This is where Vasco da Gama first landed in India

When Vasco da Gama had first landed in India, he did so in the state of Kerala. According to information we now know, the exact spot is Kappad Beach. Located in Kozhikode, the town of Kappad has gone down in history as the spot where Vasco da Gama reached. When in Kozhikode, you have got to visit this historic site.
Travellers, and history enthusiasts can today see an inscription here on a stone monument that says, Vasco da Gama landed here, Kappakadavu, in the year, 1498. The charming beach is much like most of Kerala's gorgeous beaches, but is certainly more special, thanks to this historic event. It is about 16 km away from the main town, and makes for a fantastic languid day trip.

The Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, is the first European to reach India by sea. He had made more than one voyage to India, and was responsible for opening up the sea route from Europe to India, or more broadly speaking, from the western world to the eastern world. The exact date of his landing in the country is recorded as May 20 in the year 1498.

The beach is also home to an ancient Hindu temple, and the deity is said to be about 800 years old. You can also go for a backwater trip in the nearby river, which is one of Kerala's most rewarding experiences.

Vasco da Gama's momentous trip to India is not completely clear of controversies. There is some doubt on the exact location of his landing, as some believe that the exact location in Kerala is at Panthalayini near Kollam. Historian M.G.S. Narayanan, for example, believes this to be true. According to him, Kozhikode did not even have a port back in those days, but Panthalayini did have one.

Interestingly, Vasco da Gama died in Kerala's Kochi during his third trip in the country, and was buried at the ancient St. Francis Church in the city. The church was built back in 1503.