Kasargod Tourism

Kasaragod, referred to as the land of forts and gods, is one of the districts in the northern tip of Kerala. Kasaragod is surrounded by Kannur district in the south, Mangalore in the north, Western Ghats in the west and Arabain Sea in the east. Like other districts of Kerala, Kasaragod district too has a high literacy rate, around 85.17%. The district preserves a mixed culture as it has been highly influenced by the neighbouring states. The Malayalam spoken here has influences from Tulu, Kannada Urdu, Konkani etc. Kasaragod has enchanting beauty and is a land of historical importance. The district is home to the most fascinating forts, rivers, hills and beautiful beaches. The Bekal Fort is the largest and best preserved fort in the state.

The northernmost district of Kerala, Kasaragod is world renowned for its coir and handloom industries. Fishing is a prime source of livelihood. Kasaragod is also known for its rivers, hills and beautiful beaches.
Kasaragod displays a variety of styles in temple architecture - the unique style of the Madhur Mahaganapathy Temple, the typical Kerala style of the historic Malik Deenar Great Juma Masjid and so on speak volumes about the rich cultural heritage of the region. Spectacular pageants of Theyyam, Yakshagana, Kumbla (buffalo race), Poorakkali, Kolkali etc. enchant visitors.Nileshwaram Palace, once the seat of Nileshwaram Rajas who had been patrons of art and culture for centuries, today functions as the folklore centre of the Archeological Department of the state.

There are 12 rivers in this district. The longest is the Chandragiri (105 kms) originating from Pattimala in Coorg and embracing the sea at Thalangara, near Kasargod. The river assumes its name Chandragiri from the name of the place of its source Chandragupta Vasti; where the great Maurya emperor, Chandragupta, is believed to have spent his last days as a sage. Kasargod offers a variety of patterns of arts, which speaks volumes about the rich cultural heritage of the region. The spectacular pageant of Theyyam deities impersonated - raises Kasargod into a land of fabulous fantasies. The symphonic melody created by Yakshagana, Kambala (buffallo race), Cock fight etc. of the Thulanad culture, thrilling along with Poorakkali, Kolkali, Duff Mutt, Oppana etc. vastly enchants visitors.

Yakshagana Bombeyatta or Puppet show is an art form of Kasargod district and South Canara district in Karnataka State. The movements of the dolls are monitored and controlled by strings and rods. Yakshagana is presented through puppets and hence it is known as Yakshagana Bombeyatta. Puppets made out of wood are painted and dressed according to the characters in the story. Bombeyatta is controlled from a curtain chamber specially put up behind the seen for the purpose. Musical instruments are also used, rhyming with the shows. Kasargod is a land of different languages. Languages without script are also used here. Tulu, Kannada, Malayalam, Konkani and Tamil are the popular local languages. Though the people speak different languages, there is no barrier on the cultural unity. Mosques, Temples and Churches stand side by side, as symbols of communal solidarity.

Pallikere Beach: This shallow beach offers a spectacular view of the fort, and has ample facilities for recreation and relaxation. It is situated about a km from Bekal Fort.

Kappil Beach: Remote and secluded, this beach is fast becoming a major tourist attraction. The Kodi cliff nearby offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea.

Valiyaparamba Backwaters: This is perhaps the most scenic backwater stretch in Kerala. Fed by four rivers and dotted with numerous little islands, Valiyaparamba is fast turning into a much favoured backwater resort that offers enchanting boat cruises. It is situated about 30 km from Bekal.

Chandragiri Cruises (Backwater): Boat trips to nearby islands and palm groves. Boarding point: Chandragiri bridge. Situated on the Chandragiri river, south east of Kasaragod town, this town is known for its large 17th century fort built by Sivappa Naik of Bedanore. The Chandragiri fort, one of a chain of forts built by the same ruler, offers a breathtaking view of the river and the Arabian Sea. It is a vantage point to watch the sunset.