Witness Ancient Architectural Grandeur In Historic Mananchira Square

If the Eiffel Tower is the iconic landmark of Paris then Mananchira Square is the official signpost of Kozhikode

. Located in the heart of Calicut City this ancient pond has dominated the citys landscapes and travel itineraries worldwide for its historic significance and truly monolithic proportions. As a celebrated remnant of ancient splendour the unique architectural design of King Vikrama still retains its awe inspiring grandeur. Deriving its name from the famed Zamoothiri Emperor Manadevan and the Malayalam term for pond, Mananchira literally translates to Manadevan's pond in the local dialect. Having been used as a palace courtyard and royal bathing tank in the days of the Zamoothiri Empire, it was declared a recreational hub open to the public in the early 1990s. Maintained by the City Corporation of Kozhikode this ancient landmark serves as the lively venue for many a cultural festival in North Kerala due to its scenic setting and historic legacy.

With the entirety of its environs surrounded by a laterite-sculptured wall, a record 250 colonial style lampposts encircle the pond creating a spectacle of light when illuminated at dusk. In addition to the sight of the larger than life royal pond other highlights of a visit to Mananchira Square include its captivating musical fountains that spurt water to the rhythms of music. As one of the citys favourite picnic spots, the expansive green grassy grounds or maidan at the square are also an idyllic locale to spend a quiet afternoon as the beautifully landscaped environment of the square is also lined with tall trees, lawns and towering sculptures of Paday Ali and V.K. Krishna Menon. A man-made stream and an open-air theatre are also part of the square while visitors will hear the soothing sounds of pipe music upon their arrival at the square.

Owing to its central position the square is literally surrounded by some of the citys most important sites. These include the Town hall, famed Mashkaal Mosque, Lalitakala Academy hall and the Commonwealth Trust Office while the Muchhandipalli Mosque, Jama'atpalli Mosque and the Kozhikode public library are also in the vicinity.

Those in search of a luxury Calicut hotel can find no better alternative to The Gateway Hotel Beach Road Calicut. Ideally located within walking distance of the beach, this sprawling property is also just 28km from the airport and 1.5km from the nearest railway station.

by: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

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