Kasaragod

Kasaragod

The land of Yakshagana and Theyyam Kasargod is acquiring prominence in the tourist map of India. This youngest district of Kerala has several niceties to offer to the enthusiastic backpackers and pilgrims. The enduring charm of its beach, the architectural marval of the temples, mosques and churches and the unique and tell tale flok art forms are genuine areas of attractions for the tourist. Yakshagana Bayalatta the famous art form of the region is a colourful cultural treat. This colourful dance drama is based on the myths and legends of the old. Bakel fort and the adjoining beach selected by the central government to develop into a special tourism area is the best bid of Kasargod for the promotion of tourism. Twenty six kms South of Kasargod town this magnificent and robust fort, overlooking the calm seas and the 'snow white beach' is a Perennial source of tourist attraction.

Sightseeing in Kasaragod

Ananthapura Lake Temple
The only lake temple in Kerala and the Moolasthanam (original seat) of Ananthapadmanabha Swami (Sri Padmanbha Swami Temple) Thiruvananthapuram. is 5 km. from Kumbla. Local belief is that Ananthapadmanabha had settled down here originally.

Bekal Fort
The largest and best preserved fort in the State. The alluring scene of the sea shore and its exhilarating natural scenery and beauty attracts the visitors. Fast emerging as an International tourist centre. The natural scenery at Bekal is alluring and makes a visit to the place an exhilarating experience. There is a recently renovated temple dedicated to Hanuman, at the entrance to Bekal. An old mosque is also situated very near the fort and this is believed to have been founded by Tipu Sultan.

Bela Church
Our Lady of Sorrows Church - oldest in the district constructed in 1890 AD. 15 KM north of Kasargod. This Gothic style Roman Catholic church which is under the Manglore Diocese has celebrated its centenary recently and also renovated.

Chandragiri Fort
Chandragiri lies three km south of Kasargod town. It has a large square situated high above the Chandragiri river on its southern bank. The fort it said to have been built in the 17th century by Sivappa Nayak of Bednore, who established his authority over the area and built a chain of forts. The Chandragiri river, on the bank of which it rises, marked the traditional boundary between Kerala and the Tuluva Kingdom. There is a beautiful bridge over the Chandragiri river at Thekkil, five miles from Chandragiri. A longest railway tunnel in Kerala passes through Chandragiri Hills.

Madhur
8 KMs north east of Kasargod. Famous Srimad Anantheswara Vinayaka temple is situated here. The rich architecture, imposing structure of the temple, with its turrets and gables and the copper plate roofing rises majestically against the beautiful landscape of hills paddy fields and gardens with the river Madhuvahini flowing leisurely in front of it. The Madhur Temple is a Siva temple with Srimad Anantheswara as its presiding deity. But importance is given to the deity Maha Ganapathi. The Sivalingam of the temple is said to have been found by a harijan woman, Madharu. The special festival of the temple is Moodappa Seva, which is covering the large figure of Maha Ganapathi with appam made of ghee and rice. The festival is conducted only periodically in view of the huge expenditure involved. It was celebrated in April 1962, after a lapse of about 160 years, and recently in April 1992. Namaskara Mandapam of the temple has been decorated with beautiful figures of puranic heroes in wood. A closer examination of the wood carvings would disclose the various episodes of the Ramayana, beginning with the Seethga Swayamvaram. The Mantapam in the interior of the temple building as well as the outside facade of the second and third storey of the main building are also profuse with attractive and exquisite wood carvings. It is said that the temple was attacked by Tippu Sultan of Mysore during his invasion and he felt thirsty and drunk the water from the temple well, which changed his mind and left the temple without damaging it. There is a mask on the temple which is said to be made by Tippu with his sword.

Malik Dinar Mosque
Over the years, Kasargod acquired the considerable importance as a centre of Islam on the west coast. It is the site of one of the mosques believed to have been founded by Malik Ibn Dinar. The mosque, Juma Masjid, which is one of the best kept and most attractive in the district, is located at Thalangara. It contains the grave of Malik Ibn Mohammed, one of the descendants of Malik Ibn Dinar and the place is sacred to Muslims. Another notable mosque, in Kasaragod is the Theruvath Mosque which is in the centre of the town. An important local celebration takes place every year in commemoration of the arrival of Malik Ibn Dinar. The Uroos attract pilgrims from all over India.

Mallikarjuna Temple
Situated in the heart of the Kasargod town is one of the famous temple in Kasargod district. The temple festival and yakshagana are most attractive.

Things to do in Kasaragod

Visit Bekal Fort
The 300 year old Bekal Fort is one of the largest and best preserved forts in Kerala.T his imposing circular structure of laterite sites rises 130 ft. above sea level and stands on a 35 acre headland that runs into the Arabian Sea. Buses are available every 30 minutes from Kanhagad to Bekal. The Fort appears to have been built up from the seas since almost three fourth of its exterior is drenched and the waves do stroke the citadel.

Valiaparamba
This perhaps is the most scenic backwater stretch in Kerala. Fed by four rivers and dotted with numerous little islands, Valiaparamba is fast turning into a much favoured backwater resort that offers enchanting boat cruises.

Chandragiri Cruises
A cruise in a speed boat down the picturesque Chandragiri river, takes you around evergreen islands and coconut palm groves. The boarding point is conveniently located beside the Chandragiri bridge.

Visit Beaches
Bekal, Kappil and Pallikere Beach offers a spectacular view of the fort and has ample facilities for recreation and relaxation. The tourists can go for swimming and sea bathing. The wide beaches and calm waters promise you an experience without parallel.

Pandiyan Kallu
A rock rising in the sea about 2 km from theTrikkannad temple,Pandiyan Kallu is an ideal spot for adventurous swimmers.Legend has it that the ship of one of the Pandiya Kings who attacked the Thrikkannad temple was converted into a rock.

How to reach Kasaragod

Nearest bus stations: Kasaragod has both private and KSRTC bus stations in the town itself.
Nearest railway station: Kasaragod, about 2 km away.
Nearest airport: Mangalore Airport, about 75 km away