Kanhangad Municipality was officially declared on June 1, 1984, after previously functioning as a Special Grade Panchayat. 

Early History and Administration

  • Ancient Roots: Recent discoveries, including a 2,000-year-old Megalithic laterite burial chamber in Nittadukkam  show that human settlement in the area dates back to ancient times.
  • Medieval Period: Early Tamil literature mentions the region under Nanda Raja of Ezhimala. Clearer historical records emerge around the 8th century.
  • Colonial Era: The region is historically tied to the construction of the Hosdurg Fort (New Fort). Post-independence, Hosdurg was a sub-taluk of Kasaragod taluk in the undivided Madras state/Malabar region. 

Formation of the Municipality

  • District Reorganization: Kasaragod district was carved out on May 24, 1984, from Kannur district.
  • Municipal Status: Shortly after, Kanhangad Municipality was formed on June 1, 1984.
  • First Council: The first elected municipal council officially took office on February 8, 1988, with K. M. Shamsudheen serving as the first chairperson. 

 

  • Key historical figures and freedom fighters from Kanhangad
  • Local tourist and spiritual attractions like Nithyananda Asram