Historic forts in Kasaragod are not considered a unique sight at all as there are so many of them in this beautiful, picturesque district. One of the most important such forts found here is the Hosdurg Fort located around half a kilometre from Kanhangad and 15 kms south of Bekal. 

One among the long list of forts built by the legendary Ikkeri Nayakas, the Hosdurg Fort is an exquisite example of the grandiose and rich history of Kasaragod. Though the fort is in ruins now, its remnants reflect the opulent times it stood witness to. It is believed that this fort was built during the years when the northern part of Kerala was under the reign of the Bednur Nayakas. Before them, the area was under the rule of the Kolathiri chieftains post which Sivappa Nayaka and Somasekhara Nayaka captured the region. It is believed that it was Somasekhara Nayaka of Ikkeri Dynasty who set up the Hosdurg Fort. The fort has been a place of strategic importance even through the reign of Tipu Sultan and the British rule as well. 

In the vicinity of the fort, towards its north eastern corner bastion, a watchtower and modern cemetery can also be seen.  The round bastions are a prominent feature of the fort and the watch tower offers a panoramic view of the entire region. The style of construction of the bastion and the watchtowers share striking similarities with the style used in the construction of the Bekal and Kumbala forts. Wall walkways are also a common feature. Here at the Hosdurg Fort, one can also see caves cut in the lateritic formations, below the south-western corner bastion.

Hosdurg Fort, also known as the Kanhangad Fort, has captivated the attention of historians for years. This Dravidian style fort made of bricks once occupied around 26 acres of land adjacent to the sea and rivers. This vantage position gave Hosdurg the status and power of being a key role as the trade and commercial hub of the Dutch, Portuguese and Arabs in the past. The Nayakas even built a Shiva temple, the Poonkavanam Karpooreswara Temple, near the fort in its southwest region. 

In our rapidly changing world, it is historic destinations like the Hosdurg Fort that serve as constant reminders of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. These relics are a s salute to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring legacy of those who lived centuries before us.