Bekal is a serene coastal town located in the Kasaragod district of Kerala, famous for its historic Bekal Fort and pristine beaches. Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka, is a bustling metropolis and a major starting point for travelers heading to Kerala's northern coast. This route is popular among tourists seeking a peaceful weekend getaway or a cultural exploration of Kerala's heritage.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Bangalore to Bekal, including trains, buses, self-drive options, and flights. Whether you prefer a scenic road trip or a quick flight, you'll find detailed information, travel tips, and step-by-step plans to help you reach Bekal comfortably and confidently.

Getting from Bangalore to Bekal – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is a popular and economical choice for reaching Bekal from Bangalore. The route offers several daily trains connecting Bangalore to Kasaragod or Kanhangad stations, both close to Bekal.

• Key stations:

  Board trains from Bangalore City (SBC) or Yesvantpur Junction (YPR) to Kasaragod (KGQ) or Kanhangad (KZE), which are about 15-20 km from Bekal. Kasaragod station is slightly closer to Bekal Fort.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey takes approximately 10 to 12 hours, covering around 500 km. Sleeper class tickets range from ₹300-₹600, while AC classes cost ₹800-₹1500 depending on the train.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Several trains run daily, including overnight options like the Matsyagandha Express. Booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Travel tips:

  Choose trains arriving early morning at Kasaragod to maximize your day. Carry light snacks and water, as station food options can be limited at night.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Kasaragod or Kanhangad station, you can hire prepaid taxis or use Ola/Uber to reach Bekal Fort in about 30-40 minutes. Auto-rickshaws are also available but less comfortable for luggage.

By Bus

Bus travel is a budget-friendly and flexible option, with direct and connecting services from Bangalore to Kasaragod and nearby towns. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private operators serve this route.

• Bus types and routes:

  You can find non-AC and AC sleeper buses departing from Bangalore’s Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic) to Kasaragod or Kanhangad. Some buses stop at Bekal or nearby towns.

• Travel time and fares:

  The journey takes around 12-14 hours covering 520 km. Ticket prices range from ₹600 to ₹1200 depending on the bus type and operator.

• Booking and frequency:

  Tickets are bookable via KSRTC online portals or private bus apps like RedBus. Night buses are common, allowing you to save daytime for sightseeing.

• Comfort and stops:

  AC sleeper buses offer comfortable overnight travel. Frequent stops for refreshments and restrooms are available along NH 75 and NH 66 highways.

• Challenges:

  Traffic congestion near Bangalore and Kasaragod can delay buses, especially during weekends and festival seasons. Booking early is advisable.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bangalore to Bekal offers freedom to explore scenic routes and stop at interesting places en route. The drive covers approximately 520 km via NH 75 and NH 66.

• Route details:

  The recommended route is Bangalore – Hassan – Mangalore – Kasaragod – Bekal, mostly on NH 75 and NH 66. The roads are generally in good condition with tolls on expressways.

• Travel time and stops:

  The drive takes about 10-11 hours without heavy traffic. Popular rest stops include Hassan, Mangalore, and Kanhangad, where you can find fuel stations and eateries.

• Car rentals:

  Self-drive car rentals are available in Bangalore from providers like Zoomcar or Revv. Choose a comfortable sedan or SUV for the long journey.

• Scenic highlights:

  The stretch near Mangalore and Kasaragod offers lush greenery and coastal views. Avoid night driving through ghats during monsoon due to slippery roads.

• Traffic and tolls:

  Expect traffic near Bangalore city limits and Mangalore. Carry cash or FASTag for toll payments on NH 75 and NH 66.

By Flight

While there is no direct airport in Bekal, flying to nearby Mangalore International Airport (IXE) is a fast option, followed by a road transfer to Bekal.

• Flight details:

  Multiple daily flights operate from Bangalore’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) to Mangalore, with a flight time of about 1 hour.

• Airport to Bekal:

  Mangalore Airport is approximately 90 km from Bekal. You can hire prepaid taxis or book cabs via Ola/Uber for a 2-2.5 hour drive along NH 66.

• Cost and convenience:

  Flight fares range from ₹1500 to ₹4000 depending on booking time. This option saves time but adds road travel after landing.

• Timing tips:

  Choose morning flights to reach Bekal by afternoon, allowing time for check-in and sightseeing. Avoid late-night arrivals due to limited transport options.

• Seasonal notes:

  Flight availability may reduce during off-peak seasons; book early during holidays and festivals.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

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

• Book your tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains, RedBus for buses, or airline websites for flights. Early booking secures preferred seats and better prices.

• Reach departure points early:

  Arrive at Bangalore City Railway Station, Kempegowda Bus Station, or airport at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush.

• Pack essentials smartly:

  Carry light luggage, water bottles, snacks, and a power bank. For train or bus journeys, bring a neck pillow and blanket for comfort.

• Plan last-mile transport:

  Pre-book taxis or use Ola/Uber from Kasaragod, Kanhangad, or Mangalore airport to Bekal. Avoid unmetered autos to prevent overcharging.

• Check weather and road conditions:

  Before starting your journey, verify monsoon updates or traffic alerts, especially if driving or taking buses.

• Stay connected:

  Keep mobile data active for navigation and booking confirmations. Offline maps can be helpful in areas with weak signals.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on trains and buses:

  Keep your belongings secure and avoid boarding overcrowded local trains. Use official ticket counters or apps to avoid scams.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially for overnight journeys. Prefer sealed packaged food or eat at trusted outlets during stops.

• Booking strategies:

  For trains, book at least 30 days in advance via IRCTC. For buses, use RedBus or KSRTC apps and check reviews of private operators.

• Local commute in Bekal:

  Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available but negotiate fares beforehand or use metered options. Renting a scooter is a good choice for local sightseeing.

• Luggage handling:

  Pack light and use sturdy bags. At stations, keep an eye on your bags and avoid leaving them unattended.

• Seasonal warnings:

  The monsoon season (June-September) can cause roadblocks and train delays. Plan accordingly and check weather forecasts.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Bangalore to Bekal is during the dry months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and roads are safer.

Monsoon months bring heavy rains, which may affect road and rail travel, so extra caution is needed during this period.

• Avoid traveling during peak festival weekends like Onam and Christmas when transport is crowded and prices surge.

• Early morning departures help avoid Bangalore city traffic and ensure smoother highway driving.

• Winter months offer cooler temperatures ideal for sightseeing and beach activities in Bekal.

• During summer, start trips early to avoid midday heat, especially if driving or taking buses.

Arrival at Bekal & What to Expect

On arrival in Bekal, travelers are greeted by the tranquil Arabian Sea coastline and the imposing Bekal Fort, a major attraction. The town is small but well-equipped with guesthouses, homestays, and resorts.

Local transport includes auto-rickshaws, taxis, and scooter rentals, making it easy to explore nearby beaches and heritage sites. Popular stay areas include Bekal Fort Road and nearby beachside localities, offering easy access to attractions and eateries.

Conclusion

Among all options, taking an overnight train to Kasaragod or Kanhangad combined with a short taxi ride to Bekal is the most efficient and economical way to travel from Bangalore. It balances comfort, cost, and convenience, allowing you to arrive rested and ready to explore.

With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey to Bekal, choosing the mode that best suits your schedule and preferences. Whether by train, bus, car, or flight, a memorable Kerala coastal experience awaits you.