Kappad Beach, Kozhikode

Any place that has an interesting history to back it swiftly rises to prominence. This holds true for Kappad Beach too. It is in the shores of Kappad that the Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama (1460-1524) first set foot 501 years ago in 1498 leading 170 men to begin a new chapter in the history of Kerala. Vasco da Gama was the first European to reach India. Today, there stands a stone monument at the Beach to commemorate the event and the worlds greatest explorer. On it is written, "Vasco da Gama Landed Here."

Kappad is one of the most historically significant places for Kerala, India and even for the rest of the world. It finds mention in every history and geography textbooks as the "Gateway to the Malabar Coast". It is locally known as Kappakkadavu, located about 16 km to the north of Kozhikode along the Kannur road at Tiruvangoor. Kappad is a pleasant charming rock-studded beach and one of the most popular haunts for the town. It is lined with swaying coconut palms that tower above the golden sand while the clear crystalline waters of the Arabian Sea gush invitingly. Creating a beautiful effect, two separate rocky promontories jut out into the sea forming a beautiful bay of calm waters. This formation is at one end of the Beach and it is worth taking a picture. Adding to the picturesque beauty of the place the waters close to the shoreline is filled with native fishing vessels lending a fairytale look to the Beach.

Another big attraction of Kappad Beach is the ancient temple. Available records trace it back to 800 years. The Temple is located atop the largest rock and difficult to miss. It is visited by devotees from all over the state and by curious tourists too. If you are there, you must try the famous ayurveda massage at the Ayurveda Health Spa. It is part of the Kappad Beach Resort which is located close to the Beach. Try the oil massages and you will drift away to sublime ecstasy. The Spa is also proud of its ayurvedic cures. So if you are there you should give it a try.

If you plan to stumble into this serene haven, dont make the mistake of driving down the road. Best route to Kappad is along the calm backwaters through the Korappuzha River. A ride down the palm fringed waters is an experience of a lifetime. Do get your camera ready because there will be endless breathtaking and unusual scenes you would like to capture along the way.