Bekal Fort

Bekal covers around forty acres on a headland in northern Kerala, built of laterite blocks in the seventeenth century under the Keladi Nayakas and later held by Tipu Sultan and the British. Its plan is roughly keyhole-shaped, with walls running to the water and a bastion at the seaward point. The distinctive feature is defensive: holes are cut through the walls at three levels, the upper for firing on distant attackers, the middle at closer range and the lowest for striking those who reached the base. An observation tower gives a view along the coast, and the beach below is broad and quiet.

What you actually see

• The laterite walls - the fort circuit running to the water.
• The three-level loopholes - firing holes graded by range.
• The observation tower - the lookout with views along the coast.
• The sea bastion - the point projecting into the Arabian Sea.

When to go

October to March for dry weather; the northern Kerala monsoon is very heavy. Late afternoon light on the laterite is best and sunset from the walls is the usual timing.

Honest expectations

The interior is largely open grass with few buildings. There is no shade on the walls. The site is used for film shoots and closes occasionally.

Nearby

Kasaragod lies north; Kannur is south.