Kappad: a historic beach

Perhaps the scenic Kappad beach in the district of Kozhikode of Kerala is better known for its historic relevance. It was here that Vasco da Gama first set foot in India on the 27th of May 1498.

The adventurous Portuguese sailor’s landing with 120 men in three vessels marked the beginning of European domination in the country. A monument has been erected here to commemorate Gama’s arrival.

The rock-studded beach, locally known as Kappakadavu, is a well-known tourist destination. There is a temple on a huge rock that juts out to the sea. The temple called ‘Uravupottum kaavu’ is believed to have been built about 800 years back.

In the olden days, Kappad was the gateway to Calicut (now Kozhikode), a major commercial centre frequented by traders from China, Arabia, Venice, Constantinople, Java and Alexandria.