with newly launched flights from Newark Liberty International, which will run three times a week from April through October. The cobbled streets of Ålborg’s old town are lined with half-timbered houses and pastel exteriors; the attractively refurbished waterfront — where you’ll find the newly renovated Pier 5 Hotel — is another walkable district. The city’s rich cultural scene includes a modern art museum , an architecture center, and, a short drive away, Regan Vest , a Cold War museum that opened in a former bunker in February 2023. Indeed, Ålborg is a gateway to the wider region of North Jutland, with its dramatic coastline around the town of Skagen, long a draw to Danish artists; windswept dunes of Thy National Park ; and 2,000-year-old Viking ring fortresses which have, at long last, been collectively designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site . — Peter Terzian

Cartagena, Colombia

Sofia Jaramillo

A perennially hot destination, Colombia is coming into its own as a luxury escape these days, thanks to a ton of excitement in and around Cartagena, on the country’s Caribbean coast. In 2023, the city welcomed Casa Pestagua , a 16-room boutique hotel within a restored 17th-century building, in the historic center. Now, the same owners are working to open bungalows on Isla Barú, a popular day-trip spot, before the end of 2023. Sustainability minded travelers can find their fit at Blue Apple Beach , an eco-hotel on Tierra Bomba Island, just off the coast, that’s B Corp certified and generates half its power from solar, as T+L recently reported . In 2024, Disney's “Encanto”-themed tour of Colombia will debut, shining more light on Cartagena, one of the many stops on the itinerary. And there’s even more growth in the pipeline: Delta Air Lines is adding new nonstop flights to Cartagena from Atlanta in December 2023, a Four Seasons hotel is on the horizon, and the nation is investing in an airport expansion that will serve an ever-increasing number of visitors. — Susmita Baral

Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond Train

Courtesy of Belmond

After a four-year pause, this luxury train that crisscrosses Southeast Asia will ride again in February. Several new itineraries will be available on the revamped Express, which has 15 cherry wood–clad cabins and vibrant Malay-inspired decor. The Essence of Malaysia journey, for example, takes travelers from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, with side trips to Langkawi, for snorkeling in Pulau Payar Marine Park, and Penang, among the greatest food cities on the planet. Alternatively, a Wild Malaysia option includes a stop at Taman Negara National Park, where visitors might spot a Sumatran rhino or tiger. “These ‘slow travel’ journeys give our guests the opportunity to rest their mind, rekindle, and reconnect,” said Dan Ruff, the CEO of Belmond. Much like a storied ocean liner, the majestic Eastern & Oriental Express is a destination unto itself, with a sultry piano bar car; an open-air lounge with wicker furniture where passengers can watch the Malaysian jungle rush by; and two restaurant carriages serving Peranakan food. You may not have had "eating laksa on a luxury train" on your 2024 bingo card, but you really should. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Christian Kain

For one month between June and July, soccer — or should we say fußball — will take over Germany, as the nation hosts the 2024 UEFA European Football Championship. Held every four years, the tournament for men’s national teams will take place in 10 cities across Germany, including Berlin, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Munich. “This will be an incredible, not-to-be-missed moment,” said Sofia Markovich , a travel advisor on T+L's A-List who specializes in Austria and Germany. “I expect interest to go through the roof as this is a major sports event — second only to the World Cup.” Even casual fans should find the atmosphere thrilling, Markovich said, particularly those who happen to pass through game-day destinations while cruising the country’s rivers . One host city deserves a particular spotlight thanks to the new Rosewood Munich , which opened in October. Set across two buildings (one, formerly the headquarters of the State Bank of Bavaria, the other, a Baroque residence), the 132-key property is steps from the charms of Old Town, including the leafy Maximiliansplatz, and walkable to one of Europe’s most surprising surf spots: the rapids of the Isar River . — Liz Cantrell

Métis Crossing, Alberta

Amber Bracken

“This is not a place where you look at old things behind glass,” said Juanita Marois, the CEO of Métis Crossing, one of Canada’s most compelling Indigenous tourism projects. “This is an immersive destination where you experience the culture and the warmth of the Métis people through our land, water, skies, buildings, food, and programs.” The 688-acre retreat, which writer Carleigh Baker detailed in T+L’s October 2023 issue , is today home to a 40-room lodge, a cultural center, and campgrounds. Depending on the season, visitors can learn about traditional crafts, enjoy festivals held on-site, or head out for bird-watching, canoeing, or snowshoeing. A new addition to Métis Crossing is a collection of eight Sky Watching Domes , luxe stand-alone suites with panoramic skylight windows. From the Domes, Marois explained, “guests can listen to Indigenous stories of the night skies, see the stars, and view the aurora borealis." — Jalyn Robinson

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, Georgia

Getty Images

It’s not every day the U.S. gets a new national park, but 2024 could see this central Georgia destination enter the fold. Presently managed as a national historical park, Ocmulgee is home to large earthen mounds, including temple complexes, created by numerous Native American peoples over thousands of years. Should Congress approve the new designation in 2024, Ocmulgee will become the first national park in the state and the first in the U.S. to be co-managed by a nation whose ancestors were removed from the area: the Muscogee (Creek) were forcibly relocated from central Georgia as a result of the Indian Removal Act of 1830. “We now have an opportunity to come back and not feel like we are visiting, but to feel like we are coming home,” said Tracie Revis, a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and the director of advocacy for the Ocmulgee National Park & Preserve Initiative, a community group. The gateway to the park is the city of Macon, where the Muscogee (Creek) Nation flag flies alongside the Stars and Stripes, and the street signs are being replaced with ones written in both Muscogee and English. A particularly opportune time to visit will be in September, for the town’s annual Indigenous film festival . — Liz Cantrell  

Rajasthan, India

Aparna Jayakumar

India’s northwestern state of Rajasthan, with its wealth of iconic hotels and cultural attractions, is one of the best-known among U.S. travelers. It also promises new delights in the coming year, with several new addresses in Jaipur worth planning a trip around. There's Villa Palladio , a delightful nine-room hotel on the outskirts of town created by the Swiss-Dutch team behind Bar Palladio , an Instagram favorite in the city center. The Johri is a beautifully designed five-room property with a chic cocktail bar and organic vegetarian restaurant on the ground level, tucked away in a heritage townhouse in Jaipur's Old Town. Meanwhile, the Anantara hospitality group is set to launch its first-ever property in India next year. The 150-room, new-build Anantara Jaipur Hotel is designed with India's ballooning market for destination weddings in mind: it will have event facilities that can accommodate as many as 2,500 guests. In the meantime, the city and wider region are becoming more accessible than ever, thanks to a new six-lane expressway that connects Jaipur to New Delhi, a major hub for international flights. — Flora Stubbs

