THOTTADA
Are you tired of the daily grind and looking for a place to unwind? Look no further than Thottada, the ultimate destination for relaxation and adventure. Nestled in the stunning state of Kerala, this serene village is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Picture yourself lounging on the beach with a fresh coconut in hand, or exploring the lush greenery of Thottada's countryside. With its warm climate and friendly locals, it's no wonder Thottada has become a favorite spot for tourists from all over the world.
But don't let its laid-back atmosphere fool you - Thottada has plenty of excitement to offer too. From water sports like surfing and kayaking to hiking through scenic trails, there's something for everyone here.
And let's not forget about the food! Thottada is known for its delicious seafood and spicy curries that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight. Plus, with affordable prices and generous portions, you won't have to worry about breaking the bank.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head over to Thottada today. You won't regret it - we promise!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Thottada
- How to Reach and getting around Thottada
- Weather of Thottada
- Places to Visit in Thottada
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Thottada
- Best areas for Accommodation in Thottada
- Shopping in Thottada
- Nightlife in Thottada
- Festivals and Events in Thottada
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Thottada
- FAQs
History and Culture of Thottada
Thottada is a small village located in the Kannur district of Kerala, India. The history of Thottada dates back to the 15th century when it was ruled by the Kolathiri Rajas. Kolathiries were known for their love for art and culture which can still be witnessed in the village's traditions today.
The name "Thottada" comes from the Malayalam word "thottam," which means a garden. It is said that Thottada was once a lush green forest full of medicinal plants and herbs. Thottada is still known for its Ayurvedic treatments and is a popular destination for tourists seeking rejuvenation.
The village is also famous for its beaches which attract visitors from all over the world. The Thottada beach is one of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in Kerala. Tourists can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and even surfing on this beach.
The people of Thottada are friendly and hospitable. They celebrate many festivals throughout the year, including Onam, Vishu, and Navratri. The local cuisine is also something to look forward to with mouth-watering dishes like appam, puttu, and fish curry.
In recent years, Thottada has become a hub for homestays where tourists can experience the local way of life firsthand. Homestays are an excellent way to immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying comfortable accommodation.
Overall, Thottada is a hidden gem that should not be missed if you are visiting Kerala. Its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning beaches, delicious food, and warm people make it an unforgettable destination.
How to Reach and getting around Thottada
Thottada is a serene and tranquil beach destination located in the Kannur district of Kerala, India. It is a perfect place to rejuvenate and unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you're planning to visit Thottada, here are some options on how to reach there:
By Air: The nearest airport to Thottada is Calicut International Airport, which is approximately 95 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thottada.
By Train: Kannur Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Thottada, located about 10 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach Thottada.
By Road: If you're traveling from nearby cities like Mangalore or Kannur, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Thottada. The roads are well-maintained and the journey is quite scenic.
Self-Drive: If you're an adventure enthusiast and love driving, you can rent a car or bike from nearby cities and drive your way to Thottada. The roads are easy to navigate and offer breathtaking views of the sea.
Cycling: For those who prefer eco-friendly modes of travel, cycling is an excellent option. You can rent a bicycle from nearby cities like Kannur or Payyannur and cycle your way through the lush green countryside to reach Thottada.
In conclusion, reaching Thottada is quite easy as it is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Whether you're traveling solo or with family/friends, there's an option that suits everyone's preferences and budget. So pack your bags and head over for an unforgettable beach experience!
Weather of Thottada
Extreme Winters
Mild Winters
Hot + DryHot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantThottada experiences a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The monsoon season in Thottada starts from June and lasts till September, causing heavy rainfall and strong winds. This period is not suitable for visiting the place as the weather can be unpredictable, and some activities may be closed due to safety concerns.
The best time to visit Thottada is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, with cool breezes blowing across the town. The temperature during this time ranges between 20-30 degrees Celsius, making it perfect for outdoor activities like sightseeing, beach walks, and water sports. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque beauty of Thottada during this period as the sky remains clear with golden sunshine sparkling over the sea.
