About Calicut The city of Calicut (now, Kozhikode), on the Northern coast of Kerala, is redolent of the days when the Portuguese held sway over this part of the state. 'Kozhikode', is Kozhikode is derived from the Malyalam expression "Koyil Kodu”, meaning "Palace fortified", which was later anglicised to Calicut. The town was once one of India’s finest and busiest ports, and an integral part of the international spice trade. Even today, Calicut plays an important role in the international spice trade, as vast quantities of pepper and other spices are shipped from the port city. Many rivers pass through Calicut and numerous temples dot the cityscape. Within the city, many places like Pazhassirajah Museum, Art Gallery, Planetarium, Kalipoika, a recreational boat centre, and Malabar House Boats are worth visiting. Visitors can also wander around Calicut’s famous Sweet Meat Street and feast on a wide range of sweet delicacies. Food Calicut, being close to sea, is receives an abundance of various varieties of fish and sea food, making fish curry an integral part of the local diet. Rice is the staple food and appams (fermented rice cakes) are another popular dish here. Vegetarians use mango and jackfruit to making curry. Coconut is also remains an important constituent of all Keralite cuisine. Culture Kerala is a treasure trove of art and culture of a very high order. The uncompromising quality of artisanship displayed in the sculptures and paintings in the temples of the town are mute testimony to the artists’ craft. The Thiruvilangad temple contains many ancient sculptures. Some other temples such as Tali temple, Azhakodi temple and Bhairagimadom temple are the notables ones. Vadakkan Pattukal are the famous folk songs or ballads of the region. Koothu, Kathakali, Ottanthullal, Kaikottikali and others classical dance forms are performed during important festivals and functions. Thira and Theyyam are the ritual dances. Muslims, known as Mappila in this area, pass their time singing their favourites, Mappilapattu and Oppana, which have a distinct tune and are composed in a blend of Arabic and Malayalam. All the communities live harmoniously in this Hindu dominated area. Spices Varied agro-climatic condition in Kozhikode offers vast scope for production of a variety of herbs like Mint, Parsley and Oregano, among others.