About:

Chandragiri fort lies 3 km south of Kasargod town, Kasargid district, kerala. It has a large square situated high above the Chandragiri River on its southern bank. This fort is situated on the bank of the Chandragiri River and marked the traditional boundary between Kerala and the Tuluva Kingdom. Built in 1000 AD in the form of fortifications with bastions and a steep moat, Chandragiri was under the rule of Yadavarayas for about three centuries and came into the control of Vijayanagara rulers in 1367. It rose into prominence in 1568 AD and remained as seat of power for the later Vijayanagara kings under whose reign the fortified area was further extended and some of the magnificent buildings and temples were constructed.The fort is strategically located over the top of a small 183m hill. The entrance of this Mahal faces the hill on the north while the balconies and windows on the south overlooking the extensive grounds where perhaps the troops paraded. The southern side of the hill is enclosed by strong walls, surrounded by a ditch so as to prevent any intruder from entering into the fort. The remains of the lower fort contain the two Mahals, the lower portion of which is built in stone and the upper in brick.Chandragiri Fort grants an exciting visible horizon of the river and the Arabian Sea.A deep well and a pond with flight of steps are there inside the fort. The fort with an area of 7.76 acres is now protected monument under the department of Archaeology.



Thus the Chandragiri Fort was built by Sivappa Naik for the defence of his kingdom. The fort changed hands over the years to Hyder Ali of Mysore and then to the British East India Company. Today it is a protected monument under the State Archaeology Department. The Chandragiri region was rejoined to the State of Kerala through the State Reorganisation Act, 1956, Government of India.It is also a vantage point to watch the sunset. The ancient Kizhur temple nearby celebrates a grand annual festival called Pattutsavam. The Chandragiri Boat Club run by the Bekal Resorts Development Corporation conductsboat trips to nearby islands and palm groves on the river.Kizhur Sastha Temple, known for its annual festival called 'Pattu Utsavam' and a mosque is located nearby the fort.House boat cruise through the chandragiri river will be an unforgettable experience for the tourists. This lighting system makes the fort look even more beautiful and iseye-catching during night time. The modern town of Chandragiri lies to the east of the hill on which the fort stands.

Location info:

Address: Chandragiri, Kasargod District, Kerala, India.
District: Kasargode District
Nearest City: Kanhangad, kudlu, mangalorea and Thiruvallam
Best time to visit: November to April.

Climate/Weather:

The climate is equable and varies little from season to season. The average maximum temperature is 31.2°C and minimum is 23.6°C.

History:

The history tells that In earlier days, the river was considered to be the border of two powerful kingdoms - Kolathunadu and Thulunadu. When Thulunadu was captured by the Vijayanagara Empire, the Kolathunadu kings lost the Chandragiri region to them. During the decline of the Vijayanagara empire the area was administratively looked after by the Keladi Nayakas of Ikkeri. When the Vijayanagara empire fell in the 16th century, Vengappa Nayaka declared independence. Later Shivappa Nayaka took over the reins. He built a chain of forts of which Chandragiri is part.

 

Interesting things to do:

This is the historical fort, So see the remains of this fort, Annual festival called 'Pattu Utsavam' , mosque nearby, best thing to do is House boat cruise through the chandragiri river and also visit nearby places like bekal fort, dam and Hosdurg fort.

Interesting things to Visit:

Bekal fort:

Bekal fort, the largest and the best-preserved fort in Kerala, lies in Pallikere, and its 16 Kms south of Kasaragod on the national highway at the northern tip of the state. The fort, a circular imposing structure of laterite rising 130 ft. above sea level, stands on a 35 acre headland that runs into the Arabian sea.

Bekal Hole Aqua Park:

Bekal Hole Aqua Park is located near Valiyaparamba in Bekal. It is the perfect place water sport freaks who wish to chill out amidst an array of unique water sports.

Bekal Beach:

Bekal is a beach destination of the future. It has long palm-fringed beaches and a rocky headland topped by the huge Bekal fort. This beach is being developed a resort. But for now, you can still savour the touch of history as you view the serene Lakshadweep Sea from the tall observation towers of the fort's once huge cannon emplacements. Bekal Beach is situated at the northern tip of Kerala, Bekal is a beach destination of the future. It has long palm-fringed beaches and a rocky headland topped by the huge Bekal fort.

Hosdurg Beach:

This beach is located 12 kms south of Bekal is the Hosdurg beach. It is home to the many marvelous forts in Kasargode District. The Hosdurg Fort built by the Ikkeri Nayaks in mid-16th century draws the closest attention of the visitors.

Kappil Beach:

The secluded Kappil Beach is loacted 6 kms to the north of Bekal. The long stretch is wide and clean enough for swimming and beach walking. The beach has the massive rock, the Kodi Cliff, which act as a resting place for the visitors.

Valiyaparamba Backwaters:

Valiyaparamba is a backwater draw out situated in the district of Kasargod of Kerala. Circulated by 4 rivers flecked by quit number of small islands, Valiyaparamba is incredibly growing as an excellent backwater resort which grants captivating boat cruises. Valiyaparamba, a piece of land dissevered from the solid ground is a significant and notable fishing centre. The Valiyaparamba is just some few kilometers away from Bekal, where it just takes little hour's of ride to reach the place.