April and May are also good months to visit Thottada if you do not mind a little heat. During these months, the temperature can go up to 35 degrees Celsius, but it is bearable as there is enough breeze blowing in from the sea. If you are planning your trip during these months, it's important to stay hydrated and carry sunscreen with you.
To sum up, October to March are the best months to visit Thottada due to pleasant weather conditions. However, April and May can also be considered if you don't mind a little heat. It's essential to plan your trip according to your preference and convenience while keeping in mind these weather conditions for a comfortable stay in Thottada.
Places to Visit in Thottada
Thottada Beach: Thottada Beach is a picturesque beach located in the Kannur district of Kerala. The beach is known for its serene atmosphere and crystal-clear waters. It is an ideal spot for relaxing, sunbathing, and swimming.
Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach: Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach is the only drive-in beach in India and is located just 6 km away from Thottada. The beach stretches over 4 km, making it a perfect spot for long drives and picnics.
Pazhassi Dam: Pazhassi Dam is a popular picnic spot located near the foothills of Western Ghats, around 25 km from Thottada. The dam offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests.
Arakkal Museum: Arakkal Museum is a historical museum located in Kannur, around 7 km from Thottada. The museum houses artifacts related to the Arakkal dynasty, which ruled over Kannur for several centuries.
St. Angelo Fort: St. Angelo Fort is a historical fort located in Kannur, around 8 km from Thottada. The fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
Parassinikadavu Snake Park: Parassinikadavu Snake Park is a popular tourist attraction located just 12 km from Thottada. The park has a large collection of snakes, including rare species like King Cobra.
Ezhimala Hill: Ezhimala Hill is a hill station located around 25 km from Thottada. The hill offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and surrounding landscapes.
Meenkunnu Beach: Meenkunnu Beach is another beautiful beach located just 10 km from Thottada. The beach offers stunning views of the sunset and has several options for water sports.
Payyambalam Beach: Payyambalam Beach is a serene beach located just 8 km from Thottada on the outskirts of Kannur town. The beach has several amenities like children's play area, jogging track, and food stalls.
10.Kannur Lighthouse: Kannur Lighthouse is another popular tourist attraction located in Kannur town, around 7 km from Thottada. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and surrounding landscapes.
Heritage Places
Relaxing Retreats
Beaches
Hilly Regions
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Thottada
Best areas for accommodation in Thottada
Thottada, a serene beach town located in Kannur district of Kerala, is an ideal vacation spot for those seeking a peaceful getaway. The town is known for its pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage. If you're planning to visit Thottada, finding the right accommodation can make all the difference in your experience.
Best areas for accommodation in Thottada:
Thottada Beach: This area is perfect for beach lovers as it offers direct access to the beach. There are several resorts and homestays located here that offer stunning views of the sea.
Muzhappilangad Beach: This area is known for its long stretch of drive-in beach and is popular among tourists who want to experience driving on the sand. There are several budget hotels and homestays located here.
Kannur City: If you want to explore the city's rich cultural heritage, Kannur City is the perfect place to stay. There are several hotels and homestays located here that offer easy access to the city's top attractions.
Properties for accommodation in Thottada:
Luxury: Seashell Haris Beach Home - This luxurious resort offers spacious rooms with modern amenities and direct access to Thottada Beach.
Budget: Malabar Ocean Front Resort & Spa - This budget-friendly resort offers comfortable rooms with sea views and easy access to Muzhappilangad Beach.
Hostel: Zostel Kannur - This backpacker hostel offers dormitory-style accommodation with shared bathrooms and a common kitchen. It is located in Kannur City, offering easy access to the city's top attractions at an affordable price point.
Shopping in Thottada
Thottada is a small village in the Kannur district of Kerala, India. It is known for its serene beaches, lush greenery, and rich cultural heritage. Shopping in Thottada can be a unique experience as it offers a wide range of traditional and modern items.
