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Located in the peaceful district of Kasaragod in Kerala, Hosdurg Fort stands as an ancient wonder that fascinates history lovers. It has tall, rounded bastions, thus unveiling the rich past of the region. Constructed during the 17th century by Somashekara Nayaka of Keladi, the fort represents an alluring blend of architecture and natural beauty. The ancient walls, panoramic views, and tranquil surroundings of the fort justify Hosdurg as the location that is greatly recommended for those with an urge to dig deeper into the historical and cultural history of Kerala.
Location
Photo: Noeljoe85 / Wikimedia Commons
Hosdurg Fort is located in Kanhangad, a town in the Kasaragod district of the state of Kerala, India. Existing right beside the shores of the Arabian Sea presents a scenic backdrop that adds to its historic charm. This is one of the prime landmarks in Kanhangad and is readily accessible from the town proper.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kasaragod For Your Next South India Trip
How To Reach Hosdurg Fort
Photo: Maqsood Poovadka / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Road: Easily accessible by buses and taxis from nearby towns and cities. Kanhangad is well connected by roads, so it can easily be reached by the drive from Kasaragod and Mangalore.
By Train: The nearest railway station is at Kanhangad, hardly a few kilometres away from the fort. Regular trains are available from Kanhangad to all major cities including Mangalore and Kannur.
By Air: The domestic airport is Mangalore International Airport, which is about 85 km away. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Hosdurg Fort.
Places To Visit Around Hosdurg Fort
Here are a few places to visit around Hosdurg Fort that will make your getaway much more exciting.
1. Bekal Fort
Photo: Renjithks / Wikimedia Commons
Bekal Fort is located at the intersection of land and sea. It is located in Kasaragod, Kerala’s northernmost district, and is an amazing structure spanning 40 acres. The fort is thought to have existed from the commencement of the reign of the Chirakkal Rajas, rulers of the Kolathiri Kingdom of North Malabar. The fort’s construction dates back to the beginning of Kolathiri’s reign.
Entry Fees: ₹15 for adults
Location: Bekal, Kasaragod
Suggested Read: St. Thomas Fort
2. Anandashram
Photo: Prof tpms / Wikimedia Commons
Anandashram was established in 1931 by Swami Ramdas, sometimes referred to as Beloved Papa, in Kanhangad, South India. It is headquartered in Kanhangad, Kerala, and does not have any branches outside of India. There is no caste or religious affiliation at the magnificent Anandashram. Through its activities and commitment to the community, the Ashram continues to be a shining example of Swami’s teachings of universal love and service.
Entry Fees: None
Location: Kanhangad, Kasaragod
3. Kappil Beach
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons
Situated just 7 km from Varkala, Kappil Beach and its surrounding backwaters offer a peaceful haven from the busy beach scene nearby. For those looking for peace, quiet and stunning scenery, this picturesque spot is an ideal retreat because it strikes the perfect mix between the open sea and tranquil backwaters. The capital city of Thiruvananthapuram is not far from Kappil Beach, which attracts tourists with a range of water sports and a stunning setting.
Entry Fees: None
Location: Kappil, Kasaragod
Suggested Read: Beaches Near Palakkad
4. Chandragiri Fort
Photo: SnapMeUp / Wikimedia Commons
Chandragiri Fort, offering a blend of heritage, history, and landscape, is one of the top places to visit in Kerala. It was built in the 17th century by Shivappa (Sivappa) Nayaka of the Keladi dynasty and holds utmost historical importance. An ideal destination for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts, the fort attracts visitors from every part of the country. The fort also offers breathtaking views of the surroundings. You can also visit the nearby Kizhur Sastha Temple, especially during the annual Pattu, for a more immersive experience.
Entry Fees: ₹10 for Indian nationals and ₹100 for foreign visitors
Location: Kasaragod, Kalnad, Kerala
5. Hosdurg Beach
Photo: Keymini / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Nestled along the Malabar Coast, Hosdurg Beach stretches adjacent to Kanhangad town. Blessed with turquoise-blue waters and golden sands dotted with lush palm trees, it is one of the serene beaches in Kerala. The beach, dotted with quaint thatched cottage,s offers a coastal retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. A remarkable highlight is the nesting of Olive Ridley Turtles from September to November, offering a rare wildlife experience. An ideal destination for nature lovers, Hosdurg Beach promises a tranquil getaway.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: Kasaragod, Kerala
Suggested Read: Explore The Amazing Beaches Near Guruvayur For A Serene Experience
6. Valiyaparamba
Photo: Alertedlevel2 / Wikimedia Commons
Valiyaparamba is Kerala’s longest coastal island, stretching over roughly 16 km² and located about 5 km southwest of Cheruvathur and 30 km from Bekal. It is adorned with backwaters on one side and the sea on the other, forming a spectacular natural landscape. One of the best things to do in Kerala is to explore this coastal town for a mesmerising retreat in the wilderness of nature. Here, you can experience houseboat cruises, canoeing & kayaking, birdwatching, and village exploration.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: ValiyaparambaKerala
7. Maipady Palace
Photo: Anilpm / Wikimedia Commons
Maipady Palace served as the royal residence of the Kumbala Kings and is now a major tourist attraction in Kerala. One of the top historical places in Kasaragod, the palace is brimming with history, intricate architecture, and grandeur. Built in the nalukettu style, a traditional Kerala architectural layout, the palace unfolds around a central courtyard, complete with a thulasi thara (holy basil altar). It is an excellent spot for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: Vidyanagar, Maipady, Seethangoly Rd, Kasaragod, Shiribagilu, Kerala
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Where To Stay
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There are enough options for accommodation in Kanhangad and surrounding towns as per one’s pocket and need. For a conservative and luxurious stay, one can opt for Taj Bekal Resort & Spa. Decent accommodation would be available to the budget seekers in Bekal Fort Resort. Most of the hotels and homestays in Kanhangad assure a warm and comfortable ambience, making your stay most enjoyable while visiting the historic Hosdurg Fort.
Where To Eat
Photo: Devika Varier / Wikimedia Commons
Kasaragod District occupies a place undisputed in the field of nutritious and mouth-watering Malabar cuisine with myriad tastes for food buffs. You can relish the traditional Kerala food at Malik Dine and Hotel Vasanth Vihar at Kanhangad. Fresh seafood, intoxicating Biryanis, and lip-smacking vegetarians are the usual fares found in most eateries here.
Suggested Read: Best Food In Kerala
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Hosdurg Fort, Kerala would be from October to March when the weather is fine and sightseeing is possible. The temperature ranges from moderate degrees, and the region gets an average amount of rainfall from October to March, making it just perfect to go out and explore the fort and other places around it.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Vishnu Raj R / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Weather: Avoid the Monsoon season as it experiences heavy rainfall.
Respect: Keep the fort clean, and respect its historical value.
Photography: Carry a camera to capture a variety of Hosdurg Fort pictures.
Average Cost Of The Trip
A 2-day package including stay, food, and travel to Hosdurg Fort would be around ₹5000 to ₹7000 per person.
Tips For Travellers
- Carry water and snacks along as options are few and far between near the fort.
- Comfortable walking shoes with a good grip are recommended for walking up the steep fort.
- Maintain the cleanliness of this historic place and avoid littering.
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Hosdurg Fort, Kerala, is one such secluded spot which exquisitely combines history, architecture, and nature. Be it the avid history lover or a person who relishes spending time in serenity, Hosdurg Fort will heighten your senses and offer lots of memorable moments. Its powerful bastions and fantastic surroundings really make this fort represent the cultural inheritance of the place. Choose Trip XL to plan your visit to this historical haven!
Cover Photo: Nithinkumarp / Wikimedia Commons
