Bekal Fort, Kerala – A Complete Travel Guide

By - August 15, 2023 - Kerala
Bekal Fort Kasaragod Kerala

A gigantic building shaped like a keyhole, Bekal Fort is the epitome of ancient architecture. Kerala is a land of greenery and amazing tourist attractions that represent the true beauty of India. The state exhibits a beauty that is second to none, a trip to India is incomplete without a visit to Kerala. While the famous beaches and temples of Kerala are visited by tourists, architecture geeks make sure to add Bekal Fort to their list.

The fort holds great value in terms of history and is a tribute to the unique architectural style of the era. If you are in Kerala, take a reroute from your trip and head for this historic box of tales and events located in the beautiful small town of Kasargod.

Bekal Fort, Kerala- A historic treasure

Bekal Fort sits in nature’s finest beauty where land and sea meet, making it a lifetime of experience for visitors who love nature and appreciate history. The fort was built 300 years ago which in itself enhances the enthusiasm of every visitor.

Constructed by the great King Shivappa Nayak, the fort served as the residing place for several rulers of the future generations as well. There are theories suggesting that the fort was used by Sultans and Britishers as a stronghold.

While the original work was done by Shivappa Nayak, every new ruler added small elements to their reign which makes the present-day fort even more charming. Representing a blend of different era architectural styles, Bekal Fort is a beauty worth exploring.

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Bekal Fort, Kerala – Architecture

 

Standing to a magnificent height of 130 feet and covering a whopping 40 acres of area, Bekal Fort is majestic in all aspects. Shaped like a giant keyhole with impressive zigzag patterned stairs on the outside, it represents the smartness of builders at that time. As the fort served as a place for defense primarily, the construction exhibits several elements from the tactics and strategies of the rulers who contributed to the making of the fort.

As you stand in front of the fort, you are left amazed by its 12-meter height walls on an average and tactically planned opening that probably offers a view of enemies. There is a separate observation tower that was designed to keep an eye on enemies as it features multiple peepholes. When you observe these peepholes closely you can see a pattern where the topmost served as an attacking point for enemies at a distance, the lower ones were used for enemies who have stepped closer to the fort.

Discovering Bekal Fort: Your Journey Begins Here

Things to Explore Bekal Fort

  • Observation Tower– The tower serves as the focal point of attraction in the fort. Each aspect of the observation tower represents the clever strategies of rulers at that point. A close look at the building makes you realize how rulers used architectural technology to their advantage and won several wars even in lack of actual technology and developed weapons. Located in the middle of the fort it stands at a height of 30 feet.
  • The mosque and Anjaneya Temple– What leaves you in awe of the Bekal Fort is the presence of both temple and a mosque in its complex. As the fort was under the rule of both Hindu and Islamic rulers, their religious beliefs were respected and kept intact. The Anjaneya Temple is devoted to Lord Hanuman and the Mosque was a work of Tipu Sultan.
  • Passages– Underground passages were the finest weapon that rulers in the 15-16th century possessed. You can explore these underground passages that connect different regions. While most of them are closed for safety reasons, you are welcome to take a walk inside two passages connecting the whole fort.
  • Sunset and the sea bastion– Once you are done exploring the architectural glory of the Bekal fort, it is time to take in its beauty. The Sea Bastion gives you a mesmerizing view of the Arabian sea and witnessing sunset is all things magical.

How to Reach Bekal Fort

Bekal Fort is located in the beautiful Kasargod town of Kerala making it convenient to reach from different locations.

  • By Plane: The nearest Airport is the Mangaluru International Airport. About 70 km from the fort, you can find taxis from the airport to reach Kasargod.
  • By Train: Kasaragod has its railway station. However, being a small town the connectivity is limited so make sure to check.
  • By Road: The most convenient and recommended way of commuting is by road. Kerala is a beautiful land with the finest road connectivity which makes it worth the ride.
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Timings and Fee Bekal Fort

  • Visiting Hours: 08:00 AM – 05:30 PM
  • Days: Open every day (except National Holidays)
  • Entry Fee: ₹20 for Indians and ₹100 for foreigners

Nearby Attractions of Bekal Fort

When in Kasargod, you can not finish the trip with your visit to Bekal Fort. The town and its neighboring areas have breathtaking options packed for you.

  • Bekal Fort Beach: The Arabian Sea Beach is a must-visit place. Enjoy a perfect picnic with your friends while endowing the beautiful sunset. The Bekal Beach Festival is hosted every year and you can match your trip timings accordingly.
  • Forts: Apart from the legendary Bekal fort, several other forts will please your history-loving soul. The nearest ones are Chandragiri Fort and Hosdurg Fort.
  • Ananthapura Lake Temple: A popular tourist attraction, the temple exhibits a true Kerala architecture style. Built in the 9th century, the temple is surrounded by a rectangular lake adding to its beauty.
  • Backwaters: Once you step foot in Kerala, you can not go back without experiencing the magic of backwaters. The Valiyaparamba backwaters can be the starting point of exploration in Bekal as it is at the finest moment in the mornings.
  • Shopping and Food: Endeavour the authentic South-Indian taste at every local cafe/hotel. Homely meals and warmth here make you want to come back. Collect souvenirs from local shops at the beach.

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