Things to buy
- Handicrafts: Thottada is famous for its exquisite handicrafts made by skilled artisans. You can find beautifully crafted wooden toys, sculptures, and furniture.
- Spices: Kerala is known as the Land of Spices, and Thottada offers an array of freshly ground spices like black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- Coconut products: Coconut plays a vital role in the lives of people in Kerala. You can find coconut oil, coconut milk, coconut chips, and other products made from the fruit.
- Traditional clothing: If you want to experience Kerala's traditional attire firsthand, then visit the local shops for Mundu (dhoti) and Neriyathu (blouse) for women.
Markets to visit
- Thottada Beach Market: This market is located near the beach and offers fresh seafood caught by local fishermen. You can also find handicrafts and souvenirs here.
- Kannur Handloom Market: This market is around 15 km from Thottada and offers a wide range of handloom products like towels, blankets, sarees at reasonable prices.
- Fort Road Market: This bustling market in Kannur town has everything from clothes to electronics to footwear.
What to avoid
- Fake jewelry: Be careful while buying jewelry as some shops may sell counterfeit items.
- Unauthorized Ayurvedic medicines: While Ayurveda medicines are popular here but avoid buying them from unauthorized sources.
- Overpriced goods: Bargain hard while shopping as some shopkeepers may quote higher prices for tourists.
- Endangered species products: Avoid purchasing any product made from endangered species like ivory or turtle shells as they are illegal.
In conclusion,Thottada provides an excellent opportunity to explore traditional handicrafts and delicious food while enjoying the scenic beauty of the village. However, it's essential to be cautious while shopping to avoid any scams or buying illegal items.
Nightlife in Thottada
Thottada is a small village in the Kannur district of Kerala where nightlife is not as vibrant as other popular tourist destinations. However, there are a few places where tourists can spend their night enjoying the local culture and some fun activities.
Places for Nightlife in Thottada:
Beach Camp at Thottada: Spend the night camping on the beach with bonfires, music, and barbeque. Enjoy the sound of the waves crashing on the shore and stargazing at night.
Karimeen Hut at Meenkunnu Beach: Stay in traditional Kerala-style huts near the beachfront. The place offers fishing trips and cooking classes to learn how to prepare traditional Kerala dishes.
Thottada Beach Resort: Enjoy a luxurious stay with stunning views of the Arabian sea. The resort offers various activities like yoga classes, ayurvedic massages, and cultural shows.
Although Thottada doesn't have any big clubs or bars, these places offer unique experiences to enjoy the local culture and natural beauty of Thottada. The nightlife here is more about experiencing nature's bliss while relaxing on a serene beach than loud music and parties. Visitors can indulge in some local seafood delicacies and traditional drinks while enjoying a peaceful evening by the sea.
Outdoor Activities in Thottada
After experiencing the vibrant nightlife in Thottada, one can also indulge in various outdoor activities during the day. Thottada offers a plethora of outdoor activities that cater to different interests and age groups. The beautiful beaches, serene backwaters, and lush green forests provide the perfect backdrop for adventure enthusiasts.
Scuba Diving
One of the most popular outdoor activities in Thottada is scuba diving. The clear waters of the Arabian Sea offer an excellent opportunity to explore the underwater world full of colorful marine life, coral reefs, and shipwrecks.
Kayaking
Another activity that is gaining popularity among tourists is kayaking. The calm backwaters provide a serene environment to paddle along and observe the natural beauty around.
Trekking
For those who love trekking and hiking, Thottada offers various trails through its lush green forests. The trails are suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
Apart from these three activities, one can also indulge in other outdoor activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides on the beaches. Overall, Thottada has something to offer for everyone who loves spending time outdoors amidst nature.
Festivals and Events in Thottada
Festivals and Events in Thottada
Thottada is a place that is immersed in culture and tradition. The locals here celebrate numerous festivals and events throughout the year, which are an important part of their lives. These festivals are characterized by vibrant colors, delicious food, music, and dance. They exhibit the rich cultural heritage of Thottada and bring people together to celebrate.
