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alappuram (Literally, a land atop hills) is situated 50Km southeast of Kozhikode. Bounded by the Nilgiri hills in the east, the Arabian Sea in the west and the Trissur and Palakkad districts in the
south.
Malappuram is enriched by the three great rivers flowing through it- the Chaliyar, the Kadalundi and the Bharathapuzha.
Malappuram has a rich and eventful history. It was the military head quarters of the Zamorins of Kozhikode since ancient times.
The district was the venue for many of the Mappila revolts (uprisings against the British East India Company in Kerala) between 1792 and 1921. The hill country has also contributed much to the cultural heritage of Kerala. It was a famous center for Hindu-Vedic learning and Islamic Philosophy.
The temples and mosques of this district are well known for their spectacular festivals. Along with historic monuments and diverse natural attractions, a range of cultural and ritual art forms add to its value as a destination worth visiting.
Thirunavaya
Situated on the banks of the Bharathapuzha, this is a place of great historical importance. The Mamangam, a grand assembly of the rulers of Kerala was held here once every 12 years un olden times.
This extravagant festival was held for the last time in 1775. Today Thirunavaya is the venue for the annual Sarvodaya Mela. The Thirunavaya temple is also a famous pilgrim
centre.
Thali Temple
Perinthalmanna: The temple is located about 3 Km west of Angadipuram on the way to Malappuram from
Perinthalmanna.
Thirumandhamkunnu temple
Angadippuram: Dedicated to Goddess Durga, this is an important pilgrim centre in Malappuram. The annual Pooram festival celebrated in March/April attracts large gatherings of devotees.
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The Jama-at mosque
It is an important pilgrim centre of the Muslims of Kerala. The four-day annual festival at the mosque (nercha) is celebrated in April.
Adjoining the mosque is the mausoleum of the Malappuram Shaheeds (martyrs) whose brave exploits have been immortalized in the Mappila ballads.
Pazhayangadi Mosque, Kondotti
The three day long Valia Nercha feast at this 500-year-old Muslim Pilgrim centre, celebrated in February/March, is more of a local cultural event with people from all communities participating.
Nilambur
This is the original home of the Cholainaikans, the oldest aborginal tribe of Kerala. The extensively forested land is also well known for its bamboo woods and Canolly's Plot, the world's oldest teak plantation, teak museum and British Army Cottage.
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Tirur
The birth place of Thunchath Ezhuthachan, now called Thunchan Parambu, is in Tirur. It is the hallowed ground where hundreds of Malayaee children are initiated into the wonders of writng when they first trace the letters of the Malayalam alphabet in sand taken from that revered spot which was Ezhuthachan's home.
Kottakkal
This small town is home to the famed Kottakkal Arya Vaidyasala, one of the pioneer institutions of Ayurveda, the traditional system of health, and medicine, in Kerala. Founded in 1902 by Vaidyaratnam P.S. Warrier, Kottakkal AryaVaidyasala has branches all over the state as well as Delhi and Madras.
One of the best Aurvedic centers in the state, the Arya Vaidyasala runs an Aurvedic research center, a nursing home and a hospital. The chief physician can be consulted only by appointment made at least 10 days in advance.
Accommodation options at the nursing home include family blocks, double rooms, single rooms and suites.
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Vallikunnu Beach
A beach resort set in the middle of a coconut grove is the main attraction here. The Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is just a short distance away.
Padinharekara Beach
At the end of the Tipu Sultan road near Ponnani, the beach offer a breathtaking view of the confluence of the Bharathapuzha, the Tirur Puzha and the Arabian Sea.
Tanur Beach
The small coastal fishing town of Tanur was one of the earliest settlements of the Portuguese. It is believed that St. Francis Xavier visited the place in 1546 and converted the local chieftain to Christianity.
About 3 km south of Tanur is Keraladesapuram Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is said to be one of Kerala's oldest temples.
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