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The northernmost part of Kerala houses numerous places to visit in Kasaragod, filled with cultural heritage and natural beauty. A paradise for every traveller searching for an offbeat experience, there are numerous places to visit in Kasargod. Bekal Fort and Bekal Beach are two important tourist attractions in Kasaragod. The former is a majestic coastal strong point from where one can behold panoramic views, while the latter is a perfect place for relaxation. Other prime places not to be left out would be the historical Ananthapura Lake Temple, steeped in ancient legends, and the unique Chandragiri Fort.
10 Places To Visit In Kasaragod
Tucked away in the northernmost part of Kerala lies Kasaragod, an unexplored destination. Listed here are the 10 places to visit in Kasaragod:
1. Bekal Fort
Photo: Joseph Lazer / Wikimedia Commons
One of the largest and best-preserved forts in Kerala is located in Kasaragod. It was a 17th-century fort belonging to the ancient Kingdom of Bekal. One can have an all-round view of the Arabian Sea from here. Massive walls, observation towers, and a reservoir with steps leading down to the water are the architecture of this fort. It is a very ancient fort. You can walk along the ramparts and witness the beauty of the coastline stretching. Because of its historical importance, Bekal Fort finds a place in the hearts of both tourists and filmmakers.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Top Attractions: Scenic views, ancient architecture, Bekal Beach nearby
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (approx. 70 km)
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2. Ananthapura Lake Temple
Photo: Noeljoe85 / Wikimedia Commons
Ananthapura Lake Temple is a unique Hindu temple, around 6 km from Kasaragod town, embedded on a small island in the middle of a serene lake. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the deity here is Anantha Padmanabha Swamy, one of the prime forms of Lord Vishnu. With its all-wood carvings, this temple is in a peaceful place surrounded by coconut groves among the places to visit in Kasaragod. You can feed the friendly crocodiles of the temple, regarded as the temple’s guardians, and feel the serene spirituality of the ambience amidst the natural surroundings.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year, avoid monsoon months
Top Attractions: Ancient cave temple, vegetarian crocodile, serene lake
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (approx. 60 km)
3. Chandragiri Fort
Photo: Maqsood Poovadka / Wikimedia Commons
Situated close to Kasaragod town, Chandragiri Fort lies at the intersection of the Chandragiri River with the Arabian Sea. Built in the 17th century by Shivappa Nayaka of Bednore, this fort was a strategic defence outpost. This fort provides a commanding scenic view of the river and sea from different vantage points. The bastions, ramparts, and a small mosque within the premises are in a fairly good state. Amongst history enthusiasts and photographers looking to get glimpses of the region’s rich past and natural beauty, Chandragiri Fort is one of the best places for enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Top Attractions: Views of Chandragiri River, ancient architecture, nearby estuary
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (approx. 60 km)
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In South Kerala
4. Kappil Beach
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located about 6 km from Bekal Fort, Kappil Beach is a pristine golden sandy beach, one of the major tourist attractions in Kasargod. It stands on the bank of the Edava Narayana Lake on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other, forming a beautiful setting. Fringes of coconut groves along the shore provide shade and a scenic background for walks and picnics. One can take a ride on the serene backwaters where the lake meets the sea, offering another unique blend of beauty, that of the coast and the inland area.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Top Attractions: Serene beach, backwaters, sunset views
Ideal Trip Duration: Half a day
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (approx. 75 km)
5. Madhur Temple
Photo: Sreedharan Namboothiri / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most famous shrines of Lord Shiva is at Madhur village, about 8 kilometres from Kasaragod town. This temple is renowned for its unique Kerala style, exquisite wood carvings and ancient murals and inscriptions. It holds spiritual importance, and one of the annual festivals, Madhur Bedi, brings in many devotees and visitors. The festival comprises a host of traditional rituals and cultural programs combined with a very upbeat atmosphere. Surrounded by lush greenery and a serene ambience, Madhur Temple provides a retreat to spiritually-minded architecture enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Top Attractions: Sacred shrine, intricate architecture, festivals
