Top Sights
Bekal Fort
Bekal Fort
Bekal Fort is a historical fort offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. It is one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Kerala.
Visitors can explore the fort's ramparts, observation towers, and the ancient mosque inside. The sea breeze and scenic views make it a pleasant experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Carry water and sunscreen.
Hours: 08:00-17:30 daily
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Getting There: Bus from Kanhangad to Bekal, then a short auto-rickshaw ride.
Honest Take: Skip if you're not interested in historical sites. Worth it for the scenic views and historical significance.
Insider Tip:
Visit during sunset for stunning views of the coastline.
Ananthapura Lake Temple
Ananthapura Lake Temple
Ananthapura Lake Temple is a unique temple situated in the middle of a lake. It is believed to be the original seat of Ananthapadmanabha Swami, the deity of the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram.
The temple is known for its serene atmosphere and the resident crocodile, Babia, believed to be a vegetarian. Visitors can offer prayers and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Photography might be restricted in certain areas.
Hours: 05:30-12:30, 17:00-20:30 daily
Best Time: Morning or evening for a peaceful experience.
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw from Kanhangad.
Honest Take: A must-visit for its unique setting and religious significance.
Insider Tip:
Try to spot Babia, the vegetarian crocodile, in the lake.
Nityanandashram Caves
Nityanandashram Caves
Nityanandashram Caves are a series of man-made caves created by Swami Nityananda. The caves are a place for meditation and spiritual reflection.
Visitors can explore the caves and learn about the life and teachings of Swami Nityananda. The surrounding area is peaceful and offers a sense of tranquility.
The caves are relatively small, but the spiritual atmosphere makes it a worthwhile visit.
Hours: 08:00-18:00 daily
Best Time: Any time of the day.
Getting There: Located near Kanhangad town, easily accessible by auto-rickshaw.
Honest Take: Good for those seeking spiritual experiences and meditation.
Insider Tip:
Maintain silence inside the caves to respect the meditative atmosphere.
Kappil Beach
Kappil Beach
Kappil Beach is a serene beach known for its golden sands and clear waters. It's less crowded than some of the more popular beaches in Kerala.
Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing by the sea. The beach is also a good spot for photography.
Be cautious while swimming as the currents can be strong. Carry sunscreen and a hat.
Hours: Open all hours
Best Time: Late afternoon to enjoy the sunset.
Getting There: Bus from Kanhangad to Kappil, then a short walk.
Honest Take: Great for a relaxing beach experience, but lacks water sports facilities.
Insider Tip:
Walk along the beach towards the northern end to find secluded spots.
Hosdurg Fort
Hosdurg Fort
Hosdurg Fort, also known as Kanhangad Fort, is a historical fort built by the Ikkeri Nayaks. It offers a glimpse into the region's past.
Visitors can explore the fort's ruins and enjoy the views of the surrounding town. The fort is relatively small but has historical significance.
Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Carry water.
Hours: 08:00-18:00 daily
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon.
Getting There: Located in Kanhangad town, easily accessible by auto-rickshaw.
Honest Take: Worth a visit for history buffs, but don't expect a grand structure.
Insider Tip:
Climb to the top of the fort for panoramic views of Kanhangad town.
Adukathu Bhagavathi Temple
Adukathu Bhagavathi Temple
Adukathu Bhagavathi Temple is a local temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathi. It's known for its annual festival, which attracts many devotees.
Visitors can experience the local culture and traditions during the festival. The temple is a place of worship and cultural significance.
Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Be respectful of local customs.
Hours: 06:00-12:00, 17:00-20:00 daily
Best Time: During festival times to witness the vibrant celebrations.
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw from Kanhangad.
Honest Take: A good place to experience local culture and religious traditions.
Insider Tip:
Check the temple's calendar for festival dates to witness the celebrations.
Pallikere Beach
Pallikere Beach
Pallikere Beach is a scenic beach near Bekal Fort. It provides a serene environment for relaxation and enjoying the sea.
The beach is ideal for leisurely walks and enjoying the sunset. Its proximity to Bekal Fort makes it a convenient addition to your itinerary.
Carry essentials like sunscreen and water. Check local weather conditions before planning your visit.
Hours: Open all hours
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
Getting There: Bus from Kanhangad to Bekal, then auto-rickshaw
Honest Take: Worth a visit for a peaceful beach experience close to Bekal Fort.
Insider Tip:
Combine your visit with a trip to Bekal Fort for a full day of sightseeing.