Chandragiri River:

Chandragiri River is Located in Southeast of Kasaragod town on the banks of the Chandragiri river, Kasaragod district, north Kerala.The river originates in a village called Koinadu of Kodagu district in Karnataka state. Chandragiri fort lies three km south of Kasargod town.

Madhur Sreemad Anantheswara Vinayaka Temple:

The madhur Sreemad Anantheswara Temple is located 8 kilometers northeast of Kasaragod town on the banks of the Madhuvahini River. The main attractions in the temple are its unique three-tiered dome, copper-plated roofing and a cloistered court rises. This temple is dedicated to Mahaganapathi. The idol here made of alluvial soil. This idol was later installed in the temple and thats how the Madhur Mahalingeswara Temple (dedicated to Lord Siva) became Madhur Mahaganapathi Temple. It is one of the most important Ganapathy temples in South India. People from all over South India throng in to the temple during the time of festivals happen here. The temple offers Veda classes to young students.

Mapilathody Jama Masjid:

This masjid is very old and run by Ansarul Islam Committee. The reconstruction in the year 2005.

Mobile range info:

How to reach?

Nearest Railway Station:

Kasaragod Railway Station

Nearest Airport:

Mangalore Airport

Road Transport:

Bekal is connected to Mangalore, Kannur, Kozhikode and Mumbai by NH17. KRTC Buses frequently operates from one place to another.NH 17 up to Kasaragod and Bekal state Highway from Kasaragod town (65 KM) and Nearest towns are Kanhangad and Kasargod, both are about 12 km away.

Nearest Visiting places:

Ranipuram:

The former Madathumala has taken this new name, Ranipuram recently. Lying 780 meters above the sea level, it is 80 kms away from Kasargod which is 48 kms east of Kanhangad. The natural beauty of this place is comparable only to Ooty.

Nityanandasramam:

There are two notable asramams in Kanhangad, the Nityanandasramam and Anandasramam. Nityanandasramam is situated on a hillock about half a km south of the Housdurg taluk office. It was founded by swami Nityananda. Here swami Nityananda constructed 45 caves in a mountain slope. There is a temple built in 1963 after the style and design of the famous Somantha temple in Gurjarat. Anandasramam was founded by swamin Ramdas in 1939.

Ananthapura Lake Temple:

Ananthapura is the only lake temple in Kerala and is located around 30 kilometers from Bekal Fort. The original deity of Sree Ananthapadmanabha (Trivandrum) is located here.

Kanwatheertha Beach:

The Kanwatheertha Beach is famous for a large swimming pool-like formation of the sea on the vast beach and has people coming every now and then to enjoy a swim in the calm waters.

Anjaneya Temple:

The temple at the entrance of the fort is dedicated to Sree Hanuman. Said to be as old as the fort itself, the shrine was recently renovated and attracts hundreds of devotees from far and near.

Kottancherry:

This place bears great resemblance to the scenic beauty of Kodaikanal. The rain forests near Konnakkad are ideal for trekking. It is 30 km north east of Kanhangad.

Kammatam Kavu :

It is much visited for its evergreen forest range, spread over 50-60 acres of land. Take a safari ride in this forest range, it can be a marvelous experience.

Veeramala Hills:

This is a small mountain situated at Cheruvathur from where the natural beauty of Kariangode river and surroundings can be enjoyed. The major attraction here is the ruins of a Dutch fort built in the 18the century.

Maipady Palace:

Maipady palace is about 8kms from Kasargod town on Kasargod-Perla road. It was once the seat of the Kumbla Rajas.

Trikkaripur:

Located on the south of Kasargod, the village of Trikkaripur was the old seat of Thazhekattu Mana. The village is famous for its communal harmony and 'Theyyam', a ritual art form. Trikkaripur is the hometown of many famous personalities such as Guru Chandu Panikkar, Kathakali artist; T S Thirumumb, poet and freedom fighter; K.M.Kunhambu, artist and social servant.

Kottancheri Hills:

Kottancheri Hills are the rain forest near Konnakkad 30 Km north- east of Kanhangad. It is a beautiful picnic center and ideal for trekking. Thalakkaveri in the Brahmagiri mountain of Coorg is near to these hills.

Anandashram:

Anandashram is a spiritualcentre founded by Pujya Swami Ramdas and Mother Krishnabai, in 1931, at Kanhangad, in the Mangalore-Shoranur sector of Southern Railway Kerala.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

Indian oil petrol pump
Kasaragod, Kerala

Petrol Pump
Kanhangad, Kasaragod
Kerala.

Petrol Pump
Dakshina Kannada
Karnataka.

Kanachur Auto Services
University Road, Deralakatte
Mangalore, Karnataka 574160
Tel: 0824 2203782.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Hotel Apsara Regency
Opp. KSRTC Bus Stand
Kasaragod, Kerala
Tel: 04994 - 230124.

Shalimar Hotel
Kasaragod, Kasaragod
Kerala
Tel: 09995244467.

Hotel Poonja International
Mangalore, Dakshina Kannada
Karnataka
Tel: 0824 2440169.

The Gateway Hotel
Mangalore Old Port
Mangaluru, Karnataka 575001
Tel: 0824 6660420.

Hotel Ganesh Bhavan
Nr. Kotacherry Circle
Kanhangad, Kasaragod
Kerala.

Elite Hotel
Kanhangad, Kasaragod
Kerala.

Things to carