Wednesday 29 May 2013

TRIP TO KASARGOD, KERALA, INDIA

Kasargod is the northernmost district of kerala.Kasargod is known as the land Yekshgana and Theyyams

There are different views on the derivation of the name "Kasargod".One view is that it is the combination of two Sanskrit words "kaasaara"(which means lake or pond) and “ kroda “(which means a place where treasure is kept). Another view is that it is the place where Kaasaraka trees (Strychnos nux vomica or Kaanjiram or Kaaraskara) are in abundance. Bothe views are relevant as there are large number of rivers, lakes and ponds in the coastal belt of the district besides thick flora consisting of innumerable varieties of trees, shribs etc. particularly plentitude of Kaasaraka trees. Kasargod is equivalent to the older territory of Gods, enticing beaches, affluent and splashing lakes, verdant green hills, and splendid forts. Located in northernmost region of Kerala, Kasaragod is one of the finest tourist spots that are still untouched by human race or urbanization. Kasargod Beach can be the finest place to spend your vacation. It is a extensive and lengthy beach, consecrated with a big number of attractive swimming pool like figures created innately. These innate creations have become the main appeal of the Kasargod Beach. However, Kasargod Tourism also promotes Ananthapura Lake Temple, Sree Manantheswara Vinayaka Temple, Thapotsavam, Bekal Hole Aqua Park, Kanwatheertha Beach and several other appealing locations as well in Kasargod. Ananthapura Lake Temple is considered to be an exceptional and exclusive lake temple in entire Kerala. Global as well as Indian tourists throng this exciting place every year especially during the summer season.

Bekal Hole Aqua Park is situated on the northern side of Bekal

Main Attraction:

Bakel:

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.
Unlike most other Indian Forts, Bekal fort was not a center of administration, for no remains of a Palace are found within the Fort. Probably the fort was built for fulfilling the defence requirements. The holes on the outerwalls 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 medival technology of defence strategy. Apart from this, the wild and ecstatic beauty of the setting sun is a glorious presence in the fort. [more]

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 considerable importance as a center of Islam.The historic Malik Deenar Juma Masjid built in the typical Kerala style is believed to have been founded by 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.


How to reach KasarGod: 

By Air

Mangalore is the nearest airport from Kasargod located at a distance of 50 kilometers. The next closest airport would be at Cochin, which is almost 400 kilometers away from Kasargod.

By Rail
The city of Kasargod has a railway station and there are many trains that ply from this place to other parts of the country.

By Roadways

Kasargod has a wide network of roads that connect it with the rest of Kerala and in a way, the whole of India. You can always hire private buses and cabs to reach this place by road.


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