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.
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Where Shades of History Mingle with Nature's Embrace. Nestled like a sentinel on Kerala’s northern shores, Kasaragod proudly displays its crown jewel - Bekal Fort, a behemoth of history kissed by the Arabian Sea’s azure embrace.
Described as the land of Forts and Gods, Kasaragod is noted for Theyyam, a performing art that blends dance, myth, drama, music, art and theatrics. The magnificent key-hole shaped Bekal Fort is an architectural wonder. The northernmost district of Kerala, Kasaragod is also renowned for its hills, water bodies, and coir and handloom industry
Kasaragod has stood witness to the settlement of various human communities within its borders that came in the wake of military invasions, commercial travels and diplomatic missions. Subsequently their languages and their cultures nourished the adoptive region, and Kasaragod became a land of seven tongues
A large formation like a swimming pool in the middle of the sea is the striking feature of Kanwatheertha beach at Manjewaram in Kasaragod district
Believed to have been founded by Persian scholar and traveller Malik Ibin Deenar, this historic mosque itself is a true wonder. Built-in the typical Kerala style, Malik I…
Chathurmugha Basti, located in Manjeshwaram Taluk, Kasaragod, is a centuries-old Jain temple known for its unique four-faced statue of Lord Brahma and stunning architectu…
Edneer mutt is one of the most revered places in Kasaragod which is visited by a good number of devotees from Kerala and neighbouring states.
Switch on the adventurous spirit and head to Ranipuram. The tourist destination in Kasaragod known for its spellbinding beauty doubles up as a picnic spot and a trekker`s…
Nileswar, the cultural centre of Kasaragod district, Kerala was the seat of the Nileswar Rajas.
Located in the Bandadka village in Kasaragod, the Kundamkuzhy Fort is a land fort that dates back to the time of the Bednur Nayaks. This square fort is made of laterite b…
Madiyankulam Durga Temple at Kanhangad, Kasargod district of Kerala is famous for its Bhutha Dance (Pootham).
Located eight km northeast of Kasaragod, on the banks of the Madhuvahini River is the Madhur Temple dedicated to Lord Ganapathy.
Welcome to Cherupuzha in Kannur district in Kerala from where starts the exciting rafting on the River Tejaswini. The river, which is also known by the name Kariamkode, o…
Chandragiri Fort, situated on the banks of Payaswini River in Kasaragod district, is a 17th century citadel. Chandragiri Boat Club offers speed boat rides, houseboat crui…
Chithari is a small tropical island situated 5 km from Kanhangad in Kasaragod district, Kerala. It is covered with lagoons and a sandy beach
Ranipuram is located around 85 km from Kasaragod district in Kerala. It is famous for its trekking trails and verdant vegetation.
Bekal is an ideal location in Kasaragod district, Kerala. Situated at about 16 km South of Kasaragod, the imposing fort at Bekal is one of the largest and best preserved…
The Valiyaparamba backwaters, a large body of scenic backwaters is fed by four rivers. The River Tejaswini is one among them and a houseboat cruise through its waters wit…
The Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI) established in 1970 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research is located at Kudlu in Kasaragod. CPCRI conduct…
Sree Mahalingeswara Temple, Adoor, dedicated to Lord Shiva is in Kasaragod.
Conducted by Kerala Tourism, the Bekal Village Tour starts in the early morning. En route you have to cross the bewitching Chandragiri River, which acts like charismatic…
The Northern Part Of Kerala Called The Malabar Region Has Some Of The Wonderful Backwater Stretches Of Kerala. Kasaragod's Kottappuram, Valiyaparamba And Chandragiri, Val…
A performing art form that is quite popular in the northern districts of Kerala, Theyyam is a ritual dance form that embodies myth, dance, drama, music, art an…
Bekal is located in Kasaragod district and is famous for its attractions like Bekal fort, beach, valiyaparamba backwaters and Chandragiri.
Thidambu dance is a ritual temple art form performed in the temples of North Malabar and Kasaragod District. Thidambu denotes the decorated replica of the deity in a temp…
Some of the most alluring set sarees in the country are produced in this northernmost district of Kasaragod
The largest fort in Kerala, Bekal Fort, is situated on 40 acres of land in the Kasaragod district. This 300-year-old fort narrates tales of military expeditions, the hist…
Alamikkali is a ritual art form that is presented exclusively in Kasaragod district in North Kerala. Originally performed by ‘Alamis’, the soldiers of Tipu’s army t…
Located in Kasaragod distinct of Kerala, Posadi Gumpe allures travellers from around the world with its beautiful vistas and mist-clad hilltops. Posadi Gumpe is a Tulu wo…
Lush vegetation and undulating hilly terrain have made Kottancherry Hills near Konnakad in Kasaragod district a trekkers’ paradise
Kumbla in Kasaragod district is an ideal destination where you not only see but also realise the value of mangroves
Malik Deenar Mosque, a well known muslim pilgrim centre is located at Thalankara in Kasaragod district of Kerala.
Valiyaparamba is a scenic backwater situated near Bekal in Kasaragod, Kerala.
Thaikadappuram Beach at Nileshwaram, Kasaragod is famous for the rare Olive Ridley Turtles that visit during the rainy season to lay eggs.
Hosdurg Fort is renowned for its chain of forts built by SomashekaraNayak of Ikkeri Dynasty. Located in Kahangad in Kasargod, the fort is an ideal picnic spot near Bekal.
Anandashram, situated 15 km from Bekal in Kasaragod, is an internationally renowned spiritual centre founded by Swami Ramdas.
Bekal Fort, built in 17th century, is one of the largest and best preserved forts in Kerala
Padanna backwaters at Cheruvathur in the district of Kasaragod is a backwater network in the northern part of Kerala.
Edneer Mutt located a few km from Kasargod, is a renowned seat of art and learning. It belongs to the Sankaracharya tradition.
Kasaragod, the northernmost district of Kerala is well known as an aqua tourism destination. Pallikere beach, Kappil beach, valiyaparamba and chandragiri are the major de…
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