Bekal, located in the Kasaragod district of Kerala, is renowned for its historic fort and serene beaches. Situated in the southwestern tip of India, it attracts travelers seeking a peaceful coastal retreat away from city life. This route from Delhi to Bekal is popular among tourists looking to explore Kerala’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

In this guide, you will find detailed information on the main travel options including trains, buses, flights, and self-drive routes. Whether you prefer a comfortable train journey or a quick flight combined with local transport, this article will help you plan your trip efficiently and confidently.

Getting from Delhi to Bekal – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is a practical and popular choice for this long-distance route, offering a comfortable and scenic way to reach Bekal. Indian Railways connects Delhi to Kasaragod, the nearest major station to Bekal.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) and arrive at Kasaragod Railway Station (KGQ), about 15 km from Bekal Fort. Kasaragod is well connected to major cities across India.

• Duration and distance:

  The journey covers roughly 2,800 km and takes approximately 40 to 45 hours depending on the train. Ticket prices range from ₹1,000 for sleeper class to ₹3,500 for AC classes.

• Train options and frequency:

  Several trains like the Mangala Lakshadweep Express and Kerala Express run weekly or bi-weekly. Booking in advance via IRCTC is essential, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Comfort and facilities:

  AC coaches provide good comfort for overnight travel. Carry your own food or buy at station stalls during stops. Keep an eye on train schedules as delays are common on long routes.

• Local connectivity:

  From Kasaragod station, taxis and auto-rickshaws are available to reach Bekal Fort and nearby resorts. Prepaid taxi counters help avoid overcharging.

By Bus

Bus travel from Delhi to Bekal is less common due to the long distance but can be considered for budget travelers willing to break the journey into segments. Direct buses are rare, so a combination of buses is needed.

• Route breakdown:

  First, take a bus from Delhi to Bangalore or Kochi, then board a local Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus to Kasaragod or Bekal.

• Duration and cost:

  Total travel time can exceed 48 hours with multiple changes. Bus fares vary widely but are generally cheaper than trains, starting around ₹1,500 for long-distance segments.

• Bus types:

  Opt for Volvo or deluxe buses for better comfort on long legs. Night buses help save daytime hours but can be tiring.

• Booking and tips:

  Use online portals like RedBus or KSRTC’s official site to book tickets. Be prepared for crowded buses and limited luggage space.

• Local travel:

  KSRTC and private buses run frequently from Kasaragod to Bekal. These are affordable and convenient for last-mile travel.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Bekal is an adventurous option for those who enjoy road trips and want to explore along the way. The route covers diverse landscapes and several states.

• Main highways:

  The preferred route follows NH44 south through Haryana, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and finally Kerala via NH66. The total distance is about 3,000 km.

• Duration and breaks:

  Non-stop driving would take around 50 hours, so plan multiple overnight stops in cities like Nagpur, Bangalore, and Kozhikode.

• Road conditions:

  National highways are generally well-maintained, but expect variable conditions in some rural stretches. Toll plazas are frequent, so keep cash or FASTag ready.

• Fuel and rest stops:

  Numerous fuel stations and eateries are available on NH44 and NH66. Popular stops include Pune, Hubli, and Mangalore for meals and rest.

• Local driving tips:

  Kerala roads near Bekal can be narrow and busy. Drive cautiously, especially during monsoon when roads may be slippery.

By Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Bekal from Delhi, combined with a short road journey from the nearest airport. Several airlines operate daily flights between Delhi and Kerala.

• Nearest airports:

  The closest airport to Bekal is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), about 60 km away, or Kannur International Airport (CNN), approximately 90 km distant.

• Flight duration and cost:

  Direct flights from Delhi to Mangalore or Kannur take around 3.5 to 4 hours. Ticket prices range from ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 depending on booking time and airline.

• Airlines and booking:

  Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet operate on this route. Book early on airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip for best deals.

• Airport to Bekal transfer:

  From Mangalore or Kannur airports, taxis and app-based cabs (Ola, Uber) are available. Prepaid counters at airports ensure fair pricing.

• Travel tips:

  Flights can be affected by monsoon weather, so check schedules in advance. Early morning flights help avoid delays.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Bekal, focusing on convenience and minimizing travel fatigue.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or airline websites for flights, ideally 2-3 months in advance to secure availability and better prices.

• Pack light and smart:

  Carry essentials for long journeys including water, snacks, and a power bank. Kerala’s humid climate calls for breathable clothing.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at New Delhi Railway Station or Indira Gandhi International Airport at least 2 hours before departure to avoid last-minute rush.

• Plan local transport in advance:

  Pre-book cabs or check app availability for smooth transfers from Kasaragod station or nearby airports to Bekal.

• Stay overnight en route if driving:

  If self-driving, schedule overnight stays in major cities to rest and avoid fatigue. Use hotel booking apps to find safe accommodations.

• Keep emergency contacts handy:

  Save numbers for local taxi services, your accommodation in Bekal, and emergency services for peace of mind.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC booking tips:

  Use the IRCTC app or website to book train tickets. Tatkal quota opens at 10 AM daily for last-minute bookings. Avoid unverified agents to prevent scams.

• Food and water safety:

  Carry bottled water and avoid street food during long journeys. At stations, prefer hygienic outlets like IRCTC e-catering or branded cafes.

• Local commute apps:

  Ola and Uber operate in Kasaragod and nearby towns, offering reliable transport with upfront fares. For short distances, auto-rickshaws are economical but negotiate fares beforehand.

• Luggage handling:

  Keep valuables close and use lockable bags. At crowded stations, watch out for pickpockets and use luggage tags for easy identification.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Monsoon (June to September) can cause delays due to heavy rains and flooding, especially on roads near Bekal. Plan extra travel time and check weather updates.

• Safety precautions:

  Avoid traveling alone late at night in isolated areas. Use prepaid taxis and stay in well-reviewed accommodations for a secure experience.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Bekal is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather in both Delhi and Kerala, making travel comfortable and sightseeing enjoyable.

Avoid peak festival weekends and national holidays to escape heavy traffic and fully booked trains or flights. Early morning departures often ensure smoother journeys with less congestion.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rains affecting road and rail connectivity.

• Plan departures outside Delhi’s peak traffic hours (7-10 AM and 5-8 PM) to reduce delays when reaching stations or airports.

• Book flights early in the day to minimize the risk of weather-related cancellations or delays in Kerala.

• Consider mid-week travel for cheaper tickets and less crowded transport options.

Arrival at Bekal & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Kasaragod Railway Station or nearby airports, travelers will find a tranquil coastal town with lush greenery and historic charm. Bekal is famous for its massive Bekal Fort overlooking the Arabian Sea, pristine beaches, and backwaters.

Local transport includes prepaid taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs for easy access to hotels and tourist spots. Popular stay areas include Bekal Beach and nearby towns like Kanhangad, offering a range of accommodations from budget homestays to luxury resorts.

Conclusion

For most travelers, flying from Delhi to Mangalore or Kannur followed by a short taxi ride to Bekal offers the best balance of speed and convenience. This option minimizes travel time and fatigue, allowing more time to enjoy Bekal’s scenic beauty.

Alternatively, train travel provides an economical and comfortable experience for those who prefer a scenic journey. With proper planning and the tips shared here, you can confidently organize your trip from Delhi to Bekal and look forward to a memorable coastal getaway.