Payyannur is a municipal town and a taluk (sub-district administrative unit) in the Kannur district of Kerala, India. It’s a coastal town known for its scenic beauty, historical significance, and vibrant culture. Here’s a detailed look at Payyannur:
- Total Area: 54.63 square kilometers (21.09 sq mi) [Wikipedia source]
- District: Kannur
- Nearby Taluk: Payyannur itself is a taluk. Other taluks in Kannur include Thalassery, Taliparamba, Hosdurg, and Manjeshwaram.
- Pincode: 670701
- Vehicle Registration: KL-59 (Kannur district)
- Weather: Payyannur has a tropical monsoon climate with hot and humid summers and heavy rainfall during the monsoons. Average summer temperatures can reach 35°C (95°F).
- Educational Institutions: Payyannur has several educational institutions, including government and private schools, colleges, and professional institutes. Some prominent ones include Payyannur College, Government Brennen College (Payyannur Campus), and SN College, Payyannur.
- Transport:
- Road: Payyannur is well-connected by road to major cities and towns in Kerala and neighboring states. National Highway 66 passes through Payyannur.
- Rail: Payyannur Railway Station is a major station on the Mangalore-Palakkad line.
- Air: The nearest airport is Kannur International Airport (IATA: Kannur), located about 100 kilometers from Payyannur.
- Places of Interest:
- Temples:
- Payyannur Subrahmanya Swami Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya, considered the heart of Payyannur.
- Beaches:
- Payyannur Beach: A scenic beach offering beautiful views and a serene environment.
- Pazhayangadi Beach: Another beach known for its black sand and calm atmosphere.
- Ezhimala: A historic hillock with caves and remnants of an ancient civilization.
- Kavvayi Backwaters: The third largest backwater system in Kerala, offering boat tours and a glimpse into the local ecosystem.
- Temples:
- Tourist Places: Payyannur offers a unique blend of beaches, temples, historical sites, and backwaters, making it an attractive destination. Additionally, nearby places like Kannur, with its forts and beaches, and Wayanad, with its hill stations and wildlife sanctuaries, are popular tourist attractions.
- Famous Festivals:
- Theyyam: A ritualistic art form with colorful costumes and performances.
- Theyyam Mahotsav: A grand celebration of Theyyam held annually in Payyannur.
- Poorakkali: A vibrant folk dance performance.
- Maruthukali: Another folk dance performance involving martial arts.
- Railway Stations: Payyannur Railway Station
- Airport Nearby: Kannur International Airport (IATA: Kannur)
- Hospitals: Payyannur has several hospitals providing medical care to the community. Some prominent ones include Payyannur Government District Hospital and SUT Hospital (Payyannur branch).