Book cheap flights to Calicut (Kozikhode)

If you can stand the heat, summer (March-May) is a great time to visit Calicut to avoid torrential downpours and humid monsoon season, which takes place from June to October. Winter offers a more pleasant experience between October and February, when temperatures cool down to an average of 22°C, making it ideal for sightseeing. If you’re around between February and April, check out the Pooram, Memunda, Shivrati and Kaliatta Mahotasavam festivals.

South African passport holders require a visa for India for stays of up to 180 days (6 months). Both e-visas and regular tourist visas are issued free of charge. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of departure and contains three blank pages.

Apply for your e-visa online.

VFS Global handles regular tourist visas, valid for up to 6 months.

Calicut, like much of India, is affected by poverty so use common sense and remain vigilant as you would in any other unfamiliar country. Travel insurance to cover theft and medical expenses is highly recommended.

Avoid carrying large sums of cash and valuables, as pick-pocketing does happen. Avoid travelling alone at night and through isolated areas (especially women). It is recommended that you familiarise yourself with the local laws and customs before arriving.

Food poisoning is a big problem throughout India. Avoid street food and stick to busy restaurants. Meat and shellfish should be avoided and only drink bottled water.

Malaria, dengue and other insect-borne diseases are prevalent, so medication is required and the necessary precautions should be taken to avoid bites. Immunisation against yellow fever, hepatitis A & B, typhoid, TB, cholera, Japanese B Encephalitis and rabies is recommended. Ensure that other routine vaccinations are up to date.