Exploring Bekal Fort & Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach | Learn With Pari
If you’re looking for a perfect blend of nature, history, and adventure, a road trip from Bangalore to Kerala’s coastal gems—Kannur and Kasaragod—is a must-do! In this Part 1 of our road trip series, we’ll explore the scenic journey and stop at two stunning destinations: Bekal Fort and Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a weekend escape, or just want to teach your little ones about the beauty and culture of South India, this journey is a great experience. And yes, Pari absolutely loved it!
đź“Ť Route Overview
- Start Point: Bangalore, Karnataka
- Stop 1: Bekal, Kasaragod District
- Stop 2: Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, Kannur
- Distance: Approx. 360–400 km (one way)
- Time: Around 9–10 hours by road
- Best Time to Visit: October to March (Pleasant weather and less humidity)
🌴 First Stop – Bekal, Kasaragod: A Fort by the Sea
🏰 Bekal Fort – Where History Meets the Ocean
As we entered Kasaragod district, our first major stop was the iconic Bekal Fort—Kerala’s largest and most well-preserved fort. The views here are breathtaking! Imagine an old stone fort sitting quietly by the Arabian Sea, with waves crashing just below its walls.
Why Kids Love It:
- Huge open spaces to run around
- Exploring tunnels and old watchtowers feels like a real-life treasure hunt
- The view from the top is magical—especially at sunset!
Why Parents Love It:
- It’s clean, well-maintained, and offers beautiful photography spots.
- Teaches children about history, architecture, and nature—perfect for learning on the go!
Tip: Carry water, hats, and sunscreen. The sun can get strong during the day.
🏖️ Next Stop – Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, Kannur
After soaking in history, it was time for something fun and unique—a beach where you can drive your car on the sand! Yes, you heard that right.
🚙 Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach – A Beach Drive Adventure
This is India’s longest drive-in beach and the only one in Kerala. It stretches for over 4 km, and the compact sand allows you to drive safely along the shoreline. It’s a surreal experience!
What We Did:
- Took our car right onto the beach (felt like a movie scene!)
- Played in the water and built sandcastles with Pari
- Enjoyed fresh coconut water from local vendors
- Watched the sunset while sitting on our car’s bonnet
Safety Tip: Drive slow, avoid the water’s edge, and be cautious during high tide.
Family Fun Tip: Take a picnic basket and spend a couple of hours here. There’s plenty of space for kids to play and explore.
🍽️ Where to Eat
- Bekal: Try local Kerala meals (veg & non-veg) at small eateries around the fort.
- Muzhappilangad: There are a few beachside stalls offering snacks like banana fritters (pazham pori), tea, and seafood.
🏨 Stay Options
- Near Bekal:
- Budget: Local homestays and small hotels
- Luxury: The Lalit Resort & Spa Bekal (perfect for families)
- Near Muzhappilangad/Kannur:
- Try staying in Kannur city or a beachfront homestay for the best experience.
🧳 Travel Tips for Families
- Start early from Bangalore to avoid traffic and reach Bekal by evening.
- Pack snacks, games, and music for the journey.
- Book your stay in advance, especially during weekends or holiday seasons.
- Keep Google Maps offline as network can get patchy in some areas.
- Encourage kids to keep a travel journal—a fun way to learn and remember!
đź“š What Pari Learned on This Trip
- A bit of Kerala’s rich history through Bekal Fort
- The concept of eco-friendly tourism
- How to observe nature, from waves to seashells and birds
- The joy of travel as a family
🌟 Coming Up in Part 2…
We’ll head deeper into Kannur to explore its Theyyam culture, visit the beautiful Payyambalam Beach, and discover hidden gems in Kasaragod! Stay tuned for more learning, fun, and travel tips from Pari’s travel diary.
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