Shinta Mani Mustang, Nepal

Courtesy of Shinta Mani Mustang

A once-forbidden kingdom is now home to some truly palatial digs. Nepal’s Mustang district, which opened to outsiders in 1992 , is a place to watch in 2024 thanks to this stunning, 29-suite hotel, which welcomed its first guests in August. Shinta Mani Mustang, the latest property from the Bensley Collection, delivers the luxurious wellness experiences and thoughtful design that devotees of the brand have come to expect. Guests can spend their days trekking the surrounding Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, searching for rare wildlife like the Pallas’s cat and Tibetan wolf, horseback riding, and visiting local villages. “What caught my attention was that the outstanding aesthetics and architecture are in sync with sustainable and responsible tourism,” said Carole Cambata, an advisor on T+L's A-List and expert in Himalayan travel. “They sourced local building materials and used Indigenous construction methods.” The noteworthy opening comes at a time of positive change: in April, the Nepal Mountaineering Academy and the Nepal Tourism Board partnered on a program to educate the country’s first-ever class of LGBTQ+ trekking guides, CNN reported , in an effort to make Nepal’s hiking and climbing industries more inclusive. “Nepal is one of Asia’s most progressive countries for LGBTQ+ people due to laws that forbid gender identity discrimination,” said John Clifford , another A-List advisor. “Visitors to the country can even select ‘other’ as an option for gender identification on their visas.” — Samantha Falewée

Tallinn, Estonia

Nina Ruggiero/Travel + Leisure

This country’s literacy and secondary education rates consistently rank near the top in Europe, especially among women, so it should come as no surprise that Tartu, the university city to the southeast of Tallinn, has been designated Europe’s Capital of Culture for 2024 . Still, for first-timers to the Baltics, there’s no better place to get schooled than the country’s capital city, Tallinn: its walled Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved examples of Medieval architecture in the world. PoCo Art Museum , which opened in May with pop art by Andy Warhol, Banksy, David Hockney, and Jeff Koons, is now one of nearly 50 art institutions in the city, joining Fotografiska (world-renowned photography), Kumu Art Museum (contemporary Estonian art), and Kadriorg Art Museum (early European and Russian art). After soaking in the culture, head for the Noblessner district , an industrial shipyard area turned seafront hot spot that’s now bursting with stylish cafes, shops, and Estonia’s first restaurant with two Michelin stars, 180° by Matthias Diethe . (You might also try a “ smoke sauna ” at Scandi-chic Iglupark .) As for where to stay, the new Nunne Boutique Hotel has views over Old Town’s Towers Square . —  Nina Ruggiero

Warsaw, Poland

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

The thriving contemporary art scene in Warsaw, which is home to art-circuit stalwarts like the Foksal Gallery Foundation and Raster Gallery , will get a big boost in 2024, when the Museum of Modern Art in Warsaw finally moves into its own headquarters. Founded in 2005, the museum has burnished the city’s art reputation for two decades, with its holdings of both foreign and Polish work, despite operating out of temporary spaces. The new HQ will be part of a 22-acre arts district centered on the existing Palace of Culture and Science, a Stalinist skyscraper that towers over the city. The museum, along with a new 800-seat TR Warszaw Theater nearby, was designed by Thomas Phifer and Partners , the architecture firm behind other notable institutions, including the Glenstone Museum in Maryland and portions of New York’s Corning Museum of Glass . — Denny Lee

For the Food and Drinks

The austrian countryside.

Journey south of Vienna and you’ll find two of the regions that give the countryside of Austria its fairy-tale quality. Styria has rolling hills and hiking trails, with the medieval city of Graz at its heart. Mellow, rural Burgenland is home to Lake Neusiedl, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both regions have a long, rich history of winemaking, and in recent years, have become the site of a burgeoning natural wine scene. Cult producers such as Winery Maria and Sepp Muster and Alice & Roland Tauss should be at the top of any visitor’s list, as should Burgenland’s beloved vintners Gut Oggau and Meinklang . Then, round out a visit to the country with a stay at Rosewood Schloss Fuschl , a meticulously restored 15th-century castle opening on the shores of a small lake near Salzburg in spring 2024. — Peter Terzian

Mérida, Mexico

Itzel Garrido/Travel + Leisure

The capital of Yucatán, this city has long been popular with Mexican travelers drawn to its Maya ruins, cerulean-blue cenotes, restored haciendas, and incredible food . But it has a growing acclaim among international visitors — especially LGBTQ+ travelers, who often describe Yucatán as very gay friendly . Mérida’s historic beauty and laid-back cantina culture might explain why LGBTQ+ retirees have embraced the city in recent years, buying homes and bringing their friends along. Those not ready to make a full-on move will find lots of designer hotels carved out of stately mansions, not to mention wonderful shopping and plenty of food tours, both in the city and in the surrounding countryside, which is punctuated by haciendas, many of which host pop-up events or even overnight guests. Plans for a sprawling new “ Yucatán Central Park ,” with a food market and amphitheater, remain hazy, as does an exact timeline for the arrival of the ballyhooed Maya Train , which is nearing completion and should make it easier to hop between Mérida and popular seaside spots such as Cancún and Tulum. — Denny Lee

Sonoma County, California

Gentl & Hyers

More than double the size of Napa, Sonoma might offer twice as much to do. It’s not just about the wine — though with the addition of a new American Viticultural Area (AVA) called West Sonoma Coast last year, Sonoma County now has 19 AVAs slinging chardonnay, pinot noir, and zinfandel at established wineries, such as Flowers and Scribe , and new ones, including Vérité Wines . There’s also a long coastline to explore, from Bodega Bay up to Sea Ranch, where the dreamy, cliff-top Sea Ranch Lodge is newly renovated . Inland, the opening of Dawn Ranch shines a spotlight on Guerneville , a crunchy town along the Russian River known for its LGBTQ+ scene and proximity to the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. Tear yourself from the 22-acre haven, with tree house–like cabins, creekside glamping tents, and alfresco redwood tubs at the idyllic spa, to bike into town where the reimagined Piknik Market serves one of Oprah’s favorite biscuits . The changes coming to Sonoma County in 2024 are largely shaped by the area’s most famous chefs: in Healdsburg, California, Noma alum Stu Stalker debuted the plant-based restaurant Second Story, above Little Saint and down the street from Michelin three-starred SingleThread and chef Dustin Valette’s The Matheson . Restaurant powerhouse Charlie Palmer plans to launch his hotel brand, Appellation , in Healdsburg by the end of next year. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

