What is the best time to visit Kozhikode?
The ideal time to plan your visit to Kozhikode is during the winter months, spanning from November to February. This period offers pleasant and mild weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from approximately 22°C to 32°C. The comfortable climate is perfect for exploring the mosques and hitting the sandy sunbed.
Kozhikode's winter is characterised by lower humidity levels and minimal rainfall, providing an excellent opportunity to enjoy the city's beaches, backwaters, and historical sites without the discomfort of excessive heat or monsoon showers.
Visiting in December? Make sure to read our article about visiting Kerala in December
Additionally, the post-monsoon season, from September to October, is another great time to visit Kozhikode. During this period, the rainfall subsides, and the landscape becomes lush and green, creating a scenic backdrop for your travels.
Find out more about the best time to visit India.
How many days do you need in Kozhikode?
For a comprehensive experience of the Kozhikode, you should only need 2 to 3 days. During this time, you can explore the historical sites such as the Kozhikode Beach, Mananchira Square, and the Tali Temple. You can also visit Kappad Beach, where Vasco da Gama first set foot in India. Additionally, take some time to explore the vibrant markets like SM Street and indulge in the delicious local cuisine that Kozhikode is famous for.
If you wish to delve deeper into the city's cultural heritage and spend more time enjoying the serene backwaters and natural beauty, you may want to extend your stay by a couple of days. This will allow you to take leisurely boat rides along the backwaters and explore nearby attractions such as the Beypore Fort and Thusharagiri Waterfalls.
Rough Guides tip: Planning a trip to India? Perhaps our local experts in India can help you!
How to get here
By plane
Kozhikode’s international airport, at Karippur, 23km south of the city, is primarily a gateway for emigrant workers flying to and from the Gulf, but also has direct flights to many other Indian cities.
By train
The railway station, near the centre of town, is served by coastal expresses, slower passenger trains and superfast express trains to and from Goa, Mumbai, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram.
By bus
There are three bus stands. Government-run services pull in at the KSRTC bus stand, on Mavoor Rd (aka Indira Gandhi Rd).
Private long-distance – mainly overnight – buses stop at the New Moffussil private stand, 500m away on the other side of Mavoor Rd.
The Palayam bus stand, off MM Ali Road, just serves the city.
Find out the best ways to get to India.