District of Kerala :: Kasargod
	Kasargod, The land of seven languages and several cultures.The place of harmonious co-existance of Hindu, Muslim, Christian religions. The district has famous tourist centers, including the international fame BEKAL FORT & BEACH. There are also places, which can be converted to attract the tourists. A district with a rare beauty and different culture - Kasargod is poised for growth in the area of Tourism. Karargod is known as the land of Gods, forts, rivers, hills and beautiful seashores.

The largest and the best preserved Bekal fort is already in the world tourist map. The old temples and mosques are rich in unique architecture and culture of this region. As it was part of Canara, still you can hear Kannada, Tulu, Konkani, Hindi and Urdu in the region apart from Malayalam.

Kasaragod was part of the Kumbala Kingdom in which there were 64 Tulu and Malayalam villages. When Vijayanagar Empire attacked Kasaragod, the Kolathiri King who had Nileswar as his headquarters ruled it. It is said that the characters appearing in Theyyam, the ritualistic folk dance of northern Kerala, represent those who had helped king Kolathiri fight against the attack of the Vijayanagar Empire. During the decline of that empire in the 14th century, the administration of this area was vested with the Ikkeri Naikans. They continued to be the rulers till the fall of the Vijayanagar Empire in 16th century. Then Vengappa Naik declared independence to Ikkeri. In 1645 Sivappa Naik took the reigns and transferred the capital to Bednoor. Thus they came to be known as Bednoor Naiks. Chandragiri fort and Bekal Fort are considered to be part of a
chain of forts constructed by Sivappa Naik for the defense of the kingdom. Another version says that Shivappa Naik from the Kolathiri Rajas, who were its owners, captured the fort.

Kasaragod was part of Bekal Taluk in the South Canara district of Bombay presidency. Kasaragod Taluk came into being when Bekal taluk was included in the Madras Presidency on April 16, 1882. Though Vengayil Kunhiraman Nayanar moved a resolution in 1913 on the floor of madras Governors Council demanding the merger of Kasaragod Taluk with the Malabar district, it had to be withdrawn because of the stiff opposition of the members of Karnataka. In 1927, a political convention held at Kozhicode, passed a resolution stressing the above demand. In the same year, an organization titled Malayalee Seva Sangam was constituted. Thanks to the efforts made by many eminent persons like K.P. Kesava Menon, Kasaragod became part of Kerala following the re-organisation of state and formation of Kerala in Nov 1, 1956.

Kasaragod is known as the Land of Gods, Forts, Rivers, Beautiful hills and lengthy sandy beaches. Kasargod is the emporium of cash crops like Areacanut and Coconut. Malik-Deenar Juma Masjid, Malika Arjuna temple and Dolors Church are worshiping places of historical importance. Pulikkunnu, one of the seats of the assembly of gods where 39 Theyyams are presented for the annual festivals. Other features - Important business centre; 31 metre above sea level. Kasargod is a land with resonant past. Myths and legends abroad... The land of great antiquity. Very colorful and unforgettable. The district is bounded by Karnataka State in the north and east and Kannur district in the south. Tucked far away from the madding crowed lies Kasaragod,the most enchanting district of Kerala. The scene is breath taking. Obviously Kerala is the most beautiful of all the Indian states and Kasaragod undoubtedly shows Kerala at its best.

Kasaragod is the northern-most district of Kerala. It was formed on 24th May 1984. Kasaragod, the district with natural splendor has been a key contributor to the cultural, religious, political and industrial heritage of the State. Kasaragod is also the cradle of many colourful art forms and folk music of Kerala. Kasaragod has a large population of tribals, who maintain an ethos distinctly different from the mainstream culture. It is world renowned for its coir and handloom industries. 

A primeval land sweeping in its untouched splendor, Kasaragod is indeed a paradise on earth and is brightly destined to be the hill station of the future.
Kasaragod displays a variety of patterns and styles in temple architecture - the unique style of the Madhur Mahaganapathy temple, the typical Kerala style of the historic Malik Deenar the Great Juma Masjid and so speaks volumes about the rich cultural heritage of the region.The rich pageant of 'Theyyam's deities impersonated rises Kasaragod into a land of fabulous fantasies. Fishing is a prime source of livelihood. Kasaragod is known as the land of Gods, forts, rivers, hills and beautiful beaches. The fort at Bekal is the largest and best preserved in the State.A district with rare and different beauty, Kasaragod is poised for growth in the area of tourism.