For Big-city Thrills

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

“It’s a classic Asian megacity: frenetic, neon-lit, and overwhelming to the senses,” said Jack Tydeman , a Southeast Asia specialist at Audley Travel and member of T+L's A-List. But change is coming to Bangkok, in the form of many megaprojects, including Dusit Central Park, which is slated to open in 2024, with the 259-room Dusit Thani Bangkok Hotel and a multi-terraced roof park. Also coming soon will be King Rama IX Memorial Park, a park that honors the sustainability initiatives of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Meanwhile, Lumpini Park , Bangkok’s original public green space, is getting a massive refresh next year that will add a new food hall, a vegetable farm, and a sports club ahead of its centennial. Even while sprinting to finish these new developments, Bangkok is finding time to slow down and prioritize wellness. Luxury travel network Virtuoso recently named Thailand as just one of five “emerging self-care destinations” worldwide, noting that “travelers are seeking a more spiritual journey, turning to Thailand for more than the traditional Thai massage.” The forthcoming Aman Nai Lert Bangkok , slated for 2024, is sure to deliver, with 52 spacious suites overlooking Nai Lert Park and a multifloor wellness sanctuary. — Susmita Baral

Courtesy of Cleveland Museum of Natural History

The year ahead has the Land set to shine, thanks to national and international events, world-class cultural expansions, and the rebirth of historic hotels. It all starts in April, when the NCAA Women’s Final Four comes to the state-of-the-art Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse and a total solar eclipse sweeps over the city on April 8, 2024. Cleveland will see even more action when the Pan-American Masters Games crisscross the city July 12-21. And in November, The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, which was held in Brooklyn in 2023, will return home. Meanwhile, many institutions are in the midst of revitalization. The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is nearing completion of its multiyear $150-million expansion, with updated exhibits and new public spaces in University Circle. Karamu House , the nation’s oldest Black producing theater, will debut a new restaurant, outdoor stage, and an additional venue in the Fairfax neighborhood. The city’s oldest hotel will reopen in 2024 after extensive renovations as a Marriott Autograph Collection called Hotel Cleveland. Also coming is the Fidelity Hotel, a new boutique property with a speakeasy that's slated to launch in a landmark building downtown. There’s development along the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie, too, where paved hiking and biking trails are livening up a waterfront that has, for many decades, been underutilized. — Jennifer Salerno Yong

Fort Worth, Texas

Mariah Tyler

Offering classic Western experiences like bull riding, cattle drives, and stock shows, Fort Worth, Texas, is booming, bringing in $3 billion in tourism revenue last year alone. With all of the renewed interest in the city, luxury hotels are flocking to Cowtown’s Cultural District. The Crescent Hotel, Fort Worth opened in November, home to the first-ever wellness club by Canyon Ranch and a Mediterranean restaurant by Food Network chef Preston Paine. Bowie House, Auberge Resorts Collection , is slated to open its doors December 2023, with a tree-lined pool terrace, chic spa, and upscale chophouse called Bricks and Horses. Walking distance from both hotels is The National Cowgirl Museum , which will run a 2024 exhibit honoring the Mexican female horseback riding tradition of escaramuza charra . Looking ahead, the National Juneteenth Museum is scheduled to open in the city’s Historic Southside neighborhood in 2025. — Mariah Tyler

Turkey’s style capital is seeing a resurgence of life along the Bosphorus, thanks in part to the Galataport, the world’s first underground cruise ship terminal with a pedestrian promenade and the Renzo Piano–designed Istanbul Museum of Modern Art just above. Another neighborhood anchor is the 177-room Peninsula Hotel , spread out over four buildings, three of which date to the early 1900s. Highlights include a glittering pool facing the Hagia Sophia; a sprawling, subterranean spa; and Gallada, a rooftop restaurant from whiz kid chef Fatih Tutak, whose eponymous restaurant is Turkey’s first to earn two Michelin stars. The hotel staff wears posh uniforms courtesy of Arzu Kaprol, a designer who has a boutique in the nearby Paket Postanesi, a historic post office turned chic shopping mall. Also on the waterfront, in Beşiktaş, the lavish Çırağan Palace Kempinski has been reimagined by local interior designer Serdar Gülgün, with rooms that lean into Ottoman-era grandeur (think tulip-pattern motifs and mother-of-pearl furniture). Finally, don’t miss The Basilica Cistern, open again after a five-year closure, and now hosting contemporary art exhibits amid the ancient columns. — Jacqui Gifford

Kansas City, Missouri

Jonathan Tasler/Courtesy of Visit KC

World famous for barbecue and jazz, KC is now staking a claim as a global leader in sports and entertainment — and not just because of Taylor and Travis . In March, the Kansas City Current, of the National Women's Soccer League, will open the first-ever purpose-built stadium for women’s pro sports. “It will be a destination for sports lovers and will inspire generations of girls to follow their dreams,” said Katie Mabry van Dieren, CEO and curator of The Strawberry Swing , a brand that organizes events and pop-ups in the city, as well as Shop Local KC , a string of boutiques. The stadium’s construction has spurred other developments around the city, including the forthcoming Origen Hotel KC , a 118-room boutique property; the massive Berkley Beer Garden; and an extension of the free KC Streetcar that will serve the Berkley Riverfront area. Also coming soon is the country’s first entertainment district of its kind, the Rock Island Bridge , a reclaimed rail crossing over the Kansas River. “Visitors will be able to enjoy two levels of entertainment with food from two restaurants and three bars, plus a covered event space with a dance floor and open veranda seating overlooking the river and city,” a source told T+L of the High Line–inspired project that will connect Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas City, Kansas. — Jalyn Robinson

Raf Willems/Getty Images

Just when you think Sin City can’t get any bigger, louder, or glitzier, Las Vegas turns it up another notch. On the heels of blockbuster residencies from Adele , Katy Perry, and Lady Gaga, U2 kicked off their inaugural stint at the long-anticipated Sphere this fall. Filmmaker Darren Aronofsky’s immersive sci-fi production “Postcard from Earth” will also show off the new arena’s 16K LED display, beginning this fall and continuing through 2024. Formula 1 and Netflix’s Formula 1: Drive to Survive captured a growing American audience for the international racing circuit, and the Las Vegas Grand Prix will hit The Strip Nov. 16-18, 2023, and again Nov. 21-23, 2024. It won’t be the only megaevent on the sports calendar: Las Vegas will host Super Bowl LVIII on Feb. 11, 2024, at Allegiant Stadium, marking the first time the game will take place in Nevada. Still not enough? The 67-story Fontainebleau Las Vegas will open in December with 3,700 rooms and a ton of buzzy restaurants, including a Casa Dragones Tasting Room and a Chinese noodle den from the restaurateur behind Wagamama and Hakkasan. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Louisville, Kentucky

