Kannur, once known as Cannanore, is a beautiful city located in the northern part of Kerala State, India. Kannur, a beach town, is one of the larger cities in Kerala and the administrative headquarters of Kannur district. The district consists of many towns and villages including Thalassery town (called Telicherry during the colonial era), the first heritage town of Kerala due to its historical significance. Kannur, often known as the “crown of Kerala” because of its natural treasures, is bordered by the Western Ghats to the east, Kozhikode and Wayanad districts to the south, Lakshadweep Sea (Laccadive Sea) to the west and Kasaragod in the north. Kannur is popularly known as the city of Looms and Lores because of the loom industry functioning in the district and ritualistic folk dance called Theyyam held in temples. Kannur has a rich culture, history, and traditions that are often connected with many scholars and legends from this region.

Kerala offers many popular tourist destinations of which Kannur is considered one of the best tourist spots in north Kerala. Kannur, on the other hand, is also one of the larger cities. As per the latest survey, the population of Kannur district is 2.5 million.

It is estimated that a large percentage of the district population is employed overseas, which is projected to increase in the coming years. The Government of Kerala has taken the initiative to develop the fourth International Airport at Mattannur, 25 kilometres from Kannur, which has been built and is owned and operated by Kannur International Airport Limited on Public Private Partnership model.