This tiny spot on the eastern shore of Kerala would have remained primeval, unknown to tourists, if not for its world famous fort. Bekal, once a sleepy village, still retains its rustic charm, offering visitors a comforting break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The distance of 60 km from the Mangalore Airport to Bekal is dotted with stunning landscape in all shades of green, only to be interspersed by placid backwaters and a silvery view of the Arabian Sea at some stretches. The coastline has a wealth of extremely diverse countryside where, along with sandy beaches, you will also find villages with a unique seaside flavour co-existing with modern concrete structures. The drive is smooth and engrossing, except for a few bumpy sections.
The Government of Kerala has endorsed tourism activities on a massive scale under the Bekal Resorts Development Corporation. Vivanta by Taj — Bekal, is one such property that offers excellent services along with their signature hospitality for travellers seeking sentient and sensorial experiences. Vivanta by Taj’s architectural style — a design that has a deep sense of the local ethos reflecting natural elements — is inspired by Bekal’s kettuvallam house boats that are unique to this region. Some rooms have plunge pools and offer a private retreat amidst lush surroundings. The rooms also offer a private courtyard, an outdoor dining area, rain shower and a soak tub. To add to the experience, the Jiva Spa menu at Vivanta Bekal features signature experiences, ayurveda programmes, Indian aromatherapy, scrubs and wraps, and beauty rituals. River Kappil flows silently around the property, adding to the pristine beauty of the place.
Once in Bekal, take a stroll on its red mud lanes and you are sure to come across beautiful falls hidden away in the green cover. Narrow streams that crisscross the land at frequent intervals, part ways only to meet again at various junctures. Trek through banana and rubber plantations where you can come across god’s many colourful creations.
One can cycle or walk along the beach stretch to reach the picturesque Bekal Fort. The beautiful locale of the fort area was showcased by film director Mani Ratnam in his movie Bombay. Yet, in early afternoon, as one traverses through the uneven terrain of the fort, there are hardly any visitors coming by.
Maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, the famous Bekal Fort, spread over an area of 40 acres, was erected to ward off the marauding attacks of enemies. The meandering entrance and trenches around the fort show the defence strategy inherent in its construction. Gaping holes of different sizes overlook the sea on one side and the land on the other sides; clearly, they had a purpose to serve. These holes were specially designed to defend the place effectively. The ones on top were meant for aiming at the farthest points; ones below were for striking when the enemy was nearer and the holes underneath facilitated attacks when the enemy was very close to the fort.
While walking on the rampart, as one looks down towards the vast expanse of the sea, the walls of the fort appear to merge with the rocking waters. The fort appears to have been built up from the seas since almost three-fourths of its exterior is soaked and the waves kiss the citadel now and then. A view of the sun-drenched sea in all its majesty is a sight to behold. The gentle breeze and the intervening sounds of the surfs can keep you company for hours together as you gaze untiringly towards the seamless horizon.
Bekal’s hidden delights can only be experienced. It’s a perfect place to relax, as you soak up the surroundings.
Disclaimer: This article was first published on Deccan Herald