Bekal Fort

Bekal Fort is the largest fort in Kerala, spanning over 40 acres on a coastal promontory overlooking the Arabian Sea. Built in 1650 AD by Shivappa Nayaka of the Keladi Nayaka dynasty, this well-preserved medieval fort features thick laterite stone walls, bastions, an observation tower, and underground tunnels. Its strategic keyhole design and elevated position provided commanding views for coastal defense. The fort offers panoramic sea views, historical architecture, and access to adjacent Bekal Beach.

Visitors can explore the massive laterite stone walls rising up to 12 meters high, walk along the fortified bastions, climb the central observation tower for 360-degree views of the Arabian Sea, and discover the large water tank with steps and underground tunnels. The fort's elevated position provides sweeping coastal vistas. Adjacent Bekal Beach offers opportunities for relaxation. The site includes basic facilities such as parking, restrooms, and small shops. The fort lacks shade, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Built in 1650 AD by Shivappa Nayaka of the Keladi Nayaka dynasty, with construction initiated by Hiriya Venkatappa Nayaka. The fort served as a strategic military station for defending the Malabar coast and protecting the spice trade route. It later came under the control of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan of the Mysore Sultanate before being captured by the British East India Company in 1799 after the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War. The fort became the headquarters of Bekal Taluk in South Canara District under British rule.

Declared a special tourism area by India in 1992. The fort has been featured in Malayalam and Tamil films. It represents an important example of 17th-century coastal military architecture blending traditional Indian and Islamic styles.