Bekal Fort

I am sure most of you have heard song and seen its video from Movie "Bombay" Tu hi ray. Off course the song and music was great but there was another main attraction the majestic Bekal fort and superb view of sea.

The 300-year-old Bekal Fort, shaped like a giant key-hole, is one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Kerala. Surrounded by a splendid beach, offers a superb view of the Arabian Sea from its tall observation towers, where a few centuries ago huge cannons used to be placed.



I visited this fort as part of my Mangalore trip. Early morning bus from Mangalore, reached Kumbla (42 km), spent some time in Ananthapura Lake temple and then another bus to Kasargod (20 km). From Kasargod you can take another bus to Bekal fort which is 15-17 km.

Before exploring bekal fort, Arun & I decided to take early lunch. Hotel Bekal Palace is good place to stay and food. Our plan was to have traditional kerala fish curries, parota and rice. But we were informed because of some festival, supply of fishes are very low and at that time there is no fish item. Disappointed but we settled for ghee roast chicken which was great.

After heavy lunch, we found one auto ricksha and reached Bekal Fort.






Its very old fort but very well maintained, well preserved. ASI is taking care of this fort now. Reading more about this fort revealed that it was under the control of various empires including Vijaynaga, Tipu Sultan and British.The fort is spread across around forty acres on the Malabar coast overlooking the Arabian sea. You will see a large water tank and observation tower. Fort was not a center of administration, for no remains of any palace, mansion or such buildings are found within the fort. Arguably the fort was built especially for fulfilling defense requirements.

 

 

There was small opening to the sea, where you can find steps, The walk there was wonderful with nice soothing breeze from sea.


 

 There is also an extended beach, looks very much beautiful.








Bekal fort is well known but not getting more attention it deserve or tourist as expected. Kerala govt is trying their best to promote this place. What I have seen there are also many stunning beaches, backwaters and hill stations in and around Bekal. Staying there is not an issue, apart from many mid range hotel, five star facilitates are also setup, as of now, two resorts have already come up Vivanta by Taj and the Lalit Resort and Spa. This place is well connected and frequent buses from Kasargod. Road condition is excellent.


If you are looking for peaceful and quite place, clean beaches, backwater and the majestic fort, then this place is for you.