Kasaragod is the northernmost district of Kerala which is famous for its linguistic culture is also known as "Sapthabhasha Sangamabhoomi" as seven major languages are spoken here. It is also home to some exquisite folk arts and rituals of Kerala.
The 300-year-old Bekal Fort (15km) is one of the main attractions of Kasaragod. Other important places to visits are Ranipuram peak (60 km), Valiyaparamba back waters and house boat (4 km), sacred forests (1-40 km), sandy beach (3 km), Swami Nithyananda Ashram (4 km), Ananda Ashram (5km), Parassinikkadavu Snake Park (51 km), Ananthapura Lake Temple (45km), Madhur Temple (35 km), Malik deenar Masque (35 km), Malla Durgaparameshwari temple (40km).
Kasaragod boasts of the largest and best preserved Fort in the whole of Kerala, bordered by a magnificent beach. Shaped like a giant keyhole, the historic Bekal Fort was built in the 17th century. This historic monument offers a superb view of the Arabian Sea from its tall observation towers, which were occupied by gigantic cannons till afew centuries ago. Near the Fort is an old Mosque that is said to have been built by Tipu Sultan of Mysore. Originally constructed by the rulers of the ancient Kadampa Dynasty, the Fort changed hands over the years to the Kolathiri Rajas, the Vijayanagara Empire, Tipu Sultan and finally, the British East India Company. Today, the Bekal Fort and its scenic surroundings are fast becoming an international tourist destination and a favourite shooting locale for film makers. Visiting hours: 08:00 - 17:30 hrs.
You are atop one of the largest hills of North Kerala, Ranipuram, popularly considered as Kerala’s answer to Ooty. A few more steps you could reach the final challenge, a gigantic rock, some tower of a Babel, challenging the heavens, with wreathes of cloud or mist hung around its shoulders. You only have to climb that rock beyond this foggy wall somehow, with a mild sun encouraging you with its cold rays, to strike off this place, Ranipuram should be in the bucket list of heavenly places in Kerala, you’d see this lifetime.
The scenic backwater near the Bekal Fort transports us to a serene environment away from the hustle and bustle. The mesmerizing view from a kettuvallam (houseboat) is probably the one thing that you need to just lay back and relax. Valiyaparamba is the third-largest backwaters in Kerala which provides a picturesque view of the local flora and fauna. The boat ride through the backwaters takes you to Valiyaparamba island, the largest island in Kavvayi backwaters. One can relax in the houseboat and enjoy the rustic charm of the unspoiled backwaters, catch fish or enjoy a nice meal in the houseboat. The calm and secluded Valiyaparamba Island is a perfect getaway from the city. The Valiyaparamba beach is not very far away and remains untouched by tourists. Although Valiyaparamba backwaters is a favourable spot all throughout the year, November to May is the best time and it will help you escape the summer.
Built by Swami (sage) Nithyananda, the monastery is located south of Kanhangad Town. This area was part of a forest and here, Swami Nithyananda constructed 44 caves in a mountain slope. These caves are an architectural wonder and thousands from all over the world visit here yearly to take a look at them. The ashram also houses a full size statue of Swami Nithyannda in sitting posture. Just in front of the temple is the imprint in marble of the soles of Nithyananda’s feet. Usually it is the dorsum of the feet that are sculpted. But here, his soles are embossed on marble. The 44 dark caves were once used by Swamis to spend long hours in meditation. The linen, crockery, vessels, and religious things used by the Swami is exhibited in a room adjacent to the caves.
Kanhangad in Kasaragod district is home to a site where all human beings are welcome to seek peace and salvation. Religious denominations or caste do not matter at the beautiful Anandashram. Formed in 1931 by Swami Ramdas, this internationally renowned spiritual centre has provided solace to all who have reached its doorstep for close to a century. The Swami preached universal love and service and to this day, the Ashram is a shining beacon spreading this message through its activities and involvement in the local community.
One of the most curious Kannur tourist places is the snake park in Parassinikkadavu. The park houses over 150 species of reptiles ranging from crocodiles to lizards and snakes, along with endemic and migratory species of rare water birds. Wildlife enthusiasts and animal lovers will find it extremely satisfying to enjoy the array of animals and their admirable traits. You will be left awestruck watching the delightful traits of these animals. Distance: 18.8 km from Kannur bus stand. Timings: 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM
