Flights from Bangalore to Kozhikode (Calicut)

A City of Spices and Sculptures

Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is an ancient city with a long history. From times of antiquity, it was a major centre of trade and commerce due to its location on the Malabar coast of western India. Once dubbed the 'City of Spices' it was a huge exporter of eastern spices such as cardamom and black pepper. In 2012, Kozhikode was named the 'City of Sculptures' as a result of the many architecturally designed sculptures located around the city. The textile calico gets its English name from the city's former name of Calicut.

When to visit Kozhikode

Kozhikode has a humid, tropical climate. Generally, the best time of year to visit for the mildest weather is from December to March. From then on until May it becomes very hot, with monsoon rains arriving from June until November. In terms of public celebrations, Kozhikode observes all the usual Hindu festivals including for example Diwali at the end of October and Malabar Mahotsavam in January, which is five days of music, dance and drama.

Eating out in Kozhikode

Kozhikode and the wider Malabar region has a good reputation for food, and a strong culinary tradition. The Malabar Biriyani and Calicut Halwa come highly recommended. Eating out in Kozhikode is much cheaper than in Delhi, and the cost of a basic meal is less than half that of the capital at around 50 rupees.

Getting around Kozhikode and where to stay

Calicut International Airport, in Karipur, is around 28 km from Kozhikode. The number 747 airport bus leaves from the Kondotty bus stand close to the airport. The cost is around 3-4 rupees per kilometre. 

Local transport around Kozhikode itself is plentiful and inexpensive. A bus stands at around 7 rupee for a 3 km journey and an auto rickshaw around 15 rupees per kilometre. Taxis in the city charge a flat rate. 

Places to stay are plentiful in Kozhikode, though it's worth remembering that heavy traffic congestion in the city can be very noisy at times, not to mention the air pollution. For this reason, hotel rooms near the beach are a much more pleasant option for many visitors. A budget room will generally cost around 500 rupees per night, whereas a top end luxury room would be about 4,200 rupees.