Welcome to Kasaragod, often hailed as the 'Land of Gods', where every corner unveils a unique tapestry of culture and history waiting to be explored. Nestled at the meeting point of Kerala, Tulunadu, and Coorg, this district is adorned with a wealth of natural wonders and cultural treasures that make it a coveted destination for travellers from across the world.

Culture and Natural Beauty
Renowned as ‘Saptha Bhasha Sangama Bhoomi’, here seven distinct languages are spoken reflecting its richness of traditions and influences. From ancient times, this land has been inhabited, with evidence dating back to the Great Stone Age, underscoring its deep historical roots.

Situated amidst verdant hills and bordered by a coastline stretching over 30 kilometres, Kasaragod boasts some of Kerala's most pristine beaches. Bekal, Kappil, and Pallikere beckon beach lovers with their golden sands and azure waters. The allure of Kasaragod extends beyond its natural splendour to its rich architectural heritage. 

The Valiyaparamba backwaters of Kasaragod are the ideal destination to experience the charm of the Great Backwaters of Kerala in all its glory. It is the third largest backwater network in the state.  Here, time seems to slow down as the gentle waters weave their way through lush greenery, creating a symphony of tranquility. For the adventurous soul, Valiyaparamba Backwaters beckon with opportunities for fishing or exploring the intricate network of waterways as well.

Another highlight of Kasaragod is a serene place located on the shores of the Pallikkara village in Kasaragod, Bekal. It is renowned as the home of the biggest and most well preserved fort in Kerala. The imposing Bekal Fort, built centuries ago by the Nayakas of Keladi, dominates the coastal landscape with its towering bastions and intricate pathways. It serves not only as a historical landmark but also as a vantage point for breathtaking sunsets and serene coastal vistas. This is in fact only one among the numerous historical forts and structures in Kasaragod.

Bekal is the first ever planned beach destination in India. It has been crafted without disturbing the ecological balance or natural beauty of the region. It is believed that this was the location of an enormous palace in the past thus the name Bekal which is said to be derived from the word 'Baliakulam' which means a big palace. During the times of Kolathanadu which was among the most powerful feudal kingdoms on the Malabar coast, Bekal was a vital maritime centre and port town of Tulunadu. Tulunadu was the old name by which Kasaragod was known in earlier times. 

Today Bekal has become one of the most sought after destinations in Kasaragod owing to its picturesque beauty as well as the annual Bekal Beach Festival. The ten day festival features flea markets, auto expos, flower exhibitions, sand sculpture competitions as well as exciting water sports like kayaking, parasailing, snorkeling and even helicopter rides.

Monuments and Ancestral Rituals
The district is home to ancient temples, churches and mosques that echo with tales of devotion and architectural grandeur. The Ananthapura Lake Temple, nestled on a tranquil island in a pristine lake, is revered as one of the oldest temples in the region, dedicated to Lord Ananthapadmanabha.  The Sri Madanantheshwara Siddhivinayaka Temple or more commonly known as the Madhur Vinayaka Temple is another of the most famous temples in Kasaragod. Though the presiding deity here is Lord Shiva, the temple is famous for Lord Ganapathy. Constructed in the 10th century by the Mypadi rulers of Kumbla, this temple is located on the banks of the Madhuvahini River and its most unique aspect is its architecture which is a seamless blend of the Hindu and Jain styles of architecture. 

Nearby, the Malik Deenar Mosque, a testament to Kasaragod's religious diversity, stands as one of India's oldest mosques, drawing visitors with its serene ambiance and historical significance.

No visit to Kasaragod is complete without experiencing the vibrant Theyyam rituals, a unique form of worship indigenous to northern Kerala. These elaborate performances blend dance, music, and mythology, where performers embody divine spirits through intricate costumes and rhythmic movements. Theyyam rituals not only showcase the spiritual beliefs of the region but also highlight its rich artistic heritage, captivating spectators with their mesmerising allure. Poorakkali and Thidambu dance, Alamikali, Tholpavakoothu and Yakshagana are some of the other unique art forms that can be experienced and explored in this region. Among these Yakshagana is performed only in Kasaragod district in Kerala. 

Yakshagana is believed to be a form of Bhuta worship which was practiced in these areas years ago. Bhuta worship refers to the worship of the divine and ancestral spirits. The word Yakshagana literally translates to 'music of celestial beings'. This art form cannot be defined as a folk, classical or rural art form as it is influenced by folk drama and Sanskrit drama and is a blend of all of these elements. The stories performed are taken from epics like the Mahabharata, Ramayanam and Bhagavatham. It is indeed an experience of a lifetime to immerse oneself in a Yakshagana performance.

Industries
Kasaragod is renowned for its thriving coir and handloom industries, where skilled artisans weave intricate patterns and vibrant colours into textiles and handicrafts. These traditional crafts, cherished locally and sought after internationally, offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s craftsmanship and economic livelihood.

Whether exploring ancient forts steeped in history, witnessing the vibrant hues of Theyyam performances, or simply unwinding amidst serene landscapes, Kasaragod promises a journey filled with discoveries and memorable experiences. This hidden gem in Kerala invites travellers to delve into its unique charm, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and an enduring cultural legacy. Embrace the essence of Kasaragod, where each moment unfolds a new chapter in the timeless narrative of God’s Own Country.