Bekal Fort, a magnificent laterite fort nestled on a high point overlooking the Arabian Sea, is a captivating tourist destination surrounded by lush greenery and pristine beaches. This well preserved example of a medieval fort is located 16 km south of Kasaragod city in northern Kerala, India. This 17th century historic fort is the largest fort in Kerala spreading over 40 acres and offers visitors a glimpse into Kerala’s rich history, culture and superb views of the Arabian Sea.
Historically, Shivappa Nayaka, popularly known as Keladi Shivappa Nayaka, was an Indian king and ruler of the Keladi Nayaka Kingdom who built the Bekal Fort in 1650 AD. The Keladi Nayakas were successors to the Vijayanagara Empire in the coastal and Malnad districts of Karnataka, India, in the late 16th century. The fort was later captured by Hyder Ali, the ruler of Mysore, and then by Tipu Sultan. After Tipu Sultan’s death in 1799, the fort came under British control. Bekal Fort was used as a military stronghold by various rulers over the centuries, including the Keladi Nayakas, Hyder Ali, and Tipu Sultan. The fort was also a strategic trading post, and it is said that Vasco da Gama himself visited the fort in the 16th century.
The fort is built of laterite, a type of volcanic rock that is found in abundance in Kerala. The fort has a number of features that are typical of medieval forts, including bastions, towers, and a moat. It also has a number of temples and shrines, including the Anjenaya Temple, which is dedicated to Hanuman.
Take a visual tour of Bekal Fort with me, captured on a short trip on 8th September, 2023, a captivating setting for the Bollywood masterpiece “Bombay”. The film’s song “Tu Hi Re” made the fort even more iconic.
Quick Facts and Tips
- Best time to Visit: October to February
- October to February (Winter): Pleasant weather, sunny skies, less crowded, can be windy and dusty.
- March to May (Summer): Long days, vibrant colors, but too hot and humid weather, more crowded.
- Monsoon (June to September): Fewer tourists, lush greenery, but wet and slippery conditions, some attractions may be closed.
- How to Reach: There are three main ways to reach Bekal Fort: by air, by train and road.
- By air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, which is about 73 km (approximately 2hrs) away. You can hire a taxi or cab from the airport to the fort, which will cost around INR 1500-2000 depending on the season and type of vehicle you choose.
- By train: The nearest railway stations are Kasaragod Railway Station and Kanhangad Railway Station, which are both about 16 km from Bekal Fort. You can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from either railway station to the fort, which costs around INR 600-800.
- By road: Bekal Fort is well-connected, with regular bus services available from major cities like Mangalore in Karnataka and Kasaragod, Kannur in Kerala for less than INR 500. However, taking a taxi or cab is more convenient.
- Clothing: The weather in Kerala is generally hot and humid, so wear light and loose cotton clothes. There is no dress code but it is better to wear something that covers your knees and shoulders. Cotton Kurtis, Salwars, Long Skirts, Maxi dresses, Cotton Shirts, Pants, T-shirts, Blouses, Hats, Sunglasses and Comfortable Footwear.
- Accommodations: There are many accommodation options near Bekal Fort, as well as in larger cities like Mangalore and Kasaragod. Choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
- Bekal Fort offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses.
- For a truly unique accommodation experience, consider staying in one of the many houseboats docked on Bekal Beach. These floating abodes offer a relaxing and romantic way to experience the beauty of the Kerala coastline.
- Staying in larger cities like Mangalore and Kasaragod offers better options for hotels, prices, restaurants, and shopping.
- The official website for Bekal Fort is Bekal Tourism Development Corporation.
- The fort is open year round from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- There is an entrance fee about INR 15 to 25.
- Tickets can be purchased at ticket booths near the entry gates or online at this website
- It takes around 2 to 3 hours to fully cover Bekal Fort.
- Try to visit in the morning for cooler weather and less crowd.
- Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Take caution while walking on the fort walls, as they can be slippery in places.
- There are a number of food stalls and souvenir shops located just outside the fort.
- Restrooms are available within the fort, one at the entrance near the main gate and one near the Bekal Fort museum. There are also restrooms located outside the fort near the parking lot and souvenir shops.
- Best things to do
- Take a relaxed stroll through the fort’s imposing ramparts.
- Admire the intricate carvings and sculptures of the fort walls, bastions, observation towers, and water tanks.
- Take a moment to soak in the breathtaking views of the coastline and the deep blue waters beyond.
- Visit the Anjenaya Mandir, a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located at the entrance within the fort complex.
- Relax on the pristine Bekal Beach, known for its golden sand and clear waters.
- Enjoy the delicious fresh food and beverage at the local shacks.
- Go birdwatching in the fort’s lush surroundings.
- Have a picnic on the fort grounds.
- Take a romantic walk along the fort’s ramparts.