Wayanad Hills and Kozhikode Coast

At the top of the Thamarassery ghat. Look down on the nine hairpin bends you just drove up. Often misty. Mind the monkeys with your snacks.

A natural lake ringed by forest. Walk the path around it, or take a pedal boat (paid there, about Rs 300). Entry is included.

A short jeep or walk up from the parking, then about 30 minutes of steep steps and rock to the caves. Inside are carvings over 6,000 years old. Closed on Mondays and national holidays, and daily tickets are capped, so we go first thing.

A 13th century granite temple that Tipu Sultan's army once used as a store, which gave the town its name. Free entry.

Wide lawns and gardens by the reservoir, a gentle walk after the cave climb. Entry closes about 4:30 PM. Zipline and other rides are paid there.

A huge earth dam with small islands in the water and hills all around. Walk up to the dam top for the views. Entry is included.

Walk among the tea bushes, see the old factory machines and taste fresh Wayanad tea. Buy tea and spices to take home.

A 14th century wooden mosque with tiled roofs, beside the old Kuttichira pond. View it from outside unless you are let in. Dress modestly. Free.

The green heart of the city, around an old palace pond. A good place to sit in the shade. Free.

Sweet Meat Street, a busy walking street with halwa, banana chips and cloth shops. Taste a few kinds of Kozhikode halwa before you buy.

A long city beach with snack carts and old piers. Sunset is around 6:10 PM in December. Free.

A clean Blue Flag beach with rocks and palms, and a small memorial to Vasco da Gama's landing. Small entry fee, included.

Walk out on the long breakwater at the mouth of the Chaliyar river, then see the yards where big wooden urus (dhows) are still built by hand. Free to look.