Bakel
The largest and best-preserved fort in the State. The alluring scene of the seashore and its exhilarating natural scenary and beauty attracts the visitors. Fast emerging as an International tourist centre.Bekal,at the northern tip of Kerala is 140 kms away from Calicut International Terminal.With the Konkan Railway Line,Bombay will just be 15 hours from Bekal. The beaches,backwaters and hill stations of Bekal offer a totally different backdrops to the holiday experience. Large number of forts, big and small like Bekal, Chandragiri, Hosdurg, Kumbala, Panayal, Kundamkuzhi, Bandaduka etc. reveal the historical importance of this land. Bekal Fort remains the largest and best-preserved fort in Kerala. History and legend are interwoven together in Bekal, particularly regarding its antiquity.
The Bekal Fort (16 Kms south of Kasaragod on the national highway) The 300 year old Bekal Fort is one of the largest and best preserved forts in Kerala.This 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. The Hanuman temple and the ancient Muslim Mosque nearly hold testimony to the age-old religious harmony that prevailed in the area. The zigzag entrance and the trenches around the fort show the defense strategy connected with the fort. Unlike most other Indian Forts, Bekal fort was not centers of administration for no remains of a Palace are found within the Fort. Probably the fort was built for fulfilling the defense requirements. The holes on the outer walls of the fort are so remarkable that they are specially designed to defend the fort effectively. The holes at the top are meant for aiming at the farthest points; the holes below are meant for hitting when the enemy is nearer and the holes underneath facilitate attacking when the enemy is very near to the fort. This is a remarkable evidence for the medieval technology of defense strategy. Apart from this, the wild and ecstatic beauty of the setting sun is a glorious presence in the fort.

Pallikere Beach (1 Km from Bekal Fort):
This Shallow beach offers a spectacular view of the fort and has ample facilities for recreation and relaxation.

Bekal Hole Aqua Park (1 Km from Bekal Fort):
The only one of its kind in northern Kerala, this unique Aqua Park provides water sport facilities like pedal boats and water cycles.

Malik Deenar Mosque
Kasargod acquired over the years considerable importance as a center of Islam on the west coast.The historic Malik Deenar Juma Masjid built in the typical Kerala style is believed to have been founded by Malik Ibin Dinar.The Juma Masjid, which is one of the best kept and most attractive in the districts is located at Thalankara. 

Kappil Beach (6Km from Bekal fort)
Remote and secluded , this beach is fast becoming a major attraction. The wide beach and calm waters promise you an experience without parallel. The Kodi cliff nearby offers a panoramic view of blue skies and rolling sands, making your visit one to remember.

Anandasaram (15 kms from Bekal)
This internationally renowned spiritual centre founded by Swami Ramdas in 1939, offers a quiet, peaceful ambience best suited for meditation and spiritual studies.

Ananthapura Lake Temple (30 Km from Bekal)
This 9th century temple is the only lake temple in Kerala and is the moolasthanam(original abode) of Anandapadmanabha, the deity of Sri. Padmanabha Swami Temple, Thiruvananthapuram 

Valiaparamba (30 Kms from Bekal)
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 Fort (10 Kms from Bekal)
Situated on the Chandragiri river, southeast 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 breathtaking view of the meandering Chandragiri river and the Arabian Sea. It is a vantage point to watch the sunset.There is a mosque nearby . The ancient Kizhur state Temple at Chandragiri has an annual festival called Pattu Utsavam. 

Chandragiri Cruises (10 Kms from Bekal) 
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.

Ajanur
The temple town is located 5 Kms from Kanhangad in Hosdurg taluk. The famous Madiyam Kovilakam Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. The ancient temple has intricate wood carvings on Palazhimadhanam, sitaswayamvaram and Dakshayagam.The annual nine day festival of 'pattutsavam' is celebrated here, various cultural and religious programmes are held during the festival. The village also 13 mosques and one church. There is also an 'Anandaswaram', founded in 1939 by Swami Ramdas, a great Vaishnava saint.

