The Bekal Fort (16 km south of Kasaragod on the national highway): On a vast 35 acre headland that runs into the Arabian sea stands the Bekal Fort, an imposing circular structure of laterite rising 130 ft. above sea level. More than 300 years old, the Fort has a chequered history, making it an interesting excavation site. Owing to its historic importance, the Fort is now under the control of the Archaeological Survey of India. The Bekal Fort is the largest and best preserved of its kind in Kerala.

History

Bekal was under the sovereignty of Kolathunadu when it became an important maritime centre and an important port town of Thulunadu (old Kasaragod district). Later, realising the political and economic importance of Thulunadu, many leudatory chieftains successively attacked and annexed this part of the country. The economic importance of the port town prompted the Nayak dynasty to fortify Bekal.

The Bekal Fort was completed speedily during the period of Sivappa Nayak to defend the port from overseas attack. The Chandragiri Fort near Kasaragod was also constructed during this period.

It is believed that the "Kotteyar" community found in Bekal, Panayal and other places in Kasaragod were brought here by the Nayaks to build and defend the forts. Bekal subsequently fell into the hands of the Mysore Sultans.

It then served as an important military station of Tipu Sultan when he led the great military expedition to Malabar. Coins and other artifacts unearthed by archeologists excavation at the Bekal Fort are an indication of the occupancy of the Mysore Sultans.

Years later, the East India Company made Bekal the headquarters of the newly organised Bekal Taluk of the South Canara District of Bombay Presidency. South Canara then became a part of the Madras Presidency in 1862 and Kasaragod Taluk was set up in place of Bekal Taluk. Gradually the political and economic importance of Bekal and its port declined considerably.

Kasaragod became part of Kerala with the State reorganisation in 1956.

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At the Bekal Fort

Anjaneya Temple: The temple at the entrance of the fort is dedicated to Sree Hanuman. Said to be as old as the fort itself, the shrine was recently renovated and attracts hundreds of devotees from far and near.

Mosque: The old mosque, newly renovated, stands just outside the fort. It is believed to have been built by Tippu Sultan of Mysore.

Observation Tower: Situated in the middle of the fort, the observation tower is the most visible landmark in the area. The structure, around 80 ft. in circumference at the base and more than 30 ft. high, commands a magnificent view of the sea to the south, north and west, and the green landscape to the east. The observation tower was a vantage point in the effective defence of the fort.

The Sea Bastion: Located on the rocky outcrop west of the fort, the bastion is a unique structure which offers a breathtaking view of the sea and beach. Having undergone extensive restoration, it is now a favourite spot with tourists.

Underground Passages: It is believed that there were many underground passages leading outside from various parts of the fort. Two of them are still intact, one leading to the southern face of the fort and the other to the moat on the east.

Seaside Pathway: The seafront of the fort is best viewed along the pathway, linking the beaches at the north and south of the battlement. The pathway is a magnificent walk, with the imposing facade of the fort wall to the east and the shimmering sea to the west. En route are cosy grottos that serve as ideal picnic spots. The seaside pathway has been developed by Bekal Resorts Development Corporation to enhance the Bekal experience.

The Magazine: The ancient magazine used to store weapons and ammunition is presently closed to the public and managed by the Archaeological Survey of India.

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Access

Air: Nearest airports: Mangalore (50 km); Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode (200 km)

Rail: On the Kozhikode-Mangalore-Mumbai route. Enquiry Ph: 430200

Road: An excellent network of roads connects Kasaragod to major towns in Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

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Beaches

Kasaragod is located on the shores of the Arabian Sea and was once the gateway to the Malabar Coast. The long coastline is dotted with some sensational palm-fringed virgin beaches washed by the pleasant tropical sun and soothing waves. You can enjoy spectacular sunsets here.

Bekal Fort Beach (1 km from Bekal Fort): This shallow beach offers a spectacular view of the imposing Bekal Fort and has ample facilities for recreation and relaxation.

Kappil Beach (6 km from Bekal Fort): Remote and secluded, this beautiful palm-fringed beach is fast becoming a major tourist attraction. The Kodi cliff nearby offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea.

Kanwatheertha Beach (3 km from Manjeswaram): The sea has formed a large swimming pool-like formation on this beach.

Pandiyan Kallu: A rock rising in the sea about 2 km from the Trikkannad Temple, Pandiyan Kallu is an ideal spot for adventurous swimmers. Legend has it that the ship of one of the Pandiya Kings who attacked the Trikkannad Temple was converted into a rock.

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