Kappad, or Kappakadavu locally, is a famous beach near Kozhikode, India, where the Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama landed on 20 May 1498. His voyage established the sea route from Europe to India. This established a permanent route from Europe to India. This heralded the arrival and permanent presence of various European merchant companies, leading to eventual domination and rule by the East India Company and later the period of British colonial rule. For the people of Kozhikode, this pleasant stretch of rock studded beach is known as Kappakkadavu. A small stone monument commemorates the landing by Vasco da Gama with the inscription, "Vasco da Gama landed here, Kappakadavu, in the year 1498." His expedition gave the Europeans a sea route to reach the wealth of the Malabar Coast, and resulted in European domination of India for about 450 years. At that time Malabar was ruled by the Zamorins ("Samoothiris", in the local language) who gave a warm welcome to Gama. Malabar was abundant in spices, and produced calico textile. Currently it is one of the most important tourist places in Kerala, with a wide and beautiful beach. As per the historical notes obtained later from the diarist who accompanied Gama in his voyage, Gama landed at Panthalayani, the then famous port in Kerala 5 km away from Kappad. William Logan in his "Malabar Manual" clearly stated that Gama landed at Panthalayani as per the direction of Zamorins, the King of Kozhikode. In 2007 a R.s. 1.5-crore program to beautify the beach was launched by Tourism Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan. It is now completed and Kappad beach has a beautiful corniche and park. The park includes a restroom, restaurant and seating. The nearest railway station is Kozhikode, about 16 km away from Kappad. The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport (also known as Karipur Airport), which is about 23 km from the town of Kozhikode. Private transport buses are available from the main bus stand, or you can reach the beach by stopping at Thiruvangoor on National Highway 66 (Old 17) between Kozhikode and Vatakara.