Muzhappilangad Beach

About Muzhappilangad Beach

Muzhappilangad beach of Kannur is one of the longest beaches of Kerala. It is situated at a distance of 15 kilometers from Kannur and 8 kms from Thalassery. The Muzhapilangad beach is the only drive-in beach of India. This is what makes it unique among all other beaches of not only Kerala but also India. The long stretch, which measures around 4 kilometers, is the ideal place to laze around or go for a drive. The beach is clean and well maintained
and is one of the best laces to hang around when in Kannur.The shores of the Muzhappilangad beach are lined with black boulders, which protects the shores from the lashing waves and also make a natural shallow place. One can easily swim in this natural shallow pool of water without having to fear the powerful currents. One can soak up the sun while lying lazily on the rocks. It is a beach lover’s paradise. The calm yet enthralling ambience of the beach is what makes it a popular getaway for tourists.The lovely Dharmadam Island is located over here, just a few meters from the shore. The island and the beach look absolutely beautiful and should be visited if you want to experience the true beauty of untouched nature. The Muzhapilangad beach, which stretches for about four kilometers, is a drive-in beach where one can drive down the entire length. Calm and tranquil, the Muzhappilangad Beach is secluded and still unexplored. Huge black rocks scattered here protect this long beach from the deep currents, and form a tranquil pool of shallow waters, which is a swimmer’s paradise. The palm groves, fringing the beach, are a cool hideaway from the tropical sun. The

During the day the beach remains quiet and peaceful, and the only people around are local fishermen sorting out their day’s catch in the morning. It is possible to walk from one end of the beach to the other, and see hardly anyone on the way. Muzhappilangad Beach is palm-fringed stretch of sand where in seclusion you will find peace and retreat from daily drudgeries. The surrounding coconut groves strewn all along the beach promises a relaxed stay. In the evening the quiet atmosphere of the place is enlivened by Kathakali performances. The site offers breathtaking views of famous Dharmadam Island, located just across the Arayakkandy River. Visitors are treated with a rare and charming view of sea and rivers conjunction. Swim, laze around, enjoy long drives, or play water sports amidst exotic stretch of sands and secluded coconut groves. Feel the ambience of beach life at Muzhappilangad.

Interesting things to Visit

Thalassery Fort:

This imposing fort was built by the British East India Company in 1708 AD, as a memorial of their colonial imperialism. This historical monument, with its huge walls, secret tunnels to the sea and delicately carved massive doors, is a magnificent structure worth a visit.

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary:

Situated 45 km from Thalassery, this wildlife sanctuary houses all species of the primates in Kerala. You can enjoy trekking, wildlife viewing, bird-watching and photography here.

Wellesley Bungalow:

The Wellesley bungalow represents peace and this was owned by Babar. He was a company man and was the host to Wellesley when Wellesley initiated to introduce cricket to Indians. The Wellesley bungalow is sited near the fort and is also adjacent to Juma Masjid and the English church. It is nearly 22 km from Kannur.

Juma Masjid:

Juma Masjid is located adjacent to the Maidan in the Thalassery town. Juma Masjid is recognized as one of the remarkable mosques in the district. Juma Masjid is believed to be nearly a thousand years old.

Randattara Cinnamon Estate:

Spices were of very great value in the medieval and ancient times and some of the prominent spices were the black pepper, turmeric, and ginger. Cinnamon grew in abundance. Spices were of very great value in the medieval and ancient times and some of the prominent spices were the black pepper, turmeric, and ginger. Cinnamon grew in abundance in Kannur. Ancient Romans traded these items regularly using the Red sea as a trade route and these spices were in enormous demand. The climate was favorable and the trade flourished.

Mahe Gateway:

Mahe in the Kerala map is a very tiny dot. This town is located on the western coast of the Indian peninsula between Thalassery and Badagara. Mahe in the Kerala map is a very tiny dot. This town is located on the western coast of the Indian peninsula between Thalassery and Badagara. This is 58 km from Kozhikode and from Kannur it is 24 km. It is a very busy trade centre. Mahe acquired its place in the map of India after the settlement of French in this place.

Nearest Visiting places

Meenkunnu Beach:

The peaceful, quiet and beautiful Meenkunnu beach is a tourist paradise, situated at Azhikode, 12km from Kannur. It is an extension of the Payyambalam Beach. The golden sands of the beach lined with coconut trees and surf, is a perfect place to spend leisure time.

The Residence of the Gundert:

The Gundert Bungalow is situate at Illikkunnu, 2 kms away from Thalassery near the National Highway. It was here that Gundert, the German missionary and the plyglot resided for 20 years from 1839. He made invaluable contributions to the Malayalam language.

Parassinikkadavu Temple:

It is a famous temple in south India. It is situated 20 kms away from Kannur. It is famous for its natural beauty. Boating facilities are available for tourists.

