12 Places to Visit in Bekal for a Memorable Trip

Bekal might not be as popular as Kerala’s other famous tourist spots, and that’s the thing that makes it different.

The tranquil coastal town in the Kasaragod district is renowned for its historical sea fort, gorgeous beaches, and picturesque backwaters, as well as lush vegetation.

If you’re a history buff, a lover of nature, a photographer, or just seeking a relaxing getaway, Bekal has something for anyone.

The town is famous for its stunning Bekal Fort, one of the largest and most well-preserved forts of Kerala. Outside the Fort, visitors will discover tranquil beaches, riverside views, temples, and small islands, which make Bekal the perfect place to go for a weekend or a long-term vacation.

This guide has highlighted the top places to go in Bekal and their distance, timings, and admission fees, as well as the top activities to enjoy at each of the attractions.

1. Bekal Fort

Bekal Fort is one of the most well-known attractions in the area and should be a must for any visitor to Bekal. The 17th-century fort was built in Bekal.

The enormous fort is situated over the Arabian Sea and offers breathtaking views of the coast. As you walk along its stone paths, you’ll see watchtowers, old gateways, and beautiful gardens.

The fort is also used in a variety of Indian films, which makes it a sought-after location for photographers.

The distance to Bekal Railway Station

Approximately 2 km

Timings

8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Entry Fee

• Adults: Rs 25 (approx.)
• Children: Rs 5 (approx.)

Things to Do

• Take a stroll along the fort’s historic walls.
• Get panoramic views of the ocean.
• Take a trip to the observatory.
• See the sunset from the Arabian Sea.
• Capture stunning photos.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

2. Bekal Beach

The beach is located near the fort. Bekal Beach is one of the most serene and clean beaches in the northern part of Kerala. Golden sand, the gentle waves, and the landscaped pathways make it a perfect location for couples and families.

The beach is stunning at sunset, when the sky changes shades of pink and orange.

Distance

Around 2 km

Timings

All hours of the day.

Entry Fee

Free

Things to Do

• Enjoy the sunset.
• Enjoy a relaxing beach walk.
• Enjoy photography.
• Enjoy a relaxing time by the water.

3. Chandragiri Fort

It is situated on the banks of the Chandragiri River. Chandragiri Fort provides stunning perspectives of the river as it flows towards the Arabian Sea. While it is smaller in comparison to Bekal Fort, it is an excellent spot for those who love history and photography.

The serene environment makes it an ideal location to spend some time or two.

Distance from Bekal

Approximately 18 km

Timings

8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entry Fee

Nominal fee

Things to Do

• Explore the fort’s historic past.
• Enjoy river views.
• Take a look at the sunset.
• Take photos.

4. Kappil Beach

Kappil Beach lies in an area where the Arabian Sea meets the tranquil backwaters, creating one of the most beautiful landscapes in Kerala. Contrary to the more crowded beaches, Kappil offers a calm and tranquil environment.

It’s ideal for those who want to unwind and be in the beauty of nature.

Distance

Approximately 7 km

Timings

Open all day

Entry Fee

Free

Things to Do

• Take a stroll by the seashore.
• Admire the backwater views.
• Photography.
• Enjoy time with your family.

5. Kappil Lake

It is located near Kappil Strand. Kappil Lake is surrounded by coconut trees and lush greenery. The tranquil waters provide an ideal environment for boating and photography of nature.

Distance

Around 7 km

Timings

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Entry Fee

Free (Boating is charged additionally.)

Things to Do

• Boating.
• Birdwatching.
• Photography.
• Relax in the tranquil surroundings.

6. Valiyaparamba Backwaters

Often regarded as one of Kerala’s treasures, the Valiyaparamba Backwaters offer a more tranquil alternative to the famed Alleppey backwaters. The region is famous for its picturesque backwaters, small islands, and traditional fishing villages.

A boat trip here allows you to experience Kerala’s rural beauty at a relaxing pace.

Distance

Approximately 30 km

Timings

Open all day long

Entry Fee

The entry fee is free (Boat rides are separately charged.)

Things to Do

• Houseboat cruise.
• Canoe ride.
• Birdwatching.
• Village sightseeing.

7. Ananthapura Lake Temple

Near the centre of a tranquil lake, Ananthapura Lake Temple is one of Kerala’s best temples. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is considered to be the first place of worship (Moolasthanam) in the renowned Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram.

The tranquil environment makes it a perfect location for lovers as well as travellers.

Distance

Approximately 15 km

Timings

5:30 AM – 12:30 PM

5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Entry Fee

Free

Things to Do

• Make a prayer.
• Take in the beautiful lake view.
• Photography (where allowed).
• Relax in the tranquil surroundings.

8. Ranipuram Hills

If you’re looking to get away from the sands for a few hours, then head for Ranipuram Hills. It is often known as “the Ooty of Kerala”; this hill station is famous for its sprawling grasslands, dense forests, cool climate, and beautiful treks.

Situated in the Western Ghats, Ranipuram is an ideal destination for adventure and nature seekers. The hike towards the viewpoint is simple and provides visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

Distance from Bekal

Approximately 85 km

Timings

8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Entry Fee

Nominal entry cost

Things to Do

• Explore the hills.
• Get panoramic views.
• Birds and butterflies that are in the area.
• Capture beautiful landscape images.

