Thalassery, located in the northern part of Kerala, India, is a vibrant town known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is famous for its traditional cuisine, particularly its unique style of biryani and snacks like the Thalassery cake. The town has a significant historical backdrop with colonial architecture and was a major port during the British era. Thalassery is also renowned for its contributions to literature and arts, and it serves as a key center for the traditional performing art form of Theyyam. The region’s lush landscapes and coastal beauty add to its charm, making it a noteworthy destination in Kerala.
1. Thalassey Fort
Thalassery Fort was built by the British East India Company in 1708 for trade and defense purposes. It played a crucial role during the British colonial period as a major trading post and as a strategic point for controlling the Malabar Coast. The fort’s location offered a commanding view of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding area, which was advantageous for monitoring and protecting maritime routes. This fort stands as a testament to the colonial period’s architectural and strategic significance.
The fort’s robust walls and watchtowers are designed to withstand attacks and provide strategic vantage points. One of the notable features of the fort is its clock tower, which has become an iconic landmark. The fort complex includes dungeons and ramparts, which were used for defensive purposes and as a prison.
Today, Thalassery Fort is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India and is a well-preserved historical site. Visitors can explore its various features, including the old prison cells, the entrance gate, and the scenic views from the ramparts. The fort’s location near the coast provides a picturesque setting, making it a popular spot for tourists and history enthusiasts.
In summary, Thalassery Fort is a significant historical monument that offers a glimpse into the colonial era and the strategic importance of the region. Its architectural features and historical background make it a key attraction in Kerala, reflecting both the cultural and historical richness of Thalassery.
How to reach:
Nearest Railway station: Thalassery Railway Station (5 min (1.1 km) via Thalassery – Mysore Rd)
Nearest Bus Stand: Thalassery Bus Stand (5 min (1.1 km) via Old T C Rd and OV Rd/Thalassery – Mysore Rd)
Nearest Airport : Kannur Airport (approximately 23 kilometers)
2. Thalassery Sea Bridge
The Thalassery Sea Bridge, also known as the Thalassery Bridge, is an iconic infrastructure landmark in Thalassery, Kerala, India. This bridge, spanning across the Arabian Sea, connects the town of Thalassery to nearby regions, enhancing connectivity and contributing to the local economy. The Thalassery Sea Bridge was built by the British East India Company during the colonial period. Construction began in the late 19th century and was completed in 1900. The bridge was designed to enhance connectivity and facilitate trade and transportation along the Malabar Coast. Its construction reflects the British emphasis on developing infrastructure to support economic activities and strategic interests in the region.
The bridge features a distinctive design that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. Its structure allows for smooth vehicular movement while providing a scenic view of the surrounding sea and coastline. The bridge offers stunning vistas of the Arabian Sea and the coastal landscape. It is a popular spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the natural light enhances the bridge’s visual appeal.
The bridge’s striking appearance against the backdrop of the sea makes it a favorite subject for photographers. The views from the bridge are particularly captivating at different times of the day. The Thalassery Sea Bridge is often included in tourist itineraries due to its scenic beauty and historical significance. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the bridge and take in the panoramic sea views. The area around the bridge is lively with local markets and eateries, where visitors can experience traditional Kerala cuisine and culture.
The Thalassery Sea Bridge is easily accessible from the town of Thalassery. It is well-connected by local roads and transportation services. The surrounding areas are also well-developed, making it a convenient destination for tourists and locals alike.
How to reach:
Nearest Railway station: Thalassery Railway Station (7 min (1.4 km) via Thalassery – Mysore Rd)
Nearest Bus Stand: Thalassery Bus Stand (7 min (1.4 km) via OV Rd/Thalassery – Mysore Rd)
Nearest Airport : Kannur Airport (49 min (26.8 km) via Thaze Chovva Mattannur Rd and Thalassery – Irikkur Rd)
3. Dharmadam Beach Park
Dharmadam Beach is a peaceful and beautiful beach located near Thalassery in Kerala, India. Known for its tranquil ambiance and natural beauty, it is an ideal spot for relaxation and leisurely activities. The beach is renowned for its scenic landscape, featuring golden sands, gentle waves, and lush greenery. Its relatively untouched and less crowded setting makes it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Dharmadam Beach is suitable for a range of activities, including sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The calm waters and scenic surroundings create a peaceful environment for visitors to unwind. The beach area is relatively quiet, with minimal commercial development, which helps preserve its natural appeal. Nearby, visitors can enjoy local Kerala cuisine at small eateries or relax in the nearby natural settings.