Nick Simonite/Courtesy of Hotel Genevieve

The Kentucky Derby will celebrate its 150th anniversary on May 4, 2024, as well as the debut of the redesigned Churchill Downs Paddock, which is coming off a multiyear, $200-million renovation. Those that can’t make race day can brush up on the event’s history and culture year-round at the Kentucky Derby Museum , which has interactive exhibits on subjects like Black horsemen’s contributions to racing . Continue on theme at Derby City Hotel, a Canopy by Hilton property, which will open in downtown Louisville this summer with 168 rooms plus a rooftop pool and bar, or opt for another new property, such as The Myriad Hotel, Common Bond Hotel Collection , or the trendy Hotel Genevieve by Bunkhouse Group. Also coming in 2024 is “Ali,” a musical about the Louisville icon, which opens at the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts in the fall. There’s news on the spirits scene, too, including the launch of Bourbon and Belonging – Kentucky’s Queer Bourbon Week, a statewide celebration running Oct. 3-6, 2024, that will have events in Louisville and beyond. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

As close as you can get to Europe without the transatlantic flight, this island city of nearly 2 million is newly relevant in the year ahead, thanks to forward-thinking infrastructure that’s made it one of the greenest and most visitor-friendly spots in North America. The Réseau Express Métropolitain, or REM, is a new automated light rail system that Canada’s Globe and Mail calls “ Montreal’s biggest public transit project in more than half a century ,” with a growing number of stations coming online in the years ahead. (All of them are or will be “ universally accessible .”) The Grand Quay, the city-center pier that many cruise ships use, has a new attraction in the form of the Port of Montreal Tower , a blocky observation spire that echoes the look of the famed Habitat 67 nearby. Meanwhile, the city’s bike-sharing program, Bixi, which launched back in 2009, is still going strong and now offers an all-you-can-bike monthly pass for just $14 that makes using the system a no brainer; the city’s 560 miles of bike lanes help, too. The recently renovated Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton , and the new-in-2023 Honeyrose Hotel, Montreal, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel , join the four-year-old Four Seasons in adding a touch of luxury that had, perhaps, been missing in the heart of the city. That said, Montreal has more than 24,000 hotel rooms — and plenty of Airbnbs — across the metro area, which will make it an ideal last-minute destination for eclipse watchers who want to be in the path of totality on April 8. — Paul Brady

When Paris hosts 329 distinct sporting events next summer, the whole city will be on display: the first-ever Olympic Games breakdancing competition will be at Place de la Concorde; beach volleyball courts will skirt the Eiffel Tower; and the opening ceremony’s Parade of Nations will sail down the Seine River. The host city of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games (July 26-August 11) and Paralympic Games (August 28-September 8) will welcome visitors with a flurry of new hotels and restaurants. Chateau des Fleurs is an extravagant new stay in the eighth arrondissement with 19th-century style and an haute Korean restaurant. Celebrated hotel designer Martin Brudnizki just unveiled two projects : the 50-room Grand Mazarin , in the Marais, and La Fantaisie in the ninth. And the hoteliers behind the Hôtel Dame Des Arts , which appeared on T+L’s 2023 It List , unveiled their train-themed Hôtel des Grand Voyageurs in Saint-Germain-des-Prés in October. The legacy establishments have new life, too: Hotel Plaza Athénée , named the best hotel in Paris by T+L readers, has a French restaurant, Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée, which recently scored two Michelin stars, to say nothing of the property’s brand-new Dior Spa. And the sumptuous La Tour d’Argent restaurant just got a sensational facelift. Meanwhile, “numerous museums and institutions will host sports-related exhibitions, films, performances, workshops, and kids’ programming throughout the summer,” writer Lindsey Tramuta reported in T+L’s November 2023 issue. For those in need of a sports break, La Galerie Dior and Fragonard Musée du Parfum are two new additions to the scene worth checking out. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

For Moments on the Water

Coastal alaska.

Cruising is back in a big way, and Alaska's Inside Passage is leading the charge. In 2023, the state saw ships including Regent’s Seven Seas Explorer and Carnival’s Luminosa for the first time, while Royal Caribbean recently sent Brilliance of the Seas north for the first time in years. The new Klawock port, on Prince of Wales Island, is poised to welcome large ships in the 2024 season with food and retail outposts, exhibits detailing Indigenous culture and history, and nature trails. Skagway, a well-known port that’s home to Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and the scenic White Pass and Yukon Route Railway, is getting a 550-foot floating pier, which will allow the port to host two megaships simultaneously beginning in the 2024 season. Lately, that season has been getting longer: most companies run trips May to September, but Norwegian Cruise Line had October sailings in 2023, which gave passengers a look at Alaskan life during a quieter season. Considering Alaska is projected to notch 1.65 million cruise travelers on around 700 voyages this year, opting for a shoulder season trip in 2024 might not be a bad idea. —  Nina Ruggiero

Coastal Norway

Sebastian Lamberg Torjusen/Courtesy of Salmon Eye

Long known for its cutting-edge design and architectural marvels like the Oslo Opera House, Norway has lately doubled down on building big. “Over the last few years, we’ve seen a surge in new attractions,” confirmed Katrine Mosfjeld, the chief marketing officer for Visit Norway. In seaside Oslo, the new luxury hotel Sommero is a study in adaptive reuse, inside a landmark building from 1930 originally designed by famed Norwegian architects Andreas Bjercke and Georg Eliassen. Four hours southwest, in Kristiansand, the Kunstsilo , or Art Silo, is another repurposed wonder: the one-time industrial complex will reemerge in 2024 as a museum devoted to Nordic modernist art. Up the coast, in Bergen, Iris Expedition Dining is a new tasting-menu destination located in Hardangerfjord, inside a floating sculpture known as the Salmon Eye. North of the Arctic Circle, the long-awaited Six Senses Svart promises to be one of the hottest openings anywhere when it finally debuts. The ring-shaped resort, at the base of the Svartisen glacier, aims to be off-grid, carbon-neutral, and emissions-free, with a zero-waste dining program and a “design lab,” as the hotel calls it, meant to foster further innovation. — Taylor McIntyre

Douro River, Portugal

Courtesy of Tauck

As recently as a decade ago, almost nobody was talking about wine tourism in Portugal. These days, “you have to see the Douro River,” said Sheree M. Mitchell , a T+L A-List advisor based in the country and the president of Immersa Global. “It’s non-negotiable.” Mitchell’s preferred way to do it is on a yacht charter, which gives guests the chance to spend a few hours or days hitting quintas , or wine estates, and dining at Michelin Guide–approved restaurants like Castas e Pratos . Cruises are a more affordable option, and lines are expanding their presence on the river, which cuts across Spain and Northern Portugal before reaching the Atlantic in the city of Porto. Tauck , a favorite among T+L readers, unveiled the Andorinha in 2021, which will sail 33 wine-country itineraries in 2024. Another T+L reader favorite, Viking, will have four ships on the Douro in the year ahead, visiting towns such as Peso da Régua and Pinhão, in the heart of port country. And AmaWaterways recently announced a special November 2024 departure that will “explore the history of the Black and African diaspora in Lisbon and along Portugal's stunning Douro River,” according to the brand. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Faroe Islands