Best Time to Visit: October to February

9. Malik Deenar Mosque

Malik Deenar Mosque is one of the oldest and most important religious mosques in India. It is believed that it was built by Malik Ibn Dinar, who played a significant role in the spread of Islam across the state of Kerala’s Malabar Coast.

The mosque’s distinctive Kerala design and tranquil surroundings make it a valuable spiritual and cultural landmark.

Distance from Bekal

Approximately 15 km

Timings

All hours of the day.

Entry Fee

Free

Things to Do

• Enjoy the classic architecture.
• Learn more about the history of the mosque.
• Enjoy a quiet moment in a peaceful setting.

10. Nityanand Ashram Caves

The Nityanand Ashram Caves are among the most distinctive tourist attractions in Bekal. These caves for meditation are hand-carved with narrow passageways, small meditation rooms, and a distinctive architectural style that speaks to the simplicity of spirituality.

People who are interested in spirituality, meditation, or the past often find this area fascinating.

Distance

Approximately 18 km

Timings

6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entry Fee

Free

Things to Do

• Discover the caves for meditation.
• Learn more about Swami Nityananda.
• Take in the peaceful setting.

11. Pallikere Beach

The beach is situated near Bekal Fort. Pallikere Beach is not as crowded as other beaches located in Kerala. The soft golden sands, the swaying coconut trees, and the tranquil ambience make it a great location for couples and families.

Due to its proximity to Fort Knox, many tourists combine both within a single visit.

Distance

Approximately 3 km

Timings

All hours of the day.

Entry Fee

Free

Things to Do

• Relax on the sea.
• Take a look at the sunset.
• Enjoy photography.
• Enjoy quality time with your family.

12. Kareem’s Forest Park

Nature lovers ought to think about going to Kareem’s Forest Park, an ecotourism location designed to raise environmental consciousness. The park is home to bamboo bridges, walking trails, medicinal plants, and tiny streams as well as lush vegetation.

It’s a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of city life and is a wonderful spot for kids to discover more about the world around them.

Distance from Bekal

Approximately 55 km

Timings

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Entry Fee

Nominal fee

Things to Do

• Nature walks.
• Birdwatching.
• Discover the medicinal plants.
• Family picnic.

Suggested 1-Day Bekal Itinerary

If you only have just one hour, we’ve got a plan which covers the main points:

Morning

• Bekal Fort
• Bekal Beach

Afternoon

• Lunch at an area seafood restaurant
• Kappil Beach
• Kappil Lake

Evening

• Chandragiri Fort
• Sunset at Bekal Beach or Pallikere Beach

Suggested 2-Day Bekal Itinerary

Day 1

• Bekal Fort
• Bekal Beach
• Kappil Beach
• Kappil Lake
• Pallikere Beach

Day 2

• Valiyaparamba Backwaters
• Ananthapura Lake Temple
• Malik Deenar Mosque
• Nityanand Ashram Caves

If you’re looking to trek, substitute one of the attractions on Day 2 with Ranipuram Hills.

Best Time to Visit Bekal

The ideal timing to travel to Bekal is between the months of October and March. In the months between October and March, temperatures are comfortable, which makes it ideal for exploring and walking along the beach, as well as boating. You can also explore the historical sites.

Weather Overview

• Winter (October-March): The weather is pleasant and perfect for tourism.
• Summer (April-May) It is hot and humid but perfect for beach excursions early in the day and late in the evening.
• Monsoon (June-September): Lush greenery and gorgeous scenery, although outdoor activities can get affected by the rain.

How to Reach Bekal

By Air

The closest airport is Mangalore International Airport, located about 70 kilometres from Bekal.

By Train

Bekal Fort Railway Station and Kasaragod Railway Station provide convenient railway connections to important cities across Kerala, Karnataka, and beyond.

By Road

Bekal is easily connected via roads that connect with Mangalore, Kannur, Kozhikode, Kochi, and other nearby cities via regularly scheduled KSRTC buses and other private services.

Travel Tips for Visiting Bekal

• Go to Bekal Fort early in the morning or late in the afternoon to stay clear of the heat of midday.
• Be sure to wear comfortable shoes to walk in the Fort.
• Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to wear for beach trips.
• Wear modest attire at mosques and temples.
• Be prepared with a camera. The viewpoints in Bekal are stunningly beautiful.
• If you are planning to visit Ranipuram Hills, wear trekking shoes and bring water with you.
• Explore local Malabar dishes and fresh fish in nearby restaurants.
• Make reservations for your accommodation well ahead of time during the winter holidays.

Conclusion

Bekal is among Kerala’s lesser-known travel destinations. Although the majestic Bekal Fort is undoubtedly the main draw of Bekal, the town has a lot more to offer, ranging from peaceful beaches and picturesque backwaters to ancient temples, historical mosques, and lush hills.

No matter if you’re planning your romantic vacation, family trip, or a getaway with your loved ones, Bekal offers the perfect combination of nature, history, and relaxation. Spend at minimum two days exploring the attractions and enjoy a stunning sunrise over the Arabian Sea, and don’t be averse to experiencing Kerala’s warm welcome and delicious cuisine from the coast.