Kasargod City Guide
The Bekal fort is of great historical and archaeological interest. It is the largest and best preserved fort in the state and the land on which it is situated, runs into the sea with fine bay towards the south.
Location :The Bekal fort is situated 16 Km south of Kasargod, Kerala.
Famous for :The Bekal Fort is a historic fort, and was once under the rule of Tipu Sultan
Best time to visit :During winters, ie, November to April.
About the Bekal Fort
Bekal Fort is one among the five centres selected by the Government of India to be developed into a 'Special Tourism Area'. The Bekal fort was built by Shivappa Naik of the Ikkeri dynasty during 1645 to 1650 AD. The fort was later captured by Haider Ali and eventually after defeat of Tipu Sultan, it got incorporated in the property of East India Company. Due to its historic relevance, the fort is controlled by the Archaeological Survey of India. Coins and other historical artifacts were unearthed by archeologists making it an interesting excavation site. The Bekal fort is the best preserved fort in Kerala. This historical as well as archeologically important fort, standing along a beach has been developed as an international tourist spot by Bekal authorities.
Interiors of the Fort
The huge fort has a marvelous design. There is a sea side pathway with a magnificent view of the fort. The pathway extends in the sea, giving a 'Keyhole' shape to the fort. The entrance of the fort has a Hanuman temple, which is very popular among locals as well as the tourists. There are many underground passages, which lead to exit, in various parts of the Fort. There is an observation tower in the middle of the fort. There are large and wide stairs to reach the observation centre. The structure, around 80 feet in circumference at the base and more than 30 feet high, affords a magnificent view of the sea on three sides and the green landscape. The magazine inside the fort is closed to the public. It was used to store weapons and ammunition. Currently it is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India. The sea bastion located on the rocky projection, west of the fort also offers a magnificent view of the sea and the beach. city.
