Bekal Fort is a historic coastal fort located in Kasaragod district, northern Kerala. Known for its scenic views and rich heritage, it attracts tourists from across India and abroad. This guide covers the best ways to reach Bekal Fort from major nearby cities and transport hubs.

Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip, this article provides detailed travel options by train, bus, car, and flight. You will find practical tips on routes, timings, and local commute to help you plan your visit confidently.

Getting from Major Cities to Bekal Fort – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is one of the most convenient and popular ways to reach Bekal Fort, especially from cities like Mangalore, Kannur, and Kozhikode. The nearest railway station is Bekal Fort Railway Station, but Kasaragod Railway Station is better connected.

• Key stations:

  Bekal Fort Railway Station (station code: BFR) lies just 1.5 km from the fort, but only a few trains stop here. Kasaragod Railway Station (KSG), about 13 km away, has more frequent train services from major cities.

• Travel time and cost:

  From Mangalore to Kasaragod, trains take around 1.5 to 2 hours, with ticket prices ranging from ₹50 to ₹200 depending on class. From Kozhikode, journey time is about 3.5 to 4 hours.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Multiple daily trains connect Kasaragod with Mangalore, Kannur, and Kozhikode. Trains vary from express to passenger services; booking AC sleeper or chair car tickets via IRCTC is recommended for comfort.

• Seasonal tips:

  Trains can get crowded during festivals like Onam and Christmas. Booking tickets well in advance is advisable. Monsoon season may cause delays due to heavy rains in the region.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Kasaragod station, autos and taxis are readily available to reach Bekal Fort. At Bekal Fort station, pre-booked taxis or local autos are recommended as options are limited.

By Bus

State-run and private buses provide an economical and frequent option to reach Bekal Fort from nearby towns and cities. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private operators run regular services.

• Major bus stops:

  Kasaragod Bus Stand is the main hub, located about 13 km from Bekal Fort. Several local buses and shared autos connect Kasaragod to Bekal Fort.

• Travel duration and fares:

  Buses from Kannur or Mangalore take roughly 1.5 to 3 hours, costing between ₹50 and ₹150. Local buses from Kasaragod to Bekal Fort take 30–40 minutes.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Frequent buses run throughout the day, but private buses tend to be faster and more comfortable. KSRTC operates air-conditioned Volvo buses on some routes.

• Seasonal and timing tips:

  Avoid traveling during peak festival days when buses are overcrowded. Early morning or late evening buses are less crowded and more comfortable.

• Local quirks:

  Shared autos are common for the last leg from Kasaragod to Bekal Fort, but negotiate fares beforehand to avoid overcharging.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Bekal Fort offers flexibility and the chance to explore the scenic Malabar coast at your own pace. The fort is well connected by National Highway 66 (NH66).

• Route details:

  NH66 connects Bekal Fort to Mangalore (about 50 km north) and Kannur (about 60 km south). The roads are generally in good condition with clear signage.

• Travel time and tolls:

  Driving from Mangalore takes around 1.5 hours, while from Kannur it takes about 2 hours. Expect tolls on NH66, costing approximately ₹50–₹100 depending on entry points.

• Parking and access:

  Bekal Fort has a designated parking area near the entrance. Arriving early helps avoid crowds and secures parking spots.

• Scenic views and stops:

  The coastal drive offers beautiful Arabian Sea views. Consider stopping at nearby beaches like Kappil or Chandragiri for refreshments.

• Challenges:

  Traffic congestion can occur near Kasaragod town during peak hours. Night driving is generally safe but avoid monsoon nights due to slippery roads.

By Flight

The nearest airports to Bekal Fort are Mangalore International Airport (IXE) and Kannur International Airport (CNN). Flights are a good option for travelers coming from distant cities.

• Airport distances:

  Mangalore Airport is about 55 km north, while Kannur Airport is around 65 km south of Bekal Fort.

• Flight connectivity:

  Both airports have regular domestic flights connecting to major Indian cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, and Delhi.

• Ground transport from airport:

  Prepaid taxis and car rentals are available at both airports. Booking a cab in advance via apps like Ola or Uber is recommended for a hassle-free transfer.

• Travel time and cost:

  The drive from either airport to Bekal Fort takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, costing ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 by taxi.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flight schedules may be affected during monsoon season due to weather. Check flight status before booking.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers to Bekal Fort, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, book your tickets at least 2 weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like December and Onam.

• Reach your departure point early:

  Arrive at the railway station, bus stand, or airport at least 45 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and secure good seats.

• Choose the right train or bus:

  Prefer express trains or air-conditioned buses for comfort. Use IRCTC for train bookings and KSRTC online portal or trusted apps for bus tickets.

• Arrange last-mile transport:

  From Kasaragod or Bekal Fort station, pre-book an auto or taxi via local apps or negotiate fares in person to avoid overcharging.

• Carry essentials for the fort visit:

  Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear as the fort involves some walking and exposure to sun.

• Plan your return trip:

  Check the timings of your return train or bus in advance to avoid missing connections, especially if traveling late evening.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety:

  Bekal Fort and surrounding areas are generally safe, but avoid isolated spots after dark. Keep valuables secure and be cautious with strangers offering unsolicited help.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and snacks, as food options near the fort are limited. Try local Kerala cuisine at Kasaragod town for authentic flavors.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and official KSRTC or private bus apps for bus bookings to avoid scams. For flights, book through airline websites or trusted travel portals.

• Local commute:

  Use prepaid autos or Ola/Uber where available. Negotiate fares before boarding shared autos to Bekal Fort from Kasaragod.

• Luggage:

  Travel light if using local buses or shared autos, as space is limited. For self-drive or taxis, luggage is less of a concern.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon rains (June to September) can cause delays and slippery roads. Carry rain gear and check weather forecasts before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

Bekal Fort is best visited during the dry months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The monsoon season brings heavy rains, which can disrupt travel plans.

Early mornings and late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and beautiful lighting for photography. Avoid weekends and festival days to escape crowds.

• Avoid traveling during peak festival weekends like Onam and Christmas to prevent overcrowding and higher prices.

• Monsoon months can cause roadblocks and train delays; plan accordingly or consider alternative dates.

• Depart early morning to enjoy a peaceful visit and avoid afternoon heat and tourist rush.

• Winter months (December–February) provide comfortable temperatures and clear skies for exploring the fort and nearby beaches.

Arrival at Bekal Fort & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Bekal Fort, visitors are greeted by the impressive sea-facing walls and lush greenery. The fort area is well maintained with entry tickets available at the gate. Local guides offer tours explaining the fort's history and architecture.

For local commute, autos and taxis are available near the entrance. Nearby attractions include the Bekal Beach and the Chandragiri Fort, both accessible by short drives. Accommodation options range from budget homestays to luxury resorts along the coast.

Conclusion

Among all options, traveling by train to Kasaragod Railway Station combined with a short taxi ride to Bekal Fort is the most efficient and comfortable way for most travelers. This route offers good connectivity, reasonable fares, and easy last-mile transport.

With clear planning and timely bookings, visiting Bekal Fort can be a memorable experience. Whether you choose train, bus, car, or flight, this guide equips you to plan your trip confidently and enjoy the beauty and history of this iconic Kerala landmark.