This remote, starkly beautiful archipelago in the North Atlantic just got way more accessible. Summer 2023 saw Atlantic Airways launch nonstop flights from New York Stewart International, 70 miles north of New York City, to Vágar Airport, in the islands. “This direct flight is not only about easier transport to our great ocean nation, but a means of creating a bridge between two worlds,” Jóhanna á Bergi, CEO of Atlantic Airways, told T+L. The news seems to have been warmly received by U.S. travelers. Melissa Lee , a Northern Europe specialist on T+L’s A-List said she has seen an uptick in interest in the Faroes. "Previously, you could only get there from Copenhagen, or Reykjavik, Iceland.” Once there, a world of adventure awaits, with activities including cold-water surfing , traditional knitting , and hiking to places such as Sørvágsvatn, the so-called lake above the ocean . Then there’s the top-flight dining: the restaurant Roks in Tórshavn, the Faroe Islands’ capital, is an offshoot of Koks, the Michelin two-starred restaurant in Greenland which is presently on hiatus. — Liz Cantrell

Kimberley, Australia

Bruno Cazarini/Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

This destination in northwest Australia, also called The Kimberleys, is home to ancient wonders: dinosaur tracks; striated geological formations, some 350 million years old, known as Bungle Bungles; waterfalls and reefs that seem unmoored from time; and Aboriginal history from what some call the world’s oldest continuous culture . Lately, though, some of the world’s top cruise lines have caught on to all the upside and are racing to offer thrilling expedition-style itineraries that combine all this history with modern-day adventures, such as sightseeing flights by helicopter, paddling, Zodiac tours, scuba diving, and cultural excursions. Silversea will have its Silver Cloud in the region from May through September, doing 10- to 17-day trips, with a maximum of 200 passengers. Seabourn is also bullish on the destination, and its newest expedition ship, the 132-suite Seabourn Pursuit , will spend June, July, and August cruising the region. (Both lines are perennial favorites among T+L readers .) Also operating on this remarkable stretch of coast are several Australian companies , including Coral Expeditions and True North Adventure Cruises , as well as private yacht charters like those organized by Yotspace . — Paul Brady

The Mississippi River

Courtesy of Viking

New ships are bringing fresh interest to one of America’s most storied waterways, meaning now’s the time to consider river cruising closer to home. “The Mississippi River is such an important part of American history,” said Adam Peakes, president of Hornblower Group, the parent company of American Queen Voyages. The line will have two ships on the Mississippi in 2024, both of which are already booking up for summer. “Many of our cabin categories are nearly at capacity almost a year in advance,” Peakes added. Other brands are also betting on the river: the Viking Mississippi launched in 2022, with 193 Scandi-chic suites, all with private verandas; American Cruise Lines has launched three new ships on the Mississippi in the past three years. There are new draws on land, too. In Memphis, the newly completed riverfront Tom Lee Park has an installation by artist Theaster Gates and a pavilion named for Tyre Nichols; the expansive riverfront attraction — a collaborative effort from Studio Gang, Scape Studio, and numerous other architectural and design firms — sits just south of Beale Street and is connected to the city via the River Line, a walking and cycling path. Meanwhile Natchez, Mississippi, is these days “filled with surprises, thanks in large part to a cohort of young natives who wandered away and then returned home with new ideas,” according to Southern Living ; come December, the town hosts holiday markets akin to those in Central Europe, as T+L recently reported . In St. Louis, the newest 21c Museum Hotel recently opened in a renovated, century-old YMCA building, with numerous permanent art installations as well as rotating shows and a beautiful, all-day cafe. And, of course, there’s always New Orleans . — Paul Brady

Courtesy of Cunard

Few voyages are as iconic as a transatlantic crossing aboard a Cunard ocean liner. So when the new Queen Anne departs Southampton, England, in May 2024, expectations will be sky-high for the first new Cunard ship to launch since the Queen Elizabeth in 2010. The 1,498-cabin vessel is slated to sail to Lisbon and will then spend its first summer in the Mediterranean. It will also represent an evolution for the 183-year-old brand: Queen Anne will have four new restaurants, including an omakase venue and an Indian dining room, alongside more familiar options such as the Princess Grill and Queens Grill, all overseen in partnership with U.K. chef Michel Roux, Jr. A top-deck wellness studio, with yoga and other fitness classes, will be another noteworthy addition to the ship. A third distinction: Queen Anne will be captained by Inger Klein Thorhauge, the first woman to hold that rank for Cunard. For all the new, some familiar traditions will remain, including proper high tea service and, naturally, an outpost of the Golden Lion pub pouring Cunard’s own microbrews. — Paul Brady

Seven Seas Grandeur

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Slated to launch in November 2023, Seven Seas Grandeur will be the sixth ship from Regent Seven Seas Cruises, a luxury line that T+L readers consistently say is one of their absolute favorites thanks to no-nonsense, all-inclusive pricing and fabulous suites. The newcomer will feature fresh takes on the elevated dining, shore excursions, and entertainment already found on ships such as Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Explorer , said Andrea DeMarco, the brand’s president. “ Grandeur is inspired by our rich heritage, but we’re reimagining signature restaurants and offering 15 exceptional suite categories to only 746 guests,” she explained. Among the no-expense-spared features of the new ship will be a multimillion-dollar, 1,600-piece art collection that counts among its trophies a handful of Picassos and a custom Fabergé Egg. (Fittingly, the ship’s godmother is Sarah Fabergé, the director of special projects for the jewelry house.) Grandeur ’s inaugural season will be in the Caribbean, but it will head for the Mediterranean in April before returning to the U.S. in August. — Elizabeth Rhodes

For Nature Lovers

Amboseli national park, kenya.

Courtesy of Angama

This 151-square-mile expanse, close to the border with Tanzania, is famed among safari insiders for its big-time wildlife: Amboseli has a well-earned reputation for elephant spotting, with massive herds roaming the dusty plains, along with all sorts of other charismatic creatures including cheetah, giraffe, and zebra. Camps and lodges surrounding the park tend to be basic, which is one reason the fall 2023 opening of the richly appointed Angama Amboseli is so exciting. The second? The 10-suite lodge is the first spinoff of the Angama Mara , a destination hotel that's among the best safari lodges in the world, according to T+L readers . The new property, located about 45 minutes driving from Amboseli National Park, on a private wildlife conservancy, will offer game drives as well as cultural experiences organized in partnership with local communities. Another draw: Angama Amboseli will have unparalleled views of the peak of nearby Mount Kilimanjaro, including from private patios attached to every suite. — Paul Brady

