Bekal - a jewel of Kerala

Overview

Renowned for its beautiful seashore, clean sandy beaches, palm grooves, green hills and calm backwaters, Bekal is a quaint destination situated in Kasargod district of Kerala. Bekal is one of the most picturesque regions in the ‘God’s Own Country’ – Kerala and equally famous for its historic importance and nicely preserved Bekal Fort. Historically Bekal has been an important port town during the rule of famous Kolathiries and other erstwhile dynasties. The past rulers of Bekal had constructed a number of forts, temples and other structures that still speak about the architectural styles and rich cultural heritage of the bygone era. Far from the glitz and mundane city life, Bekal is an excellent place to enjoy a laidback vacation in the lap of nature along with traditional hospitality of Kerala. 

Bekal Fort

Fast Facts                                                                                                  

Main Languages: Malayalam is the main language spoken by locals. People also speak Kannada and other South Indian languages along with Hindi.

When to Go: The climate of Bekal is temperate in nature marked by hot summer season (March to June), monsoon season with heavy rainfalls (June to September) and mild winters (December to February). October to March is considered the best time to visit Bekal.

Local Transport: You can hire a private vehicle to explore the town of Bekal. The major tourist attractions of Bekal can also be covered on foot.

Currency: Indian Rupee (INR) 1 USD is approximately 48 INR

Voltage: 230V / 50Hz

Time Zone: Indian Standard Time (UTC +5:30)

Location: On the coast of Arabian Sea in Kasargod district, Kerala.

Nearest Metropolis: Bangalore – 375 km away

Eating

Enjoy mouth-watering delicacies of Kerala at Bekal and other parts of Kasargod district as well. Although you will not find any luxury restaurant in the town, but the small and big eateries are enough to please your taste buds. Like most parts of South India, rice constitutes the main meal of Bekal and served along with different types of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Sea food like lobsters and prawns can also be savoured at Bekal. Eat whatever you wish as almost all the dishes offered by the eateries around Bekal are quite cheap and need not to worry about the prices.

Shopping

Bekal is not a shopper’s paradise, so the shopaholics have to find out the shopping possibilities from the limited options. Explore the small markets in Kasargod district and choose from the knickknacks to carry as a souvenir for yourself and family members. Locally manufactured handicrafts, woodcrafts, sarees, seashell objects, pickles, etc. can be bought while shopping in Bekal. Bargaining is common in Bekal and it is recommended to buy the items at almost exact price.  

Sightseeing

Bekal Fort is the principal landmark of Bekal that draws visitors in large numbers. Constructed by Shivappa Naik of Ikkeri dynasty between 1645 and 1660 AD, Bekal Fort is one of the well preserved forts in Kerala. An imposing rounded laterite structure, Bekal Fort stands on a promontory along the Arabian Sea soaring about 130 feet above sea level and covers an area of about 40 acres. Major highlights of Bekal Fort are the massive tanks and the tunnel entrance in the south. From the top of the fort you can enjoy breathtaking views of the serene beaches including the vast sea. Just at the entrance of the fort there is a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. You can also see an old mosque nearby that is believed to be built by Mysore King – Tipu Sultan.

After passing a good time in Bekal Fort move outside and cover the nearby tourist attractions. The beach adjacent to Bekal Fort is ideal to spend relaxing moments amidst tranquil surroundings. Also explore the nearby beaches like Kappil Beach, Pallikere Beach, Hosdurg Beach, and Kanwatheertha Beach. Besides Bekal Fort Beach, other beaches in Bekal offer a mesmerising view of the sunset over the Arabian Sea. Chandragiri Fort is another place of historic significance in Kasargod district that lies on a 183 metre high hill. Built in the 17th century AD, Chandragiri Fort offers a spectacular view of the Arabian Sea. Ananthapura Temple, Malik Deena Masjid (mosque), Kodi Cliffs and Nityanandashram Caves are other places of tourist interest around Bekal.

Activities

Leisurely stroll along the beautiful countryside of Bekal is a favoured activity among the visitors. You can cover the tourist attractions of Bekal including white sandy beaches on foot and experience the unspoiled nature at its best. Climb atop the rocky cliffs and hills on the coast of Arabian Sea and get the magnificent view of the sea and nearby areas. After a hectic day of sightseeing around Bekal, pay a visit to Bekal Hole Aqua Park, which is considered a heaven for water sports lovers as well as discerning tourists. You can enjoy thrilling water rides like pedal boats and water cycles in the aqua park.

A holiday in Bekal is incomplete without a cruise in the traditionally decorated Kettuvallom (houseboat) across the tranquil backwaters of Malabar region. Interestingly some houseboats are sophisticatedly designed and offers star hotel like accommodation facilities with single, double and triple bedroom options. Hence you can book a houseboat and enjoy a memorable stay with access to luxurious amenities.     

Events

Onam (August / September) is celebrated at a massive level in Kasargod like other parts of Kerala. Locals dress themselves in colourful attire and participate in fun-filled activities including dance and music performances. If you visit Bekal during Onam, don’t miss the opportunity to participate in the unique festivities that showcase old culture and traditions. ‘Theyyam’ - the folk art form of Kerala is performed in houses and temples of Bekal at frequent intervals from January to March. People in Bekal and nearby areas celebrate many other festivals with great pomp and gaiety.

Nightlife

After the sunset the whole Kasargod district including Bekal virtually sleeps. Don’t expect anything happening to do in the night. However, during important festivals and special occasions various types of events are organised in the night that can be a good option for you.

Excursions

Nileswaram also called Nilakanta Iswar is a historic spot and once served as the seat of the Nileswaram rulers. Referred to as the cultural centre of Kasargod district, Nileswaram is known for Kavil Bhavan Yoga & Cultural Centre, and temples and their related festivals. Situated about 20 km away from Bekal, Valiyaparamba is one of the most picturesque backwater stretches in Kerala. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy an amazing ride in a houseboat through the azure water of Valiyaparamba Backwaters. The lush green paddy fields and swaying palm groves add more beauty to the backwaters of Valiyaparamba. Mangalore (60 km), Kukke Subramanya (105 km), Thalassery (110 km), Madikeri (115 km) and Udupi (120 km) are some of the popular nearby spots from Bekal.

Getting There

Air: The nearest airport from Bekal is located in Mangalore, about 60 km away. Mangalore Airport is served by domestic flights from many cities of India and some international flights from the cities of Middle East. You can hire a taxi at Mangalore Airport for Bekal that costs around Rs. 800 – 1000. Kozhikode (Karipur) International Airport (175 km) is the nearest major international airport from Bekal. Taxis are available at Kozhikode International Airport that charges Rs. 3500 – 4000 for Bekal.

Rail: Bekal has not its own railway station, so you have to board a train to the nearby railheads Kanhangad (12 km) or Kasargod (12 km). After reaching to any of the two railway stations, you can take a taxi that costs around Rs. 300.

Road: Bekal is connected by good motorable roads with cities of Kerala, and nearby states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) and private buses ply at regular intervals to and from Bekal.  

Driving directions: From Kozhikode – Start from Calicut Trunk Road (NH 17) and drive on the same road to reach Bekal crossing Mahe, Thalassery and Kannur en-route (175 km, 5 hours approx).

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