Dharmadam Isle:

This small Island which is situated in the sea like a green spot just 100 m away from shore, becomes a blissful experience to tourists. This isle is full of coconut trees. There is only a well here as the symbol of human presence. One can reach this place by boat from southern part of Moithu bridge in the national highway. During ebb time one can reach here by foot. From this isle one can see the rocks around and the beauty of Muzhuppilangad beach and the distant beauty of Thalassery town. When Dharmadam isle was an important trading center, this isle was in the possession of Chirakkal king.

Alaram Wildlife Sanctuary:

Alaram Wildlife Sanctuary is a situated on the slopes of the Western Ghats. Found in this tranquil sanctuary is elephants, sloth bears, sambar and mouse deer as well as fauna and reptiles. The highest peak of Katti Betta, covered with tropical and semi- evergreen forests rises to a majestic height of 1145 m above sea level.

Parassinikkadavu (Snake Park):

Parassinikkadavu Snake Park signifies the great role played by Snakes in keeping the ecology of nature. The park is dedicated to preservation and conservation of snakes, most of which are getting extinct gradually. It has many snake pits and glass cases especially made only for king Cobras. In all there are about 150 snakes including spectacled Cobras, Monosialed Cobras, Russell, Vipers, Pit Viper and three magnificent king cobras.

Arakkal Palace:

3 kms from Kannur, is a beautiful palace of the former Arakkal Ali Rajas, the only Muslim royal family of Kerala that controlled parts of the coast and Lakshadweep.

Tellicherry Fort:

22 kms from Kannur, the fort constructed in 1708,was the military centre of the British and is now a historical monument. The S.A.I. Gymnastic Centre, an old Muslim Mosque.

Valapattanam:

The small town on the Valapattanam river is situated about 7 kms from Kannur. This town is well known for its wood-based industries and timber trade. The port of Azhikkal and Azhikkal beach are located nearby. Western India Plywoods Limited, the largest wood-based industry in India and also one of the largest of its kind in South East Asia.

Thodeekulam Siva Temple:

Thodeekulam Siva Temple is located about 2 km from Kannavam on the Thalasseri-Mananthavady road in the Kannur district. This temple is famous for its mural paintings. This temple was constructed 2,000 years ago.

Pazhassi Dam:

An ideal retreat for rourists ,the damsite is famous for its scenic beauty. The D.T.P.C provides pleasure boating faciliaties at the reservoir. Accommodation is available at the Project Inspection Bungalow and its dormitories.

Moppila Bay:

Moppila Bay is a natural fishing harbour, lying near Fort St. Angelos. A sea wall projecting from the fort separates the rough sea and inland water. The bay was famous during the Kolathiris’ regime as a commercial harbour that linked Kolathunadu with Lakshadweep and foreign countriea, in imports.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

Savoy Hotel
Beach Road, Cannanore
Kannur, Kerala
Tel:0497 2760074.

Malabar Residency
Thavakkara Road
Kannur, Kerala
Tel:0497 2701654.

Palmgrove Heritage Retreat
Near Govt. Guest House
Mill Road, Kannur
Kerala
Tel: 0497 2703182.

Hotel Arafa International
Padanapalam, Kannur
Kerala.

Seashell Beach Resot
Haris Guest House
Adi Kadalayi Last
Kannur, Kerala 670007
Tel: 09847003687.

Help Line/Phone Number

Police Station:

Police Station
NH 17, Thalassery, Kannur
Kerala.

Old Police Station
Thalassery, Kannur
Keral

Edacheri Police Station
SH 54, Kozhikode
Kerala.

Nearest Hospital:

Shreyas Hospital
Kayalode Kadirur Road
Kadirur, Kannur
Kerala.

Josegiri Hospital
Thalassery, Kannur, Kerala

Co operative Hospital
NH 17, Koduvally
Thalassery, Kannur
Kerala.

Mission Hospital
Thalassery, Kannur
Kerala.

General Hospital
Thalassery, Kannur
Kerala.

Santhosh Hospital
Thalassery, Kannur
Kerala.

Link:

http://keralaforall.blogspot.com/2009/07/muzhappilangad-beach-kannur-kerala.html
http://keralatourismblogs.blogspot.com/2009/06/muzhappilangad-beach.html
http://beaches-in-kerala.blogspot.com/2009/03/muzhappilangad-beach.html
http://roshinthovarai.blogspot.com/2006/03/muzhappilangad-beach.html

Location info

• Address: Muzhappilangad, Kannur, Kerala, India.

• District: Kannur District.

• Nearest City: Tellicherry , Thaliparamba, Payyannur, Mattannur, Koothuparamba, Chakarakkal, Thalassery.

• Best time to visit: In winter, October to may.

