Valapattanam Beach
Location: Valapattanam about 7 km from Kannur town, Kannur district,
north Kerala.
Attractions: The largest wood-based industry in South East Asia, a beautiful
fishing harbour etc
Kannur is that part of the legendary Malabar Coast where King Solomon's ships
anchored to collect timber to build the 'Temple of the Lord' and to secure
most needed spices. Here in the little hamlet on the banks of the river Valapattanam,
is a giant of the modern timber industry - Western India Plywood Ltd., the
largest wood-based industry in South East Asia.
The timber industry of Valapattanam thrive on the rich forest resources of
the district. Teak, Iruli, Elavu, Karimurukku, sandalwood (Sandalum album)
etc. are found in plenty in the forests here. In addition are cash crops like
tea, coffee, rubber, tobacco, cashewnuts etc. Kannur is the only place in
Kerala where Pukayila (tobacco) cultivation is carried on successfully
Valapattanam is also a famous fishing harbour as well as the main source of
the irrigation project in the district. It is a fascinating experience to
watch the traditional mode of timber transportation - by tying long pieces
of timber together and allowing them to float down the stream.
Getting there:
Nearest railway station: Kannur, about 7 km from Valapattanam.
Nearest airports: Karipur international airport, Kozhikode, about 93
km from Kannur town.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
////////////////////////////////////////
Beaches in Kerala ////////////////////////////////////////
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------