Kozhikode (earlier Calicut, anglicized form of Kalikut) means Koyil (Palace) Kodu (fortified). The historical town was the seat of Zamorins. When Vasco De Gama, the navigator from Lisbon landed at Kappad near Kozhikode, the city was the first in the country to receive a force from a Western country. Even before the Gama expedition on this land, Arabs and Chinese had established trade relations with Kozhikode. During the British regime Kozhikode was under Madras Province. The city has retained its position as the capital of Malabar region and major trading centre of hill-produce.

Kallai : Timber trading centre, once had the second biggest centre in the world. Two Km from the city.

Kappad : Beach emerging as a tourist centre. Vasco De Gama landed here in 1498. 16 Km from Kozhikode

Baypore : World famous boat manufacturing centre. A major port in the ancient times.10 km from Kozhikode.

Feroke : Tile factories concentrated here. Ruins of a fort, believed built in 1788, are seen.

Vadakara : birth place of legendary navigator Kunjali Marakkar, chief of Zamorin's force. His sword is preserved in the house which is under state archeology department. 40 km from Kozhikode.

Kakkayam : The only power generating centre in Malabar. A breathtaking waterfalls, Urakkuzhi . 60 km from Kozhikode.

Peruvannamuzhi : Dam, with boating facility. Bird sanctuary, crocodile farm garden include other attractions. 45km from Kozhikode.

Mahi( earlier Mayyazhi) : Earlier a French settlement. Now part of Pondichery Government. St. Theresa's Church, a major pilgrim centre in Malabar.