Madhur
Hindu Pilgrim centre, 8 km from Kasaragod, it is well known for the Srimad Anantheswara Vinayaka Temple or Mahaganapathi Temple. The sacred temple even finds mention in the Sahyadri Centre of Skanda Purana. The sacred thirtham of the temple well is believed to cure all diseases. The imposing structure of Srimad Anantheswara Vinayaka Temple-the rich architecture and copper plate roofing rises majestically against the beautiful landscape on the banks of Madhuvahini. 

Manjeswaram
A number of temples and fifteen mosques make this cashew growing town a prominent pilgrim centre. The memorial of the late Sri Govinda Pai, the grand patriarch of kannada literature, is situated at Manjeswaram . At Kanwatheeratha beach (3 km from Manjeswaram), a large swimming pool-like formation of the sea on the vast beach is the main attraction.Jain Temples: There are two old Jaina Bastis at Bengara Manjeswar on the southern bank of Manjeswar river.Churches: About 11 Kms from Kumbla on the Kumbla - Badiadka road is the Mother Dolorus Church of Bela. The hundred year old Roman Catholic Church is built in the Gothic style. The Our Lady of sorrows Church constructed in 1890 is the oldest in the district.The memorial of the late Govinda Pai, the grand patriarch of Kannada literature, is located at Manjeshwaram.

Kanhangad / Hosdurg Fort.
This is renowned for its chain of forts built by Somashekara Nayak of Ikkeri Dynasty and also for the Nithyanandashram, an internationally recognized spiritual centre. Somashekara Nayak captured Manjeswar and Thaliparamba and built a fort at Kanhangad Hosdurga [new fort].

Bela
Located 15km. north of Kasaragod, the little town is known for the oldest church in the district. The church Our Lady of Sorrows was constructed in 1890. 
Tular Vanam (4km East of Panathur)
Also known as Kekulom (the eastern place).The temple here is consecrated to Kshetrapalan and Bhagavathi.The eight day annual festival commencing from Sivarathri,attracts large crowds from all over the district as well as from Coorg.
Central plantation Crops &Research Institute 
The institute was established in 1970 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research,has its headquarters in Kudlu,5km north of Kasargod.The CPCRI serves as a national forum for improving the genetic potential of plantation crops,to produce genetically superior planting materials for coconut ,arecanut,spices and cashe

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.
Edneer Mutt (10 km north east of Kasargod)
The Mutt of Edneer renowned as a seat of art and learning belongs to the Sankaracharya tradition.

Kanwatteertha Beach (3 Km from Manjeswaram)
A large swimming pool - like formation of the sea on the vast beach is the main attraction.
PLACES OF MAJOR ATTRACTION AND IMPORTANCE
 
ADOOR 
45 KMs east of Kasargod town. Famous for its ancient Siva Temple belonged to have been founded by Arjuna. The place where the Kiratha Yuddham battle between Arjuna and Lord Siva took place according to legend. The adjascent forest not frequented by men is considered the abode of Lord Siva and his devine consort. The stream below the valley is nature bounty.

AJANOOR 
The famous Madiyan Kulom temple is situated in Ajanur village. It is about five kms. from Kanhangad, the headquarters of Hosdurg taluk. The main deity of the temple is Bhadrakali; but there are also other deities like Kshetrapalan, Bhagavathi and Bhairavan. A pecularity of this temple is that a Brahmin priest performs pooja only in the noon, while the morning and evening poojas are performed by a sect called Maniyanis. The festivals in the temple fall during the months of Edavam (May, June) and Dhanu (December, January) and on these days all the poojas are performed in connection with this festival. 

