Moppila Bay-Kerela: A Natural Fishing Harbour
Moppila Bay, an old and historical harbour, is one of the most active beaches in Kerala. A natural fishing harbour, the Moppila Bay plays an important role in the region’s economy and serves a hub for the region’s fishing activities. The remnants of an ancient temple and fort found here hint toward the historical significance of the region. During the Kolathiri regime Moppila Bay served as the central trade hub between Kolathunadu and Lakshadweep and other foreign countries. Today a modernized fishing harbour is being built with Norwegian assistance. The Moppila Bay is also famous for its sandy stretches and excursions. The Moppila Bay is one of the region’s most prominent beach vacation resorts and is an excellent place to catch a ride to the sea, weather permitting that is.
Moppila Bay- TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
The Moppila Bay is well connected to some of the best attractions in Kerala.
- Located only 3 kms from the historically significant city of Kannur, the Moppila Bay is a perfect base to explore the surrounding region’s backwaters and lagoons.
- The Moppila Bay also sits next to St. Angelo’s Fort, which is today a well-maintained heritage monument; the credit for the fort’s excellent condition goes to the Archaeological Survey of India. Built in 1505 by Dom Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese Viceroy of India, the fort later served as the centre of Portuguese military might in Kerala. The calm inland waters of the region are protected from the rough seas by a sea wall, which is an extension of the St. Angelo’s Fort.
- The magnificent Arakkal Palace, the royal home of the Arakkal Dynasty which ruled the region, is located on the other side of the Moppila Bay lies opposite to the St. Angelo’s Fort. Regardless of the many historical attractions in the surrounding areas, the one thing that tourists most want to indulge in after reaching Moppila Bay is lounging around in one of the sandy stretches and soaking up the waves and the sun.
Moppila Bay- TRAVEL TIPS
- Languages: Malayalam and English are widely spoken in the region surrounding the Moppila Bay, and as such communication should not be a problem. Hindi, however, is somewhat less prevalent.
- Cuisine: Cuisine catering to all tastes and stomachs is readily available in Moppila Bay.
Many tour operators cover the Moppila Bay as part of their Kerala tours. The waters surrounding the Moppila Bay are rich in aquatic life and are a very apt for place for both catching fish and shopping for the same.
BEST TIME to visit
The Moppila Bay can be visited any time of the year. However, during the monsoons, that is, between the months of June and September, one may not be able to soak up a whole lot of sun. Find Travel Agents suiting your travel on Tripraja.com
BEST WAY to reach Moppila Bay
- By Air: Mangalore, located at a distance of 125 kms in Karnataka, is the nearest airport. There are daily flights connecting Mangalore to Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai and the Middle East.
- By Rail: Kannur, located 3 kms away, is the nearest railway station.
- By Road: The Moppila Bay is well connected to all the important cities and other beach resorts in the region.
ACCOMMODATION
Hotels, inspection bungalows, private cottages, beach apartments etc. are available to suit all budgets. The Moppila Bay abounds in family holiday resorts, vacation homes and beach houses. One can obtain excellent discounts on accommodation via package beach tours and family vacations.