A trip to the beach means getting out of the car a little early, walking barefoot on the sand. The feeling of crunching sand under your feet will end with the crashing waves of the sea. But there are exceptions. If you are planning to visit Kerala during the upcoming Puja holidays, the name of Muzhappilangad Beach (Durga Puja 2026) must be on the list.
Located near Thalassery in Kannur district, this beach is one of the longest drive-in beaches in Asia. That is, do not get out of the car. If you want a car, you can go directly to the water. If you lower the window glass and raise your face, the splash of salt water will hit your eyes.
Driving on the beach sand is also permitted here. Waves on one side, open sky on the other side – in this way, about four kilometers can be covered. Tourists ride bikes as well as cars on this wide beach. It is also a popular vacation spot for locals.
There is no specific driving track in Muzhappilangad. Entering the beach through the entrance, one can drive freely on the hard sand. But it is important to know the tide time before going. At low tide most of the beach is above water and the sand is relatively firm. During high tide, some of the sand becomes slippery and muddy. As a result, the wheels of the car can skid if careless. So even if there is no risk of driving on certain tracks, it is better to avoid this task by inept drivers. Bathing is not always safe due to ocean currents, so it is best to follow local guidelines and safety rules.
Morning or afternoon are comfortable times to visit this beach, when the sun is less. But the beauty of Mujappilangad is not limited to the drive. Casuarina trees line the back of this tranquil beach that stretches along the shores of the Arabian Sea. Nearby is the small island of Dharmadam in the sea. It has become very attractive to tourists as it can be reached through shallow water during low tide.
In the nearby town of Thalassery, you can also visit the food and culture of Malabar. Famous Thalassery biryani, old lighthouse and colonial architecture introduce the tourist to the history of the city.