How to reach:
Nearest Railway station: Thalassery Railway Station (13 min (5.7 km) via Goods Shed Road and Panvel – Kochi – Kanyakumari Hwy)
Nearest Bus Stand: Thalassery Bus Stand (16 min (6.4 km) via Goods Shed Road and Panvel – Kochi – Kanyakumari Hwy)
Nearest Airport : Kannur Airport (46 min (28.4 km) via Thalassery – Irikkur Rd)
4. Dharmadam Island
Dharmadam Island is located off the coast of Dharmadam Beach, which is near Thalassery in the Kannur district of Kerala, India. The island is situated in the Arabian Sea, approximately 10 kilometers from Thalassery. At low tide it is possible to walk across the sea to the island. Permission is required to enter this privately owned island.
Dharmadam Island (Pachathurut) is a 2 hectare island in Kannur district of Kerala. This island full of coconut trees and dense vegetation can be seen from Muzhappilangad beach. Dharmadam Island is an ideal destination for adventure travel. Formerly known as Dharmapatnam, Dharmadam was a Buddhist center. This former private property was taken over by the Kerala government. Activities have been started to attract tourists here.
How to reach:
Reach Dharmadam Beach
Nearest Railway station: Thalassery Railway Station (13 min (5.7 km) via Goods Shed Road and Panvel – Kochi – Kanyakumari Hwy)
Nearest Bus Stand: Thalassery Bus Stand (16 min (6.4 km) via Goods Shed Road and Panvel – Kochi – Kanyakumari Hwy)
Nearest Airport : Kannur Airport (46 min (28.4 km) via Thalassery – Irikkur Rd)
4. Muzhappilangad Drive in Beach
Muzhapillangad beach is the famous drive in beach where one can drive along the entire length. This beach is calm and serene. A long drive in this beach gives wonderful experience. One can walk on the shore during low tides. Beach festival is celebrated every year in the month of April.
Muzhappilangad beach is notable for its sand which allows vehicles to drive. This makes it popular for leisurely drives along the water’s edge. It is an experience that attracts both locals and tourists who enjoy the novelty of driving on the beach. The wide stretch of sand is perfect for activities like beach games, picnicking and leisure walks.The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees which adds to its natural appeal. The clear blue water and golden sand, combined with the backdrop of rolling hills, create a beautiful setting perfect for relaxation and photography. Muzhapilangad beach is famous for various water sports. Activities like parasailing, jet skiing and surfing are popular among adventure lovers. Relatively calm waters and favorable conditions make it an ideal location for these activities
How to reach:
Nearest Railway station: Thalassery Railway Station (19 min (8.9 km) via Panvel – Kochi – Kanyakumari Hwy)
Nearest Bus Stand: Thalassery Bus Stand (16 min (21 min (9.6 km) via Panvel – Kochi – Kanyakumari Hwy)
Nearest Airport : Kannur Airport (51 min (27.6 km) via Thaze Chovva Mattannur Rd)
5. Gundert Bungalow
Gundert Bungalow, located in Thalassery, Kerala, is a historic residence that holds significant cultural and historical importance. Gundert Bungalow was built by Hermann GundertThe bungalow is named after Hermann Gundert, a German missionary and scholar who lived there in the 19th century. Gundert is renowned for his work in Malayalam linguistics and literature, including compiling the first Malayalam-English dictionary.
The bungalow showcases colonial-style architecture, characterized by its spacious verandas, high ceilings, and expansive rooms. The design reflects the era of its construction and the influence of British colonial aesthetics.