ANANDASHRAM & NITYANANDASRAMAM 
These are the two notable asramams in Kanhangad. Anandashramam, situated about five kms. east of the Kanhangad Railway Station, was founded in 1939 by Swami Ramadas, a great Vaishnava saint of modern times. The main asramam and other buildings have a beautiful setting in the midst of shady mango, coconut and other groves.There is a hill to the east of the asramam, to which the dovotees retire for quiet meditation and from its west, the surrounding extensive landscape can be seen in its natural grandeur. The spot at the highest point of the hill is so fascinating that the devotees, who go up the hill and sit silently, are blessed with deep peace and transquillity.The Nityanandasramam, which is situated on the hillock about half a km. south of the Hosdurg taluk office, was founded by Swami Nityananda. The spot was at first part of a forest area. Here Swami Nityananda constructed 45 guhas (caves) in a mountain slope. There is a temple built in 1963, after the style and design of the famous Somanatha Temple in Gujarat. A full size statue of Swami Nityananda in sitting posture made of panchaloha is one of the attractions of the asramam. 

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. The industrial park of KINFRA is situated here. 

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 uner the Manglore Diocese, has celebrated its centenary recently and also renovated.

BELLIKOTH 
Another centre in Ajanoor village renowned as the birth placeof Poet P.Kunhiraman Nair, veteren freedom fighter and playright Vidwan P.Kelu Nair and Rasika siromani Kanan Nair. A cultural centre of the district.

CHANDRAGIRI FORT 
Chandragiri lies three kms. 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 mosque is situated nearby and the view of the bridge with the mosque in the background is one of the most attractive sights on a drive along the NH 17 from Kannur to Kasargod. A longest railway tunnel in Kerala passes through Chandragiri Hills. A boat club has been recently started here.

CHERUVATHUR 
The place of illustrious poets and scholars of Kuttamath Kunniyur family. The Veeramala hills at this place has the ruins of a Dutch fort built in the 18th centuary, is a picnic spot.

EDNEER MUTT 
It is 10 Km. North East of Kasargod. This Mutt belongs to the Sankaracharya tradition, presently renowned as a seat of art and learning.GOVINDA PAI MEMORIAL In Manjeswar, is the native place of M.Govinda Pai (1883-1963), one of the greatest Kannada poets of modern time. He was conferred the title of "Poet Laureat" by the erstwhile Government of Madras. He is known as Rashtra Kavi Govinda Pai.

HOSDURG FORT 
The fort with its round bastion looks imposing from a distance. Somashekara Nayak of Ikkeri dynasty built the fort. The place made well known by the Nithyanandasram with 45 caves.

KAMMATAM KAVU 
An evergreen forest of about 50-60 acres with a perenial stream is a centre of worship connected with Kammadam Bhagavathi Temple.KANJAN JUNGA 16 KMs east of Kasargod is an artist village, established by Artist P.S.Pununchithaya, the renowned artist of the west coast.

KANWATHEERTHA BEACH RESORT 
3 Km. north of Manjeshwar, has a large swimming pool lake, and a beach of 4 Km. length. The swimming pool is formed by sea water in the neat vast beach is one of the gifts of nature.

KARIANGODE RIVER 
Running through the hills and dales of Hosdurg Taluk. Immorlised as Tejaswini by great novelist Niranjana laps on its shore. The famous village of Kayyur - the cradle of agrarian revolutions where the farmers and farm workers staged a historic battle against feudalism and the British imperialism.

KASARGOD TOWN 
The Muncipal town is situated on the bank of river Chandragiri. The confluence of several languages and culture where eight languages are spoken. The splendour of Kasaragod Saree comparable to that of Kanjeepuram is a cynosure of the market. 
.
KOTTANCHERI HILLS 
The rain forest near Konnakkad 30 KM north- east of Kanhangad. Beautiful picnic centre and ideal for trekking. Thalakkaveri in the Brahmagiri mountain of Coorg is near this hills. Reflection of genetic beauty of Kodaikkanal.

KOTTAPPURAM 
Mud fort build by the Nileshwar Rajas and later annexed by Bednore Nayaks in the 18th centuary. A Juma masjid and a Hindu shrine stand close by.

KUDLU 
Kasargod suburb - 4Km. towards north, where famous eight day discourse between Madhavacharya, the great Dwaita Philosopher and Trivikrama Pandit, the famous Adwaita Scholar took place, in the presence of King Jayasimha of Kumbla ended in the victory of Madhavacharya and the acceptance of Dwaita philosophy by Trivikrama Pandit. The 75 year old CPCRI - the premier plantation crop research institute is located here.

