Ezhimala, the imposing mountainous region on the seashore that borders the western part of Payyanur, had played a significant role in the history of the country. This was the head quarters of the Ezhimala Rajya during the Sang period. In Sang literatures, this area is referred to as “ezhil malai” which means high hillock. It is believed that in the later years ezhilmalai reduced to ezhimala. This region is also known as “Elimala”, “Mooshika Sailam”, “Sapta Sailam”,”Mount Eli” and “Mount the Eli” in the history. It was the seat of the renowned Mooshika dynasty. This dynasty reached its zenith of glory during the regime of King Nandan. Ezhimala was a well-known landmark of the ancient sailors. The relics of the past indicate that it was an inhabited region from the very ancient past. The burial chambers, caves, granite-platforms are indications of this.

The beautiful beach in Ezhimala and the nearby hillock, which is 286 m high, is a major tourist attraction. Carved stone pillars, an ancient mosque and an ancient burial chamber can be seen at the foot of the hills. The hills are noted for rare medicinal herbs. The Mount Dilli LightHouse here remained a tourist attraction until this area was acquired by the Govt. of India for the development of Naval Academy.
A Naval Academy is being developed here. The Naval project whose estimated cost is around 500 crores will be largest of its kind in the whole Asia. It is believed that the completion of this massive project will change the whole face of this region. Permission is required for entry to these premises from the Naval Academy Authorities.