A Serene Escape to Bekal

Saturday, October 14: Arrival and Bekal Fort

Welcome to Bekal! Begin your adventure by checking into your hotel and freshening up after your journey. In the morning, head to Bekal Fort, a magnificent 17th-century fort that offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Explore the well-preserved citadel, ancient tunnels, and observation towers. Take a leisurely walk along the fort's ramparts and soak in the historical ambiance. In the afternoon, visit Kappil Beach, located nearby. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the sandy shores and watch the sunset. For dinner, savor delicious local cuisine at a restaurant overlooking the beach.

• Bekal Fort: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kappil Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 15: Backwaters and Houseboat Experience

Embark on a serene backwater journey in Valiyaparamba, a scenic stretch of backwaters. Start your morning with a relaxing boat ride, gliding through the tranquil waters surrounded by lush greenery and coconut groves. Marvel at the picturesque landscapes and keep an eye out for vibrant bird species. Indulge in a sumptuous lunch onboard a traditional Kerala houseboat, enjoying delectable local delicacies. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Bekal Beach Park, where you can unwind on the sandy shores or take a dip in the sea. In the evening, savor a traditional Kathakali dance performance, showcasing the vibrant culture of Kerala.

• Valiyaparamba Backwaters: Estimated cost - Rs 1000 per person, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Bekal Beach Park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: Estimated cost - Rs 300-500 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A traditional Kerala breakfast awaits you at Kudumbashree Restaurant, offering a variety of authentic dishes like appam, puttu, and dosa. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
• Indulge in a delightful seafood lunch at Nalukettu Restaurant, known for its fresh catch of the day cooked in traditional Kerala style. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
• For a delicious dinner experience, head to Moonlight Restaurant, specializing in North Indian and Chinese cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.

Monday, October 16: Bekal Hole Aqua Park and Departure

On your final day, visit Bekal Hole Aqua Park, a thrilling water park with exciting water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. Spend the morning enjoying the exhilarating rides and cooling off in the pools. Afterward, take a short drive to Chandragiri Fort, a lesser-known gem that offers panoramic views of the Bekal backwaters. Take a leisurely walk around the fort and admire the stunning vistas. Finally, it's time to bid farewell to Bekal as you check out from your hotel and head to the airport for your departure.

• Bekal Hole Aqua Park: Estimated cost - Rs 500-700 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Chandragiri Fort: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have some extra time in Bekal, make sure to visit the Ananthapura Lake Temple, located on a small island in the middle of a lake. This ancient temple is believed to be the original seat of Lord Anantha, the serpent god. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Bekal Organic Park, where you can explore lush gardens, learn about organic farming, and enjoy a peaceful picnic. To experience local flavors, head to Kottancheri Hills, a spice plantation where you can learn about different spices and even participate in spice picking. These hidden gems offer a unique glimpse into the local culture and natural beauty of Bekal.

Don't forget to check hotel and flight prices for your Bekal getaway!