KERALA TRAVEL GUIDE: WHY BEKAL

SHOULD BE ON YOUR ITINERARY

1 - Forts that Will Captivate You

The majesty of Bekal’s forts draws everyone, history aficionado or not. To begin with, the 17th-century Bekal Fort has a long history spanning the reigns of the Nayakas of Keladi, Tipu Sultan and finally, the British East India Company. While the magnificent seascape views from the ramparts will take up much of your attention, the fort itself merits exploration - the massive stone walls, water tank, and underground tunnels reflect the sophisticated military architecture of the region’s late medieval kingdoms.

Another 17th-century fort built by the Nayakas of Keladi is the Chandragiri Fort located on the banks of the Chandragiri or Payaswini River. The walls of this fort still bear the marks of cannonball attacks, a testimony to its turbulent past. Again, the panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and surrounding scenery constitute the primary highlight of this rugged, protected monument.

2 - Beaches & Backwaters You Will Fall in Love With

Adjacent to Bekal Fort lies Bekal Beach, a coastal idyll of azure waters, golden sand and swaying palm and Casuarina trees. For beach lovers, lounging on or strolling along the sun-kissed beach and engaging in seasonal water sports would be among the best things to do in Bekal.

Those longing for quieter shores can head to Chembirikka Beach, located at the confluence of the Chembirikka River and the Arabian Sea. The area also holds some historical significance. Located only a short distance from Chembirikka Beach is the Kalanad Tunnel, Kerala’s longest railway tunnel, constructed over a century ago by the British.

Located about 30 km from Bekal is the small island and fishing centre of Valiyaparamba. Fed by four rivers, the picturesque backwater stretches of Valiyaparamba beckon you with tranquil houseboat cruises that offer a glimpse into the laid-back rural life of the Malabar coast.

3 - Spiritual Destinations that Will Soothe Your Soul

Bekal and its adjoining areas are dotted with sacred monuments of different religions.

Said to be built in the 9th century, the beautiful Ananthapura Lake Temple is revered as the moolasthanam (original abode) of Ananthapadmanabha, the deity of the famed Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. The temple’s origins remain shrouded in a tangle of myths and legends.

Another spiritual landmark is the Sree Madanantheswara Sidhivinayaka Temple, or the Madhur Temple, located on the banks of the Madhuvahini River. Built by the Mypadi rulers of Kumbla in the 10th century, Madhur Temple has a fascinating design that weds Hindu and Jain architectural styles.

The Malik Dinar Mosque is one of India’s oldest mosques, believed to have been built in 642 AD by Malik Ibn Dinar, an Arab Islamic missionary widely credited with spreading Islam in Kerala. Known for its unique architecture, the two-storeyed mosque is the venue of the Uroos festival, a lively celebration commemorating the arrival of Malik Dinar to Kerala.

Another prominent place of worship is the Bela Church, or Our Lady of Sorrows Church, a Roman Catholic church built in 1890. As the oldest church in the Kasargod district, it evokes awe and admiration owing to both its stunning Gothic exterior and its artistic interior.

4 - Food that Will Tantalise Your Taste Buds

The best places to visit in Kerala are invariably the ones with the richest culinary treasures. While Malabari cuisine in general is deservedly feted, the indigenous fare of Kasaragod is exceptional owing to the myriad influences that have fashioned it – Arab, European, Tulu and local Malabari traditions.

One of the must-try dishes is Chicken Sukka, a robustly flavoursome, semi-dry chicken curry made using generous amounts of shallots and coconut. It goes well with local breads like Pathiri and Malabar Parotta.

Piscetarians and seafood lovers cannot miss Arikadukka, a mussel dish delicately stuffed, steamed, spiced and fried.

Aromatic yet not overpowering in its use of spice, the Malabar Dum Biryani is universally loved and might be regarded by some as the crown jewel of the region’s culinary scene.

Other tasty items include Neerdosha, a savoury rice crêpe, and Neypathal, a ghee-fried rice flour flatbread.

There are sweets aplenty too. Unnakaya, a deep-fried snack made with banana and coconut, and the Portuguese-inspired Muttamala, or “egg necklace”, a preparation of sweetened egg yolk threads, are sure to leave you asking for more.

5 - Festivals You Will Want to Experience

Kerala is home to some of the most unique festivals in the world, and Bekal is no exception.

Held in March-April, the five-day Mallikarjuna Temple festival is a glittering pageantry of rituals, music and dance, including Yakshagana performances.

The spectacular festivals of Kalasam – held in May-June – and Pattulsavam – held in December-January – at the Madiyankulam Durga Temple are veritable cultural feasts that showcase the region’s folk fervour. Ancient rituals, fireworks displays and Theyyam performances come together to create one dazzling spectacle.

There are contemporary celebrations too. The 10-day Bekal International Beach Festival is a potpourri of the modern and traditional, where you can enjoy traditional performances like Theyyam and Alamikkali as much as you can shop at flea markets, explore local food festivals, take part in water sports and admire sand art displays.

If you are looking to book 5-star hotels in Bekal, look no further than Gateway Bekal. One of the most scenic luxury resorts in Kerala, Gateway Bekal spans 30 acres in the midst of the Bekal backwaters near Bekal Fort. The hotel offers tastefully appointed rooms, cottages and suites with garden and waterfront views, inviting you to bask in the lap of nature, enjoy authentic Malabar cuisine, rejuvenate with Ayurvedic wellness therapies, and revel in immersive backwater and cultural experiences. Blending Taj’s signature hospitality with modern luxury and the breathtaking beauty of Kerala, Gateway Bekal promises a stay you will long cherish.

Bekal awaits your arrival. Book your stay at Gateway Bekal today.