Kozhikode is one of the regular destinations in a Kerala Tour that is of special interest for those with an inclination towards the cultural history of a place. For the people of Kozhikode, the pleasant stretch of rock studded beach is Kappakkadavu. To the tourist Kappad beach is one of the most charming of Kerala's beaches. Kappad finds mention in history and geography texts as the gateway to the Malabar coast. Here, 501 years ago, 170 men led by the Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama (1460-1524) sailed in and stepped into Kerala to create a new chapter in history.

It was the spices and wealth of Malabar that first brought the Arabs, the Phoenicans, the Greeks, the Romans, the Portuguese, the Dutch and the English to Kerala. Kozhikode was then the most important trade centre of the Malabar region. Today only a little stone monument is left at the Kappad beach to speak of its great historic importance.

On the rocks nearby is a temple believed to be 800 years old. To the tourist, however, this little sea faring town is a haven. The best route to Kappad is along the backwaters. Unspoilt and uncrowded, the picturesque backwaters of Kozhikode offer a bewitching experience.