Aspen Mountain, Colorado

Jesse Hoffman/Courtesy of Aspen Snowmass

The legendary ski destination is getting its biggest makeover in four decades this season, with the opening of a new lift, a high-speed quad known as Hero’s that will make accessible a fresh 153 acres of fluffy powder. The project will increase the mountain’s skiable terrain by some 20 percent, adding more than a dozen new chutes, glades, and trails for intermediate and expert skiers. “The quad is a game-changer for Aspen,” said Maureen Poschman, a spokesperson for the Aspen Chamber Resort Association. “The new terrain is a big area, it’s high-altitude skiing, and it’s a bit of a hedge against climate change,” she noted. Not that you have to be a pro skier to find something to love in ever-evolving Aspen, which experienced an influx of residents the past few years . The cultural calendar is as packed as ever; Balenciaga and Hermès now have shops in the heart of town; and scene-y restaurants, including a Sant Ambroeus coffee bar, keep popping up. Where to stay? Mollie Aspen is the newest luxury hotel in town, slated to open in December with 68 rooms designed by Post Company, plus a rooftop plunge pool and terrace, right in the middle of it all. — Denny Lee

Big Sky, Montana

Mark Hartman

Just an hour from Yellowstone National Park, this wild, wide-open area offers heart-pumping activities such as fly fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and skiing at every turn. So, thankfully, a new retreat from hospitality brand One&Only is slated to bring some rest and relaxation to Big Sky in 2024. Situated between Lone Mountain and the Spanish Peaks, the 73-room Moonlight Basin will provide convenient access to 5,850 skiable acres, with a dedicated gondola connecting guests to Big Sky’s terrain, plus a private ski lodge and a Chenot spa. (The resort will also have 19 villas and 62 private residences.) The first U.S. outpost of One&Only, Moonlight Basin arrives a few years after another five-star resort, Montage Big Sky , which opened in 2021, with 139 rooms, six dining venues, a bowling alley, a huge spa, and, naturally, ski-in, ski-out access. — Alisha Prakash

Hokkaido, Japan

Courtesy of Club Med

Travelers are flocking back to Japan , but in the year ahead, they should look beyond Tokyo and Kyoto. Hokkaido, the northernmost of Japan’s main islands, has a sterling reputation for food — its biggest city, Sapporo, is famous for miso ramen — and its Shiretoko National Park is a natural wonder with excellent hiking and photogenic waterfalls. Hokkaido is also, insiders know, one of the world’s premier ski destinations thanks to simply phenomenal snow . The center of the action is the village of Niseko, which has plenty of hotels, homestays, and resorts — but has gotten a touch easier to visit thanks to the 2022 opening of Club Med Kiroro. The something-for-everyone property has two distinctive concepts, Club Med Kiroro Peak , for guests age 12 and older, and the new-in-2023 Club Med Kiroro Grand , a family-friendly alternative. These all-inclusives are helping to eliminate the intimidation factor when booking a Japanese ski week, by rolling up everything from accommodations and equipment rentals to off-the-mountain entertainment and kids' clubs. Another perk? Club Med Kiroro Grand will also have the brand’s first-ever Japanese onsen alongside other wellness facilities including soaking tubs and saunas. — Danielle Pointdujour

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Sven Musica/Courtesy of Madwaleni River Lodge - Babanango Game Reserve

This out-of-the-way South African province, sometimes shortened to KZN and located on the country’s eastern coast, is moving into the spotlight. “KwaZulu-Natal has two World Heritage Sites — the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the majestic uKhahlamba Drakensberg National Park — and is popular for its beaches, safari parks, green hills, and temperate weather,” said Julian Harrison , a safari expert and longtime member of T+L’s A-List. It’s also home to an ambitious rewilding project backed by the Emcakwini Community Trust , which began reintroducing once-endemic species including black rhino, cheetah, elephant, giraffe, and lion in 2018; today, it’s known as Babanango Game Reserve . Harrison also points to other conservation efforts, such as those underway at andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve , which is monitoring critically endangered Temminck’s ground pangolins. The newly opened Madwaleni River Lodge is the place to stay, said Raza Visram , another A-List expert. “The intimate lodge has 12 beautifully designed tents that overlook the White Umfolozi River,” he explained. There’s also Sala Beach House , an oceanfront escape on Thompson’s Bay that writer Heather Richardson detailed in T+L’s September 2023 issue . Coming soon in KZN will be The Homestead , a 12-suite eco-lodge in the province’s western Nambiti Game Reserve. — Samantha Falewée

Mababe, Botswana

Dana Allen/Courtesy of Wilderness

Long considered one of Africa’s most exclusive safari destinations, Botswana has a huge array of five-star lodges, operated by the likes of African Bush Camps, andBeyond, and Great Plains Conservation. But the most compelling new place to stay isn’t one with high thread count sheets or over-the-top amenities: Mokete, a new safari lodge from Wilderness , is worth the trip because it will only exist until 2026, when the operator pulls down the tents and carries away any sign the nine-suite escape was ever there. The temporary enclave will be situated east of the famed Okavango Delta, in the heart of a 124,000-acre tract known as the Mababe Concession, which has considerable populations of lion, elephant, and buffalo, plus a huge variety of birds. Wildlife watching is the thing here, with all-day game drives and guided nature walks. Mokete is all about an elemental connection with the outdoors, down to the design of the guest quarters: each tent will have a retractable roof so guests can stargaze from bed — and hear the calls of hyenas from the surrounding bush. — Paul Brady

New Zealand

It’s time to take it off your once-in-a-lifetime list and just go : earlier this year, Delta launched service from Los Angeles to Auckland, and United Airlines plans to start a San Francisco to Christchurch route in December. That’s on top of an existing Air New Zealand nonstop between Auckland and New York City that launched in 2022 . “Any time of year is a great time to visit,” said Sarah Farag , a member of T+L’s A-List and the Auckland-based owner and director of Southern Crossings , a luxury travel firm. “Our summer months are always popular,” Farag said of the December to March period, “but those who come at other times are well-rewarded with captivating colors during autumn harvest season, snow-capped adventures and spectacular stargazing in the winter, and fabulous fishing and hiking in spring.” There’s a growing number of enticing stays, including the new exclusive-use villas at Flockhill Lodge , set on a working sheep station, and the Clifftops at Anderson Cove , a tented camp above the Northland coast. Christchurch has recently seen the opening of two new boutique properties, the sleek, modern Mayfair and the artsy Observatory Hotel ; meanwhile the beloved Huka Lodge in Taupo is getting a makeover. If the outdoors are a priority, turn an eye to the North Island’s Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve , the country’s second, which was certified earlier this year, or the new Tom Doak–designed golf course which just opened at Te Arai Links . — Peter Terzian

For Beach Vibes

Anna maria island, florida.

