Bekal Fort Guide
Bekal Fort: Where History Meets the Arabian Sea Guide
Bekal Fort, a majestic historical landmark in Kasaragod district, Kerala, stands proudly overlooking the Arabian Sea. This imposing fort, with its laterite walls and strategic location, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding landscape. It's a popular tourist destination, attracting history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a glimpse into Kerala's rich past. Bekal Fort's history is intertwined with the rise and fall of various dynasties in the region. While its exact origins are debated, it's believed to have been built by the Shivappa Nayaka of Bednore in the 17th century. Later, it came under the control of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan before eventually falling into the hands of the British East India Company. The fort served as a strategic military outpost and a vital trading center throughout its history. Visitors can explore the fort's ramparts, bastions, and observation towers, imagining the lives of the soldiers who once guarded its walls. The fort complex also includes a mosque built by Tipu Sultan and an ancient Hanuman temple. The beach adjacent to the fort is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the nearby Bekal Hole Aqua Park offers water-based activities. While Bekal Fort itself doesn't have specific culinary traditions, the surrounding area offers a variety of seafood restaurants serving fresh catches from the Arabian Sea. Try the local Malabar cuisine, known for its flavorful spices and unique preparations.
Transportation
The nearest railway station is Kasaragod. From Kasaragod, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bekal Fort. Buses to Bekal are frequent from the Kasaragod bus stand. Alternatively, you can take a train to Kanhangad railway station and then hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Bekal Fort, which is approximately 12 km away.
Opening Hours
8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Ticket Price
INR 25 for adults, INR 10 for children