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.
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| 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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