Bekal Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 1-2 days

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"Beaches, Backwaters and forts"

Bekal Tourism

Located on the west of the Malabar coastline, Bekal is a small town in the Kasargod district of Kerala. It is famous for its beaches, backwaters, forts and some tourists spots. Bekal is home to the largest fortress in Kerala. It's one of the primary landmarks of Kasargod district.

Shaped like a giant keyhole, the Bekal fort is bordered by the Arabian on three sides. A set of 45 caves called the Nityanandashram caves, Kappil Beach and Chandragiri fort are few of the other major attractions. Bekal was also selected as one among the top ten travel destinations by Lonely Planet. The nearest airport is at Mangalore while the nearby railway station is in Kanhangad.

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The Unexplored Backwaters

If it comes to backwater, people always turn to Allepey. Little do people know about the backwaters of Bekal which are still very much unexplored. A small island, Valiyaparamba, about 30 km away from Bekal has the most scenic backwater stretches. It is an important fishing centre in North Kerala. The backwaters are simply mesmerising. The water is bordered by a thick fringe of coconut trees. The trees here they grow so densely that they outstretch towards the water for the sunlight. The view is brilliant. The cost of the boat ranges from 5000-15000 INR.

Restaurants and Local Food in Bekal

Bekal is known for its steamed and fried preparations, that one must taste, while here. Steamed food includes Puttu, Iddali, Idiyappam, Ada. Fried food, on the other hand consists of Fish fry, Fried bananas, bhajji (fried chilies). Apart from these, there are a few popular Keralan delicacies such as Payasam (rice, wheat, or coconut), Pickled mango Drink- Coconut water, Toddy (a local brew made of coconut water) as well as some refreshing locally available seasonal fruit juices.
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Suggested Itinerary for Bekal

Day 1: On reaching Bekal, you can start your vacation by visiting the beautiful Bekal Beach. A walk along the stretch or just a dip will be very rejuvenating. After spending some time on the beach, you can head to Bekal fort to see the history unfold in front of the eyes. On your way back, you can stop at Kappi beach to appreciate the beautiful picturesque stretch.

Day 2: On the second day, head to experience the Bekal backwaters. Getting there is slightly tricky but worth all the efforts taken. The houseboats need not be booked in advance.

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How to Reach Bekal

How to Reach Overview

Mangalore Airport is the nearest airport located at a distance of 67 km from Bekal. The nearest railway stations are Kasargod and Kanhangad, 14 km and 16 km respectively. Major South Indian cities are well connected by train to Bekal. There are also many buses running from the main cities to Bekal. 

How to reach Bekal by flight

The closest airport is Mangalore which is approximately 60 km away. However, Kochi airport is more connected with frequent flights from all over India than Mangalore. There is a direct flight from Kochi to Bekal, and the distance is covered in an hour.

How to reach Bekal by train

Bekal is well connected via trains. The closest railway stations from Bekal are Kasargod and Kanhangad. Major trains halt at these two stations. The train journey can be covered in about 5 hours. The train rides are very comfortable. However, the tickets are supposed to be booked in advance. Upon reaching the station, you have to take a cab to Bekal.

How to reach Bekal by bus

There are many bus services and taxi services functioning between Kochi and the other main cities to Bekal. The bus ride is very comfortable and scenic and enjoyable. The distance is covered in approximately 5 hours.

Local transport in Bekal

Buses, Autorickshaws, local taxis, car rentals or on foot. Be open to taking house-boats to some places.

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Bekal Photos

Bekal, Kerala
Bekal Fort

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FAQs on Bekal

What is famous about Bekal?

An offbeat destination which is not yet much explored. Famous for forts, beaches and backwaters.

What is not so good about Bekal?

Bekal is a place which cannot be visited throughout the year because of extreme weather conditions.

Who should visit Bekal?

Bekal is a must visit for people who are looking for forests, mountains and a lake in one destination. Ideal for those who want to indulge in a weekend amidst greenery along with some Bengali cuisine.

What is the best time to visit Bekal?

The best time to visit Bekal is during the winters. The weather is beautiful and pleasant. The cool breezes in the evening lift your mood and the whole vacation. Though Kerala in monsoons is much talked about but it is good to avoid visiting during that time as everything comes to standstill due to the torrential rains.
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What is the local food in Bekal?

Bekal is known for its steamed and fried preparations, that one must taste, while here. Steamed food includes Puttu, Iddali, Idiyappam, Ada. Fried food, on the other hand consists of Fish fry, Fried bananas, bhajji (fried chilies). Apart from these, there are a few popular Keralan delicacies such as Payasam (rice, wheat, or coconut), Pickled mango Drink- Coconut water, Toddy (a local brew made of coconut water) as well as some refreshing locally available seasonal fruit juices.
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What is the best way to reach Bekal?

Cochin/Kochi/Ernakulam is the closest city if you are planning to visit Bekal. Cochin being the capital is well connected via flights from all over India. The nearest railway stations are Kasargod and Kanhangad, 14 km and 16 km respectively. Major South Indian cities are well connected by train to Bekal. There are also many buses running from the main cities to Bekal.
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What are the things to do in Bekal?

The top things to do in Bekal are Bekal Fort, Bekal Beach, Kappil Beach, The Bekal Hole Aqua Park, Valiyaparamba Backwaters, Nityanandashram Caves. You can see all the places to visit in Bekal here

What are the places near Bekal?

The top places near to Bekal are Coorg which is 77 km from Bekal, Wayanad which is located 140 km from Bekal, Kasargod which is located 19 km from Bekal, Madikeri which is located 77 km from Bekal, Mangalore which is located 58 km from Bekal

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Popular Questions And Answers on Bekal

Q. Are boat rides available in the backwaters?

Kaveesh Nair

6 years ago
Yes there are backwater boat rides in Bekal. There's the day cruise, the 24 hour cruise, and also a conference boat which can hold upto 50 people.
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Q. wayanad or bekal if we have to choose one ?

Holidify

6 years ago
Wayanad is a scenic place is definitely worth a visit.
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Bekal Reviews

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Surbhi Parashar

6 years ago
- Carry sunscreen, head-gear, and sun-glasses during the winters. Always carry a water bottle and Oral Rehydration Solutions. Remember to pack in your own medicines. Quick grubs might be a little tri (Read More)cky to get, so it is advisable to carry your own munchies.
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