Here are some of the festivals and events that take place in Thottada:
Onam (August/September) - Onam is the most significant festival in Kerala. It is celebrated to welcome the mythical King Mahabali who visits his subjects once a year. People decorate their houses with flowers, prepare a grand feast called Onasadhya, and participate in traditional games like tug of war.
Christmas (December) - Christianity has a significant presence in Thottada, and Christmas is celebrated with great fervor. People decorate their homes with colorful lights, stars, and Christmas trees. Churches conduct midnight masses on Christmas Eve.
Eid-ul-Fitr (May/June) - Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, which is a month of fasting for Muslims worldwide. People offer prayers at mosques, exchange gifts with family and friends, and prepare delicious delicacies like biryani.
Vishu (April) - Vishu is another essential festival celebrated in Kerala that marks the beginning of the Malayalam New Year. People wake up early on this day to see Vishukani or the first sight of auspicious things in front of them.
Thalappoli Festival (January/February) - Thalappoli Festival is celebrated at Sri Kanakamahalakshmi Temple located near Thottada Beach. Women carry thalam or plates adorned with flowers on their heads as they walk to the temple to offer prayers.
These festivals showcase the diversity of traditions followed by people living in Thottada. They bring together people from different backgrounds to celebrate unity amidst diversity.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Thottada
Plan ahead: Before traveling to Thottada, research about the festivals and events that are happening in the area. This will help you plan your itinerary accordingly and ensure that you do not miss out on any of the cultural experiences that Thottada has to offer.
Respect local customs: Thottada is a culturally rich destination with many traditions and customs. As a traveler, it is important to respect these customs and behave appropriately while attending festivals and events in the area. Dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering temples or homes, and avoid taking photographs without permission.
Stay hydrated: Thottada can get quite hot and humid, especially during the summer months. It is essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. You can also try coconut water or fresh juices to keep yourself refreshed.
Try local cuisine: Thottada is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of different flavors and spices. Make sure to try some of the local dishes like seafood curries, appam with stew, and puttu kadala during your visit.
Be mindful of your belongings: While traveling in Thottada, be mindful of your belongings at all times. Keep your valuables safe in a secure bag or locker when attending festivals or events as there can be large crowds. Also, avoid carrying too much cash or expensive items with you when exploring the area.
FAQs
What is Thottada?
Thottada is a serene coastal village located in the Kannur district of Kerala, India. It is known for its pristine beaches, lush greenery, and tranquil atmosphere.
How to reach Thottada?
Thottada can be reached by air, train or road. The nearest airport is the Calicut International Airport which is about 100 km away. The nearest railway station is Kannur Railway Station which is 8 km from Thottada. One can also take a bus or hire a taxi from Kannur to reach Thottada.
What are the popular tourist attractions in Thottada?
Thottada Beach, Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple, and Ezhimala Hills are some of the popular tourist attractions in and around Thottada.
What are the best activities to do in Thottada?
Some of the best activities to do in Thottada include swimming in the sea, sunbathing on the beach, taking a leisurely walk along the coast, visiting nearby temples and hills for trekking.
What are some good places to stay in Thottada?
There are several good places to stay in Thottada including resorts like Seashell Haris Beach Home and Malabar Ocean Front Resort & Spa, as well as budget hotels like Kairali Heritage Resort and Sree Gokulam Residency.
When is the best time to visit Thottada?
The best time to visit Thottada is from October to May when there is less rainfall and the weather is pleasant. During this time, tourists can enjoy water sports activities as well as explore nearby places without any hindrance due to rains.
Is it safe for solo travelers to visit Thottada?
Yes, it is safe for solo travelers to visit Thottada as it is a peaceful village with friendly locals. However, it’s always advisable for solo travelers (especially female) to take necessary precautions while traveling alone at night.