Today, Gundert Bungalow functions as a museum and cultural center. It houses exhibits related to Gundert’s life, his contributions to Malayalam literature, and the history of the region. The bungalow contains a library with a collection of rare books and manuscripts, further highlighting Gundert’s scholarly contributions. The bungalow has been preserved to reflect the historical and cultural context of Gundert’s time, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
Visiting Hours: Visiting time is from 10 am to 4.30 pm every day. Monday is off
How to reach:
Nearest Railway station: Thalassery Railway Station (7 min (2.7 km) via Goods Shed Road)
Nearest Bus Stand: Thalassery Bus Stand (10 min (3.4 km) via Goods Shed Road)
Nearest Airport : Kannur Airport (42 min (23.7 km) via Thaze Chovva Mattannur Rd and Thalassery – Irikkur Rd)
6. Overbury’s Folly
Overbury’s Folly is located on a hilltop in Thalassery, in the Kannur district of Kerala, India. Specifically, it sits in the Ayyankunnu area, which is approximately 10 kilometers from the town center of Thalassery. The folly is situated at an elevation that provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Arabian Sea in the distance. Overbury’s Folly stands as a testament to the architectural experimentation of the colonial era and the personal tastes of British officials stationed in India. It continues to be a point of interest for those exploring colonial-era architecture and history in Kerala. Overbury’s Folly was built by Henry Overbury as a personal retreat and viewpoint, showcasing unique architectural features and reflecting the colonial era’s architectural diversity.
Overbury’s Folly was built by Henry Overbury, who was a British resident in Thalassery during the colonial period. Overbury was a British official who served as the resident of the Malabar region, which was part of British India. The folly was constructed in the early 19th century, around 1860, reflecting Overbury’s personal taste and architectural interests. It was primarily intended as a personal retreat and a viewpoint. The structure allowed Overbury to enjoy expansive views of the surrounding landscape and the Arabian Sea. The folly features a distinctive mix of Gothic and Moorish architectural elements, which was somewhat unusual for the time. This eclectic style was a personal choice, reflecting the colonial fascination with diverse architectural forms.
How to reach:
Nearest Railway station: Thalassery Railway Station (6 min (1.5 km) via Kayyath Road)
Nearest Bus Stand: Thalassery Bus Stand (7 min (1.4 km) via MG Rd)
Nearest Airport : Kannur Airport (51 min (28.0 km) via Thalassery – Mysore Rd)
7. Odathil Mosque
Odathil Palli (Odathil Mosque) is a 200-year-old mosque in Thalassery, a city in Kerala, southern India. This church was built in 1806.
Odathil Church is a place visited by tourists and pilgrims. The typical Kerala architecture is the main attraction of Odathil Palli, which is located in the heart of Thalassery. The crown on the roof is made of gold. The mosque is still used for worship today. The mosque has three main entrances. The first one is through the main gate near Thalassery old bus stand. The next is through Logans Road and the third is the entrance through the courtyard of the building connected to OV Road.
Located in the heart of Thalassery, the 200 year old Odatil Church and Garden Mosque was built by Moosakaka, contractor of the East India Company, born in Kei family of Thalassery. Built on the pattern of ancient Hindu temples, the site of the Odatil Church was formerly a sugarcane plantation of the Dutch. Odam means garden in Malayalam. Because it was built in Odat, the mosque came to be known as Odatli Palli. The church had a copper plate roof and a minor gold dome. All Muslims can pray. In the Kabaristan (cemetery adjacent to the mosque) only the bodies of those related to Keyes were buried.
Odathil Mosque is open 24 hours. A mosque without domes or minarets is not open to non-Muslims.
How to reach:
Nearest Railway station: Thalassery Railway Station (5 min (1.2 km) via Thalassery – Mysore Rd)
Nearest Bus Stand: Thalassery Bus Stand (6 min (1.1 km) via Old T C Rd and OV Rd/Thalassery – Mysore Rd)
Nearest Airport : Kannur Airport (46 min (25.2 km) via Thaze Chovva Mattannur Rd and Thalassery – Irikkur Rd)
8. Thiruvangad Sree Ramaswami Temple
Thiruvangad Sri Ramaswamy Temple is an important Hindu shrine in Thalassery and is one of the five major temples dedicated to Lord Rama in Kerala. The temple is commonly known as Brass Pagoda because of the copper sheet on the roof of the temple. A part of the temple was damaged by the forces of Tipu Sultan in the 18th century, but the temple is believed to have been saved from destruction. This temple was one of the outposts of Thalassery Fort in the 18th century.
Thiruvangadu Sri Ramaswamy Temple is situated on an elevated site with an area of 2.75 hectares. Another attraction of this temple is the Temple pool known as Chira spread over one hectare. Thiruvangad Sri Ramaswamy Temple in Thalassery was established by the local Namboothiri (Brahmin) community. The exact details of the construction and its founders are not well documented, but the origin of the temple is closely related to the efforts of this community in the 12th century.
The annual festival at the Thiruvangad Sri Ramaswamy temple starts on Vishu day at Medum and lasts for seven days.
Nearest Railway station: Thalassery Railway Station (7 min (1.8 km) via Town Hall Rd)
Nearest Bus Stand: Thalassery Bus Stand (6 min (1.3 km) via Thalassery- Kodiyeri Rd)
Nearest Airport : Kannur Airport (45 min (25.7 km) via Thaze Chovva Mattannur Rd)
9. Jagannath Temple, Thalassery
Thalassery Jagannath Temple is a famous Shiva temple in Kannur district of Kerala. 1908- On February 13, Sree Narayana Guru performed the consecration of this temple. The main deity is Lord Shiva. The temple is made in the style of Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha. The idol is made of Panchaloha by famous sculptor Thavarali. This temple is known for its unique architectural style and vibrant festivals, particularly the annual Jagannatha Rath Yatra, which attracts many devotees.
The Jagannath temple in Thalassery, founded by the Guru, is open to all devotees irrespective of caste and creed. Visitors are welcome to participate in the rituals and festivals of the temple while respecting local customs and dress patterns. A statue of the guru was included in the temple complex in 1927.
The annual festival at the Jaganatha Temple in Thalassery is the Jagannatha Rath Yatra, typically held in the Malayalam month of Meenam (March-April). During the annual Jagannatha Rath Yatra at Jaganatha Temple in Thalassery, typically around 2 to 4 elephants participate in the procession. The exact number can vary each year based on the festival’s scale and arrangements.
The Jagannath Temple in Thalassery has a remarkable temple pond measuring about 0.5 to 1 acre.The pond is an integral part of the temple complex and is used for ritual purification and various ritual activities. Apart from this, the temple complex also houses a museum dedicated to the works of Sree Narayana Guru
Temple Timings: 04.30 am to 12.30 pm 05.00 pm to 08.00 pm
Nearest Railway station: (Jagannath Temple Gate Railway Station, Not all trains has stop) Thalassery Railway Station (10 min (3.5 km) via Mukund Maller Road and Panvel – Kochi – Kanyakumari Hwy)
Nearest Bus Stand: Thalassery Bus Stand (9 min (3.0 km) via Panvel – Kochi – Kanyakumari Hwy)
Nearest Airport : Kannur Airport (50 min (27.9 km) via Thalassery – Irikkur Rd)
10. Sea View Park, Thalassery
Sea View Park in Thalassery is one of the best places to enjoy the beauty of the Arabian Sea and enjoying the sunset. The park is Located on the side of the Thalassery-Kannur National Highway, the park has a play area for children and a restaurant area to experience the unique flavors of Thalassery. Beyond the natural beauty, Sea View Park serves as a hub for community activities. The park hosts various local events and cultural festivals. Families, tourists and locals alike gather here to celebrate festivals, enjoy picnics or enjoy the beauty of the sunset over the sea.
The statue of Raghavan Master, the esteemed playback singer, is located at Sea View Park in Thalassery. This statue pays tribute to his significant contributions to the Malayalam music industry and honors his legacy in his hometown.
Sea View Park in Thalassery does not have an entry fee and open 10 am to 9 pm every day.
Nearest Railway station: Thalassery Railway Station (16 min (1.7 km) via Panvel – Kochi – Kanyakumari Hwy)
Nearest Bus Stand: Thalassery Bus Stand (6 min (1.6 km) via Panvel – Kochi – Kanyakumari Hwy)
Nearest Airport : Kannur Airport (42 min (23.8 km) via Thaze Chovva Mattannur Rd and Thalassery – Irikkur Rd)