Flavio Vallenari/Getty Images

Compared to some brand-name Florida destinations, this island south of Tampa Bay is way under the radar. But it's cultivated a loyal following, thanks to its no-high-rises shoreline, incredible sunsets, and small-town feel. Case in point: Anna Maria Island is a place where most people tool around by golf cart or beach cruiser, and almost all the sherbet-hued clapboard homes are vacation rentals. In an effort to keep things copacetic, the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, which works on the island, inked a partnership with Leave No Trace this summer, making Anna Maria the first destination in Florida to work with the nonprofit. Meanwhile, new developments fit right in with the vibe: Mello on the Beach , a hotel that opened in July, offers vibrant retro-style apartments on the Gulf of Mexico, while the villas of Joie Inn , which opened in 2021, still feel super-fresh. On the dining scene, the cocktail bar Doctor’s Office recently added a “dining room” to its string-lit outdoor garden, and coming soon to the island is Bohemian, a restaurant from repeat James Beard semifinalist Jeannie Pierola. Getting there has gotten easier thanks to growth at Sarasota-Bradenton International, which added nonstops to four new domestic destinations in 2023. A planned terminal expansion looks to be right-sized, too: the airport aims to add five gates next year. — Jennifer Salerno Yong

Coastal Campania, Italy

Courtesy of Hotel La Palma

It’s no wonder Campania — the southern Italian region that’s home to Amalfi, Capri, Positano, and Sorrento — is having a bit of a hotel boom: visitors have been flocking to this splashy coastal destination over the past few years. The renaissance kicked off with Il Capri Hotel , which opened on the island last spring, offering travelers a boutique option inside a neo-Gothic villa reminiscent of a Venetian palazzo. Next, Oetker Collection, the luxury hotel brand behind the celeb-loved Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes, France, debuted its first Italian hotel in June: the glamorous, 50-room Hotel La Palma is a fresh take on a property that originally opened in 1822. Then there’s the new Convento di Amalfi , a 52-room Anantara with a cliffside pool, set in a 13th-century Capuchin convent. Airlines have also taken note of the increased demand: American Airlines and Delta are both launching new routes to Naples next year, the former from Philadelphia, the latter from New York City. Lindblad Expeditions, meanwhile, will have its new Sea Cloud II in southern Italy this coming May, for an 11-day itinerary that will take guests to the ancient ruins of Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast’s most beautiful seaside villages, with a focus on Italian food and wine. —  Nina Ruggiero

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

The land of pura vida just keeps getting better, which is why Costa Rica was just named T+L’s 2024 Destination of the Year . Surfers can find their bliss at the new, boho-chic Sendero hotel, which opened in February in oceanside Nosara, on the Nicoya Peninsula. A few hours north, the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo has added the new Virador Beach Club, updated its golf course (while cutting water usage), and opened Wellness Shala, a spa that offers healing treatments with local ingredients like cacao, coconut, and volcanic mud. Nearby, the community of Las Catalinas has announced a new mixed-use space, La Rambla, which will promote spending time outside and car-free living. Forward-thinking tour operator Intrepid Travel has launched new trips that shine a light on the Terraba community, one of Costa Rica’s eight Indigenous groups. Meanwhile local outfitters such as UrriTrek are now offering guided hiking trips on the 174-mile Camino de Costa Rica , a trail connecting the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. — Samantha Falewée

The self-declared Nature Island, Dominica has been voted the best island in the Caribbean for the past two years in T+L’s World’s Best Awards , thanks in part to its serene tropical rain forests, enticing hot springs, and gushing waterfalls. There’s also an ever-growing number of resorts and hotels, such as the InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa , which opened this year, and the forthcoming Anichi Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection , and Tranquility Beach Resort — Curio — a Collection by Hilton . Also of note is the new 32-nautical-mile Waitukubuli Sea Trail, which takes sea-kayakers along the island's western coast from Scott’s Head to Capuchin; Soufrière Outdoor Centre can supply equipment, an itinerary, and a guide. And there’s another element to Dominica’s story that’s capturing the attention of travelers who care about sustainability. The volcanically active country plans to commission its first geothermal power plant in 2024, and in the meantime gets about a quarter of its overall power from hydroelectric sources. It’s also home to what T+L has called one of the world’s most eco-friendly resorts, Coulibri Ridge . — Annie Archer

Hawai’i Island

Courtesy of Rosewood Resorts

“We welcome mindful visitors to Hawai‘i Island,” said Ilihia Gionson, the public affairs officer of the Hawai'i Tourism Authority, in an interview with T+L. Commonly known as the Big Island, the destination is planning for a meaningful 2024, with the help of returning visitors. “Travelers have the opportunity to help mālama , or care for, our natural resources and support our community to ensure a regenerative model of tourism that is sustained for generations,” Gionson said. The theme of mālama is more significant than ever this year following the devastating fires that impacted both Hawai’i Island and Maui in 2023. Those looking to support relief efforts have many choices, including the Hawaii Red Cross, the Lāhainā Restoration Foundation, and more . Travelers ready to return might consider Kona Village, an iconic hotel that reopened in 2023 as a Rosewood Resort following its closure in 2011. “Each villa feels like your own little beach house,” Nicole Hollis, the interior designer of Kona Village, told T+L . Various events are on the island’s cultural calendar in the year ahead, including the Kona Brewers Festival in March and the Big Island Chocolate Festival in April. — Christine Burroni

Los Cabos, Mexico

Mariah Tyler/Travel + Leisure

With its rugged desert-meets-ocean landscape, 350 days a year of sun, and stunning five-star resorts, Los Cabos isn’t exactly an unexpected choice for a dreamy vacation. But 2024 promises to be a big year for the Baja California destination, thanks to all the new resorts coming to Cabo del Sol, the 1,800-acre community just east of Cabo San Lucas with two miles of beach and two 18-hole golf courses. Four Seasons Resort Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol and Soho House Beach Club are expected to open in the first part of 2024; Park Hyatt Los Cabos at Cabo Del Sol will join them by the end of the year. On the southern shore of the peninsula — and not far from the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal , a T+L reader fave — there’s even more happening: the resort community of Quivira Los Cabos will welcome the 120-room St. Regis Los Cabos at Quivira by late 2024, with access to 2.5 miles of beach and its own Jack Nicklaus golf course. — Danielle Pointdujour

Mallorca, Spain

Lara D'Agostino/Travel + Leisure

The sparkling waters, delicious food, and laid-back atmosphere are all still here — and Americans are loving United’s summertime nonstop service from Newark Liberty International. In the year ahead, though, they’ll be visiting for the booming luxury hotel scene, which is poised to help this island steal the spotlight from its western neighbor, Ibiza. One must-see is Son Bunyola , a Virgin Limited Edition retreat on Mallorca’s northwest coast, with three miles of beautiful coastline backed by olive groves. Sir Richard Branson first purchased the property in 1994, as T+L recently reported , but it only opened to guests this summer, with 26 rooms and suites, plus three villas. Nearby is The Lodge Mallorca , a Small Luxury Hotels of the World retreat that opened in May, which has wood-fired dining and extensive wellness programming. Then there’s the first hotel from 22-time Grand Slam champion and Majorcan Rafael Nadal, whose new Zel lifestyle brand has opened — what else? — Zel Mallorca , an approachable, beachy hotel in partnership with Meliá, the Spanish operator. Coming soon, said Clare Watkins, an expert in the Balearic Islands at Red Savannah , are more exciting properties: Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor will be a top-to-bottom refresh of a century-old hotel, while Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, Mallorca, will have 131 rooms, plus 44 suites and nine bungalows, overlooking the sea just outside Palma. — Danielle Pointdujour

For Adventurous Travelers 

Alula, saudi arabia.