KUMBALA 
13 Km. north of Kasargod. The ancient seat of Rajas of Kumbala. The town stands on a bold peninsula in a lagoon seperated from the sea by a sand spit and connected to it by a narrow channel. Parthi Subbha, father of Yakshagana was born here in the 18th centuary. Famous Gopalakrishna temple situated here.

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 turrests and gables and the copper plate roofing rises magestically against the beautiful land scape 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 heros in wood. A closer examination of the woodcarvings 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 façade of the second and third storeys 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. 

MAIPADY PALACE 
Eight Km. east of Kasargod on the Kasargod-Perla road. There are ancient palaces of Kumbala Rajas.

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. 

MANJESWAR 
Lies in the northern most extrimity of Kerala and a place of historical and religious importance. For a long time it was the seat of a flourishing community Gowda Saraswatha or Konkini Brahmins. Famous for the two old Jaina Bastis at Bangra Manjeswar. Manjula Kshethra Mahathmya a legend which deals with the history of this place. The birth place of Rashtra Kavi Govinda Pai. 

NELLIKUNNU MOSQUE 
Famous for Uroos, this mosque attracts thousands. Very near to Kasargod town. The Nercha celebration, during the second half of November, lasts for one week.

NILESHWAR 
Abbreviated form of Nilakanta Iswar. Formerly seat of Nileshwar Rajas who belonged to the Kolathiri family. The place witnesed the battle between Bednore Nayaks and Nileshwar Rajas. The cultural centre of the District. In and around there are several Kavus where nature, God and man commune serene silence. Major among them is Mannan purathu Kavu, wherethe grand finale of the annual temple festival of the region takes place. Porattu of Anjoottambalam Veerarkavu draws large crowds. Porattu is the satrical representation of everyday life presented in pageantry during the Poram. 

PERNE 
Out of the 28 Muchilottu Bhagavathi temples, Perne in the northern most and the only one north of Chandragiri seema situated in the vicinity of Ananthapuram. The mass marriage at the time of Pooram festival in the month of Meenam is a unique feature of this temple.

POSADIGUMPE 
An ideal picnic centre and tourist resort located on a hillock 487.68 metres above sea level in Dharmathadka 30 KM north-east of Kasargod. From the hill top one can see the Arabian Sea, Manglore, Kudremukh, etc.

POVVAL FORT 
An old fashoned fort on the Kasargod-Mulleria route about 10 KMs from Kasargod.

RANIPURAM 
Formerly known as Madathumala. About 48 KMs east of Kanhangad. Lying 780 metres above sea level. In beauty and boundry of nature comparable to Ooty. An ideal place for trekking. Tourist cottages are available here.

TRIKARIPUR 
The old seat of Thazekkattu mana famous for T.S.Thirumumbu, poet and freedom fighter. Birth place of Guru Chandu Panikkar the famous Kathakali artist.

TRIKKANAD & PANDYAN KALLU 
A famous temple on the seashore near the Bekal fort, dedicated to Lord Siva. Also known as Dhakshina Kashi. Pandyan Kallu, a rock rising in the sea about 2 KM from Trikkannad is an ideal place for adventurous swimmers. It has the legend that ship of one of the Pandya King who attacked the Trikkannad temple was converted into a rock by Lord Siva. Palakkunnu Bhagavathi Kshethram, one KM north of Trikkannad is famous for annual Bharani festival, which attracts thousands.

TULUR VANAM 
Also known as Kekulom (the eastern place). Near Panathur Temple here is consecrated to Kshethrapalan and Bhagavathy. Eight day annual festival attracts large crowd from all over the district as well as from Coorg.

VALIYAPARAMBA 
5 KMs south west of Cheruvathur seperated from the mainland by back waters. One of the main tourist spots of the District. This is an island in the Arabian Sea. An ideal place for picnic also a fishing centre. 

VEERAMALA HILLS 
Situated at Cheruvathur. Hilltop with ruins of a Dutch fort built in the 18th century. A picnic spot from where the natural beauty of Kariangode River and surroundings can be enjoyed.