KannurA historic port city renowned for its ancient Theyyam rituals, high-quality handloom textiles, and pristine Arabian Sea coastlines.
Updated November 2026
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Kannur in one minute
Kannur — live weather, population, hidden places and cost of living, auto-updated.
The coastal city of Kannur, formerly known as Cannanore, serves as the administrative hub of North Malabar. It is strategically positioned between the Western Ghats and the Lakshadweep Sea. Historically a significant spice trading port, it hosted Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial interests, leaving a legacy of military architecture and diverse culinary influences that define the region today.
Modern Kannur is recognized as a center for handloom weaving and folk arts. The city is the primary gateway to the Theyyam performances held in ancestral shrines throughout the district. With the opening of the Kannur International Airport, the city has transitioned into a major transit point for the Malabar diaspora and eco-tourism in the Wayanad highlands.
Fast facts
| Status | Municipal Corporation |
| District | Kannur |
| Division | North Malabar |
| District population (2011) | 2523003 |
| City population (2011) | ≈62836 — pending |
| Urban agglomeration | 1642892 |
| Density | 1250 per sq km |
| Languages | Malayalam, English |
| Main stations | Kannur Main (CAN), Kannur South (CS) |
| Nearest airport | Kannur International (CNN) |
| River | Valapattanam, Kuppam |
| Sub-divisions | Kannur, Thalassery, Taliparamba, Iritty, Payyanur |
| District literacy | 95.10% |
| Famous for | Theyyam, Handloom, Muzhappilangad Beach |
City map
Demographics CENSUS 2011
Last official census — 2021 census deferred, estimates update on release.
62,836 residents
per 1,000 males
municipal area (2011)
≈6,912 children (est.)
Hidden & heritage places in Kannur
Kannur beyond the postcards — quiet places and lanes most guides skip.
St. Angelo Fort
A massive triangular stone fort built by the first Portuguese Viceroy in 1505. It features stable ruins, a chapel, and a seawall overlooking Mappila Bay, offering insights into colonial maritime military strategy.
Directions ↗Arakkal Museum
The former palace of the Arakkal Ali Rajas, the only Muslim royal family of Kerala. The museum displays maritime artifacts, royal furniture, and silver heirlooms documenting their historical dominance over Lakshadweep.
Directions ↗Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach
The longest drive-in beach in Asia, where the firm sand allows vehicles to drive along the shoreline for four kilometers. It is a major site for adventure tourism and local festivals.
Directions ↗Payyambalam Beach
A quiet urban beach known for its well-maintained gardens and the iconic sculpture of Mother and Child by Kanayi Kunhiraman. It serves as a memorial site for many of Kerala political leaders.
Directions ↗Mappila Bay
A natural harbor that was a major commercial port for centuries. It is now a modernized fishing harbor where visitors can observe traditional Malabar fishing boats and the Indo-Norwegian project facilities.
Directions ↗Dharmadam Island
A small uninhabited island covered in coconut palms and dense bush. During low tide, it is possible to walk through the shallow waters from the mainland to reach this secluded spot.
Directions ↗Weekend getaways near Kannur
Approximate road distances from Kannur.
Cost of living in Kannur
Indicative monthly estimates for a single person — verify locally before deciding.
| 1 BHK rent (city) | ₹3,000 – 6,000 / mo |
| 2 BHK rent (city) | ₹6,000 – 11,000 / mo |
| Meal at a local eatery | ₹70 – 150 |
| Groceries (single, month) | ₹3,500 – 5,500 |
| Utilities (basic) | ₹1,200 – 2,500 |
| Monthly total (est.) | ₹10,000 – 17,000 |
Estimates only · tier-3 market · updated with market data over time
What runs Kannur's economy
What actually runs Kannur.
Handloom Weaving
Known as the land of looms, the city produces high-quality cotton fabrics and home furnishings, primarily through cooperative societies that export to international markets.
Export Hub ↗Aviation and Cargo
The international airport at Mattannur has catalyzed specialized logistics, cold storage for perishables, and travel services catering to the Middle East export corridor.
Airport Zone ↗Cashew Processing
The district is a significant hub for cashew nut cultivation and processing, with numerous factories engaged in shelling, grading, and roasting for domestic and global sale.
Processing ↗Plywood and Timber
Utilizing resources from the Western Ghats foothills, the region hosts several industrial units for plywood manufacturing and timber seasoning, central to Kerala construction industry.
Manufacturing ↗Cultural Tourism
The seasonal Theyyam performances and heritage sites drive a service economy centered on homestays, cultural tours, and traditional Ayurvedic wellness centers.
Services ↗Fisheries
Mappila Bay and surrounding coastal belts support a large-scale fishing industry, including deep-sea trawling, traditional netting, and seafood processing for export.
Marine ↗Famous food & restaurants in Kannur
Where locals actually eat — local counters, classics and street institutions.
Thalassery Biryani Outlets
Specializing in the local variety of biryani made with short-grain Khaima rice, ghee, and local spices, typically served with date pickle and coconut chammanthi.
Directions ↗Ondhen Vishu Meals
Famous for authentic vegetarian Kerala Sadya served on banana leaves, focusing on seasonal ingredients and traditional North Malabar preparation styles.
Directions ↗Coastal Shacks near Payyambalam
Serving fresh Arabian Sea catch including spicy mussel stir-fry known as Kallummakkaya, fish curry, and prawn roast using local chili varieties.
Directions ↗Malabar Tea Rooms
Tracing back to the British influence, these establishments offer specialized snacks like Unnakkaya, Pazham Nirachathu, and various local meat puffs.
Directions ↗Verified from local guides · Sep 2026 · hours change — call ahead
Markets & shopping
Hantex and Hanveev Showrooms
Outlets for the weaver cooperatives selling authentic Kannur lungis, shirts, and high-quality cotton bedspreads.
Directions ↗Old City Spice Markets
Narrow lanes where wholesalers trade in local black pepper, dried ginger, and high-quality cashew nuts sourced from the hinterlands.
Directions ↗Festival & fair calendar
Theyyam Season
A ritual dance where performers embody deities through elaborate costumes and face painting in village shrines called Kavu.
Vishu
The Malayali New Year marked by the Vishukkani arrangement, fireworks, and traditional feasts across the Malabar region.
Onam
The state harvest festival celebrated with intricate floral carpets, boat races on the rivers, and major cultural processions.
Kannur Mahotsavam
A cultural festival organized by the corporation featuring exhibitions, food stalls, and traditional art performances at the Collectorate Maidan.
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FAQ
What is the best time to see Theyyam?
The Theyyam season typically runs from November to May. Performances are most frequent between December and March in various village temples and ancestral homes around the district.
How do I reach Kannur?
The city is well-connected by the Kannur International Airport (CNN). It is a major stop on the Shoranur—Mangalore railway line and accessible via NH-66 from Kochi or Mangalore.
What should I buy in Kannur?
Kannur is famous for its handloom cotton products like bedsheets and shirts. It is also a prime location to purchase high-quality cashews and traditional Malabar spices.
Is there a drive-in beach in Kannur?
Yes, Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach is located 15 km south of the city. It is the only drive-in beach in Kerala and allows cars to drive directly on the sand.