Elathur, a small coastal village in Kozhikode, Kerala, is known for its scenic beauty and serene backwaters. It's famous for the Elathur Canal, which is part of the Canoly Canal system, and the beautiful Kappad Beach, where the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama landed in 1498. The place offers a blend of history, culture, and natural ecosystems, which attracts tourists who are interested in experiencing the tranquil side of Kerala.
The main attractions in Elathur include the Canoly Canal for boat rides, the historical Kappad Beach with its charming coastal lines and the rock studded beach, the Korapuzha River, which is popular for water sports and the annual Korapuzha Jalotsavam (water fest), and the nearby Elathur Fishing Harbour, providing insights into the local fishing industry.
The best time to visit Elathur is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and conducive for tourism. The monsoon season from June to September can be beautiful with the lush greenery, but it is also when the region experiences heavy rainfall, which might not suit all tourists.
While Elathur itself is a small village with limited accommodation options, tourists can find a range of hotels, resorts, and homestays in the nearby city of Kozhikode. These cater to various budgets and preferences, from luxury resorts to more budget-conscious homestays.
Tourists can travel to Elathur by flying into the Kozhikode International Airport (CCJ), which is about 30 km away. Alternatively, they can arrive at the Kozhikode Railway Station and take a taxi or a bus to Elathur. For local travel, hiring cabs or relying on state-run or private buses is recommended.
Visitors to Elathur should try local Keralan cuisine, which includes seafood delicacies due to its coastal location, such as fish curry, prawn fry, and kappa (tapioca) with fish curry. Vegetarian options like appam with vegetable stew, puttu with kadala curry, and other traditional dishes are also recommended.
Yes, the Korapuzha River near Elathur is a hub for water activities. Tourists can participate in water sports like kayaking and boating. Additionally, the annual Korapuzha Jalotsavam attracts water sport enthusiasts for competitive events.
Tourists in Elathur can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting during festivals such as Onam and Vishu, or by engaging with the local fishing communities to learn more about their way of life. Traditional art performances like Kathakali and Theyyam may also be available in cultural centers in Kozhikode.
While Elathur itself may not be known for wildlife tourism, the nearby regions in Kerala offer numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks such as the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, where tourists can observe various species of flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
Tourists should be respectful of local customs and traditions, dress modestly, and adhere to guidelines for responsible tourism. It's also advisable to carry mosquito repellent due to the coastal and backwater areas and be cautious when engaging in water activities.
