Bekal Fort
Keyhole fort · Sea views · Heritage
Kerala's largest fort, a 17th-century laterite fortress shaped like a giant keyhole, rising straight from the sea.
- Climb the observation tower for coastal views
- Visit late afternoon for softer light
Discover Bekal
Why visit Bekal
Bekal Fort, a 17th-century keyhole-shaped laterite fort, stands on a headland above the sea in northern Kerala. Its walls and observation tower give sweeping coastal views, and the long sandy beaches beside it stay far less crowded than the south. Nearby, the Valiyaparamba backwaters offer peaceful houseboat cruises, and the region is a gateway to Theyyam ritual performances in winter.
Inside the district
Major locations
These are the stretches and spots that shape a visit to Bekal.
Bekal Fort Beach
Beach park · Sunsets · Families
A landscaped beach park beside the fort walls with a long sandy shore and calm evenings.
- Good sunset spot after the fort visit
- Swimming is not advised in rough seas
Kappil Beach
Quiet beach · Hillock views
An uncrowded stretch of sand about 6 km from Bekal, with the Kodi Cliff hillock giving wide views over the sea.
- Walk up Kodi Cliff for the panorama
- Few facilities, so carry water
Valiyaparamba Backwaters
Backwaters · Islands · Houseboats
North Kerala's largest backwater stretch, fed by four rivers and dotted with small islands, ideal for quiet houseboat cruises.
- Far less crowded than Alleppey
- Day cruises leave from Kottappuram
Ananthapura Lake Temple
Lake temple · Legend
Kerala's only lake temple, believed to be the original seat of Padmanabhaswamy, set in the middle of a small lake.
- Dress modestly for the temple
- About 30 km from Bekal