The Enchanting Bekal Fort: Your Ultimate Travel Guide!

Bekal Fort is one of the largest forts in Kasargod, Kerala, which is spreading over 40 acres and is bounded by the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea in the east and west respectively. In 1650 AD, the Bekar Fort was constructed by Sivappa Nayaka of Bednore.

Bekal Fort is an amazing tourist destination in the Kasargod district with breathtaking beautiful beauty. This place fascinates thousands of tourists to Bekal with strands of golden beach, and appealing backwaters with swaying palm trees in the backdrop. Hence, proposing a charming amalgamation of natural beauty that eyes have beheld. 

The Bekal Fort is constructed with Redstone on the coast of the Arabian Sea. In addition, there are diverse holes inside the fort, and from those holes, anyone can have amazing views of the sea but those watching from the sea cannot be able to view this which was very much helpful to view ships impending from far away soldiers. 

Location 

Formerly constructed by the Kadampa dynasty of Kerala, later on, this amazing fort was conquered and governed by Kolathiri and Vijaynagar rulers, the British army, and Tipu Sultan.

Positioned beside the attractive Bekal Beach, this earliest milestone is a box of diverse historic measures and tales! 

Climatic Conditions 

In Bekal, the weather remains beautiful and soothing owing to the existence of the Arabian Sea in the vicinity. Temperatures generally range between 20°C and 30°C on average. Trivial rainfall may be observed throughout the year owing to the tropical traits.

In Bekal, the month of winter offers the best conditions to relish Bekal’s assortment of natural beauties. The refreshing winds of Bekal’s evenings can assuredly lift the spirits of tourists. If winter is better known for contented tourism, then monsoons deliver adventurers with a chance to trek and track through these evergreen forests. 

History And Architecture Of Bekal Fort

A 300-year-old historic fort constructed in the structure of a massive keyhole, Bekal Fort across the town of Kasargod is one of the must-visit tourist destinations around Kerala! While the attractiveness of this historical fort is second to none, its brilliant architecture and location are along the coastline of the Arabian Sea.

Bekal Fort offers a superb view of the Arabian Sea from its tall observation towers located in god's own country #DekhoApnaDesh pic.twitter.com/7VS7vNFxGt

— Desi Thug (@desi_thug1) December 21, 2020

A prominent factor of the fort’s architecture is the outstanding usage of defense technology. Although, in 1650 AD, the Bekal Fort was built by ShivappaNayaka of Bednore. Throughout the Perumal Age Bekal was a segment of Mahodayapuram.

By the 12^th century AD, succeeding the political flagging of Mahodayapuram Perumals, North Kerala concerning Bekal, came under the power of Mushika or Kolathiri or Chirakkal Royal Family. Nearly 1763 A.D. the Bekal Fort was occupied by Haider Ali. 

Throughout Tip Sultans’ reign, it housed the Huzur of Canara. Later, it was incorporated into the dominions of the English East India Company. Whereas, its grand architecture will interest history admirers and art fanatics.

In addition, during the period of British regulation, the one-time South Canara District had a part of Bekal Taluk and was involved in the recent Hosdurg Taluks Kasargod. In 1965, the Kasargod became part of Kerala with the state reorganization. Moreover, the Fort has housed a temple devoted to Lord Hanuman, a water tank, and a mosque.

Tourists Attractions/ Things to Do

Mosque

The mosque is one the best tourist destinations near Bekal Fort which is built in typical Kerala style. Believers admire this Mosque as it has the grave of Malik Deenar. Mosque is constructed with carved massive wooden pillars which retain tranquility.

Moreover, inside the Mosque, everyone is welcome whether the person is Muslim or not. This Mosque carries a picturesque view of the Arabian Sea. 

Anjaneya Temple

The beautiful temple of Lord Hanuman is positioned at the entrance of the fort which was modified currently. To the devotees and visitors, it is one of the best attractions with a picturesque view of lush greenery. 

Sea Bastion

The Sea Bastion is another attraction that proposes a stunning view of the beach whereas, the Sea Bastion is on the rocky projection of the fort. 

Observation Tower

In the middle of the fantastic fort, the observation tower is located and can be arrived by climbing a couple of stairs. This tower is constructed by Tipu Sultan with its peepholes serving as the fort’s focal point.

The tower proposes astounding views of the rocky shoreline of the Arabian Sea due to its height of 30 ft and the circumference of the Arabian Sea. 

Underground Passages

Underground Passages are a great part of the fort’s structure as these tunnels lead to the outside from diverse locations. Whereas, two of these are still intact. 

Timings And Ticket Charges

The Bekal Fort is a famous tourist destination with magnificent historic structures as well as absorbing the serene beauty of the surrounding location. In 1992, the Bekal Fort has declared a special tourism area along with the cultural diversity and artistic legacy of the greater region of Kasargod.

The opening and closing timings of the Bekal Fort are 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. There is no holiday when this place is closed except on public holidays. Although, for Indians ticket charges are Rs. 5 INR/- per person whereas, for Foreigners it is Rs. 100 INR/- per person. 

Best Time To Visit Bekal Fort

Bekal is a beautiful small town set on the seashore of the Arabian Sea. The place appeals to tourists from all over the world with its attractive attractions. The place is identified to have mixed weather conditions all around the year.

To visit Bekal, the best time is from October to March, as the weather remains calm and dry. Throughout these months, you can celebrate sightseeing in an enjoyable atmosphere and cosset in Bekal’s outdoor activities. 

How To Reach Bekal Fort? 

By Road: The easiest route to arrive at Bekal is via road. Visitors can take the Kasargod-Kanhagad highway also named the NH 44 to drive into the beautiful beach destination. Also, from Kasargod, buses strand to and from Bekal, making the trip hassle-free.

Bekel is also well-linked to other cities such as Kochi, Mangalore, and Thrissur, making it effortlessly accessible. You can select to take private taxis and celebrate the ride to the beach.

By Train: The Kasargod Railway station is the closest station to the Bekal Beach destination. Once you arrive at the station, you can pick to take a bus, cab, or auto-rickshaw to arrive at the beach town.

By Air: The closest airport that links to Bekal is Mangalore International Airport. It is situated nearly 65 km from this delightful beach destination. Upon entrance at Mangalore airport, you can pick to rent a cab to arrive at Bekal Beach.

One another Airport that links to Bekal is the Calicut International Airport. It is nearly 200 km away from the picturesque beach destination.

Food And Accommodation 

A destination is best witnessed when you taste its food and see its culture. There are different places to eat and eating choices that involve fresh seafood and local Keralite delicacies. You can be seated by a seaside restaurant and savor a freshly caught fish, baked to your interest.

There are different sellers vending mouth-watering dishes with resident flavor and style. Moreover, for stay, 5 Star hotels and normal hotels are accessible at nearby locations of Bekal Fort, and Palakkunnu.

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