The pride of the northern district of Kasargod is Bekal. An old town adorned with the tall, green trees amidst quaint buildings, Bekal is widely famous for the seventeenth-century architectural marvel of a fort, The Bekal Fort.
The fort is set against the backdrop of the alluring beaches kissed by the waves of the Arabian Sea. The dark brick stoned structure covers 40 acres of land across the Arabian Sea, the Bekal Fort is the largest fort in Kerala. The fort was built to showcase strength and defence. Undoubtedly, it still symbolises its might and shield. The fort’s architecture has a zigzag entrance and trenches around it. Built on the sole purpose of defence, the fort houses no palace or mansion in its premises. The Bekal Fort has some quite interesting features including a water tank with steps and a tunnel opening towards the south.
The fort has a keyhole-shaped high structure, more like a viewpoint. The viewpoint is rather grand in the way it’s set. It lets you soak up in the excitement and bliss in the sight of the fascinating coastline and the nearby towns of Kanhangad, Pallikkara, Bekal, Kottikkulam, and Uduma. The fort also boasts a high observation tower, that is led by a magazine for keeping ammunition, which was formerly used for placing cannons during the times of war.
The majestic Bekal fort, for several reasons including its location, might and beauty, has witnessed several rulers over the last three centuries from Indian Royal dynasties to Colonial rulers.
The fort is also rather famous for its appearances in several Hindi, Tamil and Malayalam movies. The most famous portrayal of the fort was in Mani Ratnam’s Bombay. The mood set in the fort by the lovers on the screen and divine music of A R Rahman has given us an everlasting picture to reckon with.
Keep in mind that the best time to visit Bekal Fort is during the evergreen monsoon treats of Kerala. Your day would be blessed if you stay and witness the breathtaking sunsets that takeover the horizons of the restless Arabian sea.
Travelogue 