Malappuram

• Area: 3550 sq. km
• Population: 3,096,000
• STD: 0493
• 36km from Kozhikode

Malappuram, which literally means a ‘land atop hills’ is aptly named. The land is bound by the Nilgiri Hills on the east, with the Lakshwadweep Sea running along its entire western coast. Mainly three rivers – the Chaliyar, the Kadalundi and the Bharatapuzha water the district. Malappuram is replete with a rich and eventful history. The military headquarters of the Zamorins of Kozhikode was located here. The Zamorins had well established contacts with the Arab world, and according to some historians, were the wealthiest rulers in medieval India. However, despite their immense wealth, they were unable to unify Kerala into a single political entity – which paved the way for the British to annex Kerala. The Mappilla revolt against the British East India Company between 1792 and 1921 can be traced to Malappuram. The place was also an important centre of both Vedic learning as well as Islamic philosophy.

The temples and mosques in the area are well known for their spectacular festivals. Along with historic monuments and diverse natural attractions, a range of ritual and cultural art forms adds to its value as a destination worth seeing.

At the base of the Cantonment Hill, lies the Kottapadi – the remains of an old fort that was built originally by the Zamorins. Parnambi, a chieftain under the Zamorins used the complex for training his militia. The Vettakkorumakan Temple and the Shiva Temple are located near the Fort.

Malappuram also houses the Jama-at Mosque – one of the most significant mosques in Kerala. The four-day long festival of Nercha, is held at the mosque every year in April. Adjacent to the mosque is the Mausoleum of the Malappuram Shaheeds (martyrs). Their heroic deeds have been immortalised in the war ballads of Malappuram. The Nercha festival commemorates all those who fell in the fighting between Parnambi and the local Mappillas.