Didier Marti/Getty Images

Of all the ambitious tourism developments in Saudi Arabia, AlUla may be the most enchanting, which may explain why Qatar Airways recently launched new flights to the destination from its Doha hub. This huge sweep of red rocks and desert in the country’s northwest is home to Hegra, a 2,000-year-old archeological site filled with soaring tombs carved by the Nabataean civilization, the same one that built Petra, in modern-day Jordan. After touring ancient history, visitors can retreat to decadent contemporary hotels, including a forthcoming 36-room luxury resort at Hegra that will sensitively incorporate parts of an old railway station and fort. A short drive away, in AlUla’s Old Town, the contrast of old and new continues; the new 30-room eco-hotel Dar Tantora , for example, eschews electricity in favor of candlelight. In the year ahead, more fresh thinking will touch down in AlUla, courtesy of Wadi AlFann, or Valley of the Arts, a permanent showcase of works from big-name international artists. The best way to see it might be from on high, duringca April’s “AlUla Skies” festival, when helicopters and hot air balloons will soar above Instagram-worthy monuments. —  Jacqui Gifford

Bahia, Brazil

Marta Tucci

This coastal state, situated between the Amazon and Rio de Janeiro, is the sort of place most Americans never quite get to — and that’s a shame. Its coastline offers some of the most mythical surf-and-sand spots in the world, including Itacaré, which is home to the community-minded Barracuda Hotel & Villas , and the boho-chic enclave of Trancoso, a place that “first captured the imagination of the international creative set back in the 1980s,” as T+L reported in the September 2023 issue . “The beaches are some of the most picturesque in Brazil,” said Paul Irvine , an expert in the country and member of T+L’s A-List. But, he added, there’s more to Bahia than the coast. “We’ve started sending our more adventurous clients to the Chapada Diamantina National Park ,” he said, “which has its own vibrant, off-grid hippy culture.” While high-end hotels in the area are in short supply, more villa accommodations are popping up all the time. One thing to keep in mind for 2024: Brazil stopped requiring a visa for U.S. citizens back in 2019, but the country’s tourism officials have said that the mandate will return on Jan. 10, though further details on how to apply and any fees have yet to be announced. — Paul Brady

Northern Pakistan

Courtesy of Intrepid Travel

The northern reaches of this South Asian nation have a growing profile in the adventure-travel world, thanks to striking topography, high-elevation lakes, and precipitous peaks. Consider that, in 2023, Intrepid Travel launched a 12-day women-only expedition to the region, a first for the tour operator, which has similar trips in places such as Jordan, India, and Morocco. Intrepid will return in 2024 — with departures in May, September, and October — taking women to ancient villages, alpine lakes, and historic forts; travelers will have ample opportunity to meet with locals in areas that would be off-limits if men were part of the group, according to Intrepid. Other outfitters are heading to Northern Pakistan as well. Wild Frontiers will debut a brand-new, 14-day walking adventure that will no doubt challenge the bodies and minds of those who are up for it, with several full-day hikes, some above 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). The payoff comes in the form of staggeringly beautiful landscapes — not to mention the chance to make connections with people you meet along the way and see historic gems in Islamabad, the trip’s jumping off point. — Alisha Prakash

Peru's Trekking Routes

In a country where all roads seemingly lead to spectacular scenery and historic finds, there’s much more to explore beyond majestic Machu Picchu. These days, travelers have more options for getting off familiar routes thanks to the efforts of companies such as Alpaca Expeditions , an Indigenous-owned outfitter that will lead its first-ever, all-women hiking trip on the Salkantay Trail in 2024. Operated by women — including guides, porters, drivers, chefs, and other staff — for women, the seven-day adventure will include stays high in the Andes and cultural experiences such as cooking classes and farm visits that aren’t typical on more popular Inca Trail trips. Meanwhile the tour operator Intrepid Travel debuted in 2023 a 12-day expedition on the Great Inca Road in northern Peru. Starting in Huaraz and culminating at the Inca site of Huanuco Pampa, the trek will immerse hikers in this less-visited region’s nature and culture, including plentiful archeological sites. — Alisha Prakash

South Australia

ROBERT LANG/Courtesy of South Australia Tourism Commission

Visitors to this low-key state may feel like they’re in on a big-time secret with all that’s happening lately. The biggest news may be Australia’s new national park, Nilpe­na Ediacara , which opened in April and gives travelers a look at the oldest known fossils on the planet. “They’re about 550 million years old,” Mary L. Droser, an American paleontologist, explained in a recent interview with T+L . Across South Australia’s wine country, meanwhile, hotels such as Le Mas Barossa , Sequoia Lodge , and The Vineyard McLaren Vale are gateways to the hundreds of vineyards and cellar doors just outside of Adelaide, the state capital. “South Australia is known as the wine state for a reason,” said Tim Duval, the winemaker at John Duval Wines . Travelers can learn about small-batch wineries (including Duval’s) at Artisans of Barossa ; sample eco-conscious shiraz at Bird in Hand ; and enjoy a tasting in The Cube, a five-story structure fashioned after an unfinished Rubik’s Cube, at d’Arenberg . Another notable stay can be found on Kangaroo Island, where the famed Southern Ocean Lodge is slated to reopen in December after the disastrous bushfires of 2020. — Samantha Lauriello

Tatiana Kashko/Getty Images

This small South Asian island nation has big things on offer. “You can cover a lot of ground in two weeks, with loads of variety in the landscapes, from gorgeous beaches to lush jungles to high mountains to historic cities,” said Catherine Heald, co-founder and CEO of Remote Lands, a luxury travel firm. This year, the tea company Dilmah opened two boutique stays under its Reverie brand, Kayaam House and Ahu Bay ; Sri Lankan–owned hotel group Uga is debuting Uga Riva in Negombo this November; and for foodies, Red Savannah recently rolled out a culinary tour of Sri Lanka. Political unrest in 2022 took the destination off the table for many travelers, acknowledged Rachel Cooper , a South Asia travel expert at Red Savannah. But, she added, "the new government has introduced measures to protect and encourage a positive traveler experience throughout the country.” — Susmita Baral

Where to Go in 2024