Located just 22 km from Kannur, Thalassery holds great historical significance. This beautiful coastal city of Thalassery is also known as The Paris of Kerala and Heritage City.
The Portuguese saw Thalassery as a hub for spice export and built churches and architecture of Portuguese resemblance.
Thalassery was developed as a strategically important area and holds immense importance even today. If you come to visit here, you can still witness cannons stationed at piers and forts. On that note, let us explore some of the vistas and historical locations of this glorious city. For a better experience, you can book hotels online and have a good time touring here without having to worry about the accommodation.
Thalassery Fort
Built by the British East India Company, this overarching fort was a stronghold for the then British Government to monitor its port operations and to assert dominance over the neighbouring Portuguese occupying Màhe. Located near the Thalassery bus stand, the fort consists of large open courtyards and high-rising walls to keep the intruders away. You will see the construction beautifully made out of quicklime with meticulously carved doors leading to secret tunnels. Besides, you can visit the Jagannathan temple, The Holy Rosary church and the Sardar mosque located nearby the fort on your getaway.
Gundert Bungalow
Situated on the outer areas of Thalassery, Pallikunnu, The Gundert Bungalow is a famous tourist spot also known as the domicile of the famous German missionary and scholar, Doctor Herman Gundert. The architecture is similar to ancient colonial bungalows and comprises big doors, large hallways and several rooms with fireplaces, dining areas and servant quarters. This giant mansion, now converted into a museum, holds immense historical value. Herman Gundert wrote the first Malayalam dictionary here in 1859 and also published the first-ever Malayalam newspaper, Rajyasamacharam. He also published Paschimodayam in this splendid location and established a Catholic school here during his stay.
Sea View Park Thalassery
If you want an amazing view of the sea and its natural beauty, then Sea View Park is the perfect place to explore. Situated in Pellissery, you can witness the open sea, jaw-dropping sunsets and a small nature park on paying a small admission fee. You can also chill here, take part in sports and have a nice meal at the food court under the convenience of the same roof. Since there are no accommodations here for the night stay, you can book hotels online nearby to relax from the trip.
Muzhappilangad Beach
One of the most underrated places in Thalassery is Muzhappilangad beach. Situated close to NH-66 between Kannur and Thalassery, this is one of the longest beach drives in Asia. It is a 5.5 km long curved beach bordered by black rocks on the sides. You can enjoy the beauty of the ocean from this location. Blue Mussels inhabit the rocks, a local delicacy, with the birds adding a touch of colour to the gorgeous views. The beach hosts a festival in April each year where you can enjoy local cultural performances along with devouring good delicacies in the food courts. During the winter, you can witness many species of birds migrating here, making it a paradisal land for the bird-watchers. If you love adventure, you can take part in activities such as paragliding and boat tours to make your trip memorable.
Odathi Palli (Odathil Mosque)
With a history of two decades, the Odathil Mosque was constructed by Moosa Kakka in 1806. He was a prominent trader of the Keyi family favoured by the Dutch East India Company. The name is derived from the word ‘Odam’ meaning garden and therefore Odathil palli came to be known as the ‘garden mosque’. The Odathil mosque has a unique architecture with its structure similar to the ancient temples of Kerala. Besides, the mosque has an exquisite look and is made with copper sheets and pillars to support the structures. The doors are made with teak wood and gold ornaments are etched inside the mosque. The mosque is now a sheer depiction of architectural brilliance and is open to everyone. This place also has a ‘kabristan’ that holds the remains of the deceased members of the Keyi family.
While these are some of the best places to see in Thalassery, there is a lot more to explore. All you need to do is pack your bags and set out for the journey. Also, don’t forget to book your hotels online based on your preferences and budget options.