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (approx. 60 km)
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6. Ranipuram
Photo: Rajeshodayanchal / Wikimedia Commons
Ranipuram, the ‘Ooty of Kerala’, is carpeted by lush green forests and undulating hills, manifesting diversified flora and fauna. It lies 85 km from the city and is among the best places to visit in Kasaragod in the Western Ghats. As adventure junkies’ highlight, it has a very extensive network of treks provided right up to the hilltop through dense forests. These trails go from easy to difficult ones across scenic valleys. Such a climate and serene surroundings make it one of the best vacation getaways for relaxing and exploring outdoors.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Top Attractions: Lush greenery, trekking trails, viewpoints
Ideal Trip Duration: Half to full day
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (approx. 85 km)
7. Malik Deenar Mosque
Photo: Adilakv / Wikimedia Commons
One of the oldest mosques in India, Malik Deenar Mosque, is deeply religious and of historical importance. It is situated in Thalangara, next to Kasaragod town. It is believed that Malik Deenar himself built this mosque, as he was a follower of prophet Muhammad and came to this place to profess Islam. This mosque reveals the amalgamation of Islamic and indigenous Keralan architecture through its ornate carvings, wooden tiled roofs, and serene atmosphere. This may be a Muslim praying site, but people of every religion come to experience its cultural heritage, history, and serenity.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Top Attractions: Ancient mosque, religious significance
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (approx. 60 km)
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8. Valiyaparamba Backwaters
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Situated near Nileshwar, about 30 km from Kasaragod town, Valiyaparamba Backwaters is a serene and unexplored network with its tranquil ambience, lush green surroundings, coconut groves, and small islands. It’s one of the best places to visit in Kasaragod to spend time in peace amidst the beauty of nature. Narrow canals and open lagoons allow tourists to cruise through local traditional houseboats known as kettuvallam. The backwaters host various bird types. The houseboat cruise combines comfortable onboard stays with opportunities for fishing and a view of beautiful nature.
Best Time to Visit: September to May
Top Attractions: Scenic backwaters, houseboat cruises, birdwatching
Ideal Trip Duration: Half to full day
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (approx. 80 km)
9. Bela Church
Photo: Vijayanrajapuram / Wikimedia Commons
Bela Church, also known as “Our Lady of Sorrows Church,” is situated in Kasaragod and was built during the Portuguese era. The church’s stunning architecture perfectly exemplifies how Keralan and European styles came together. Its charming beauty is enhanced by its stained glass windows and whitewashed timber furnishings. Bela Church is a location of religious significance and a peaceful space for Christians in this area to pray and meditate. It especially draws history buffs and lovers because of its renowned historical materials.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Top Attractions: Historic church, serene surroundings
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (approx. 75 km)
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10. Thaikadappuram Beach
Photo: Dijaraj Nair / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This immaculate, less congested Thaikadappuram Beach is 45 km from Kasaragod town, close to Nileshwar. Because it’s less busy, it provides a serene escape from the hectic daily activities and routines for individuals looking for peace and beauty in the middle of nature. This beach is characterised by golden sand, soft waves, and palm trees swinging on their sides. Walking down the beachfront offers an amazing promenade where you can soak up the sun and the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Thaikadappuram Beach provides calming sunset views and a great backdrop for amazing photos.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Top Attractions: Quiet beach, scenic beauty
Ideal Trip Duration: Half a day
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (approx. 75 km)
Kasaragod offers a captivating blend of historical forts like Bekal Fort, serene temples such as Ananthapura Lake Temple, and picturesque spots like Kappil Beach. Ranipuram’s lush hills and Valiyaparamba Backwaters add to its natural allure. For those planning a visit, this list is a comprehensive guide to the places to visit in Kasaragod. What are you waiting for? Go to TripXL to plan your next trip.
Cover Photo : Akhil / Wikimedia Commons