Climate & weather

Climate is Humid and Tropical. And the Temparature in Summer32.6 °C and in Winter21.4°C.

Things to do at Muzhappilangad Beach

You can Swim, laze around, enjoy long drives, or play water sports amidst exotic stretch of sands and secluded coconut groves. One can easily swim in this natural shallow pool of water without having to fear the powerful currents. One can soak up the sun while lying lazily on the rocks.

Nearest petrol pump

Parippayi Petrol Pump
Kannur, Kerala.

Petrol Pump
Koothuparamba, Kannur
Kerala.

KTC Petrol Pump
Mahe.

Petrol Pump
Koothuparamba
Kannur, Kerala.

IBP Petrol Pump
Mahe, Kerala.

Things to carry

Sun glasses, Clothes, Food, Water and Camera.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Kerala. 4G is reliable in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, and along the coastal belt. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain backwater stretches. Most hotels, houseboats, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Kerala’s beaches have seafood shacks serving fresh catch of the day — karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish), crab roast, and prawn curry. Beach areas (Kovalam, Varkala, Cherai) have cliff-top cafes and beachside restaurants with excellent views. Traditional Kerala snacks like banana chips, pazham pori, and ela ada are widely available.

Accessibility

The beach is accessible from the main road by a short walk across sand. Wheelchair access may be limited due to soft sand. The nearest approach road ends at the beach entrance, and beach wheelchairs are generally not available. Visitors with mobility concerns may find the shacks and parking area more accessible than the beach itself.

Rules & restrictions

Dress modestly — Kerala is culturally conservative. Swimming at certain beaches can be dangerous due to strong currents and riptides — observe lifeguard flags. Alcohol is regulated; some beach areas have restrictions. Many beaches near temples or fishing communities appreciate conservative dress. Plastic bans are enforced across Kerala.

Best photography spots

Kerala’s coastline offers some of India’s most photogenic beach scenes: Chinese fishing nets silhouetted at sunset in Kochi, the dramatic cliffs of Varkala, the lighthouse and crescent beach at Kovalam, and the tranquil palm-fringed stretches of Marari. The fishing communities, colourful boats, and golden-hour light create stunning images.

Best time to visit Muzhappilangad Beach

The best time to visit Muzhappilangad Beach is from November to February when the weather is pleasant with low humidity and clear skies, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. March to May is hot and humid but less crowded. The monsoon season (June–September) brings rough seas and many water activities are restricted, though the coastline looks lush and dramatic.

Timings & opening hours

Beaches are accessible 24 hours. However, swimming and water activities are recommended only during daylight hours (6:00 AM–6:00 PM) when lifeguards are present. Early mornings (6:00 AM–8:00 AM) are ideal for walks and sunrise views.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry to all beaches in Kerala is free. Parking fees may apply (INR 10–30 for two-wheelers, INR 30–50 for cars). Charges for water sports, beach chairs, and umbrellas are separate and vary by vendor.

Duration needed

2–3 hours. Visitors often spend half a day relaxing, swimming, and enjoying beachside dining. Sunset viewing typically takes 30–45 minutes.

Safety tips

Swimming at Muzhappilangad Beach should be done only in designated areas and during lifeguard duty hours. Beware of strong riptides and undertows — red flags indicate dangerous conditions. Never swim alone, especially late in the evening. Avoid alcohol before swimming. Keep valuables in a safe place or leave them at your accommodation. Supervise children at all times near the water.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (CNN) (approximately 40 km). Nearest Railway Station: Kannur Railway Station. The destination is well-connected by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses and private taxis from major towns.

History of Muzhappilangad Beach

Muzhappilangad Beach, like many beaches along the Kerala coast, has been part of the region’s maritime history for centuries. Kerala’s beaches were important trading posts on the Spice Route, connecting the Malabar Coast with traders from Arabia, Portugal, Holland, and China. The beach area has evolved from a fishing village centre to a popular tourist destination while still maintaining its coastal character and fishing community traditions.

Frequently asked questions

Is Muzhappilangad Beach safe for swimming? — Yes, swimming is generally safe in designated areas during lifeguard hours (typically 8:00 AM–6:00 PM). Always observe flag warnings: red flags indicate dangerous conditions. Are there changing rooms and showers? — Basic changing facilities and freshwater showers are available at most popular beaches. Beach shacks and some local stalls may charge a small fee. What is the best time to visit? — Early morning (6:00 AM–8:00 AM) for peaceful walks and sunrise, or late afternoon (4:00 PM–6:00 PM) for sunset views and cooler temperatures. Are water sports available? — Water sports availability varies by beach. Popular beaches may offer parasailing, jet-skiing, banana boat rides, and speed boat rides through private operators. Is there accommodation nearby? — Yes, a range of options from budget homestays to luxury resorts are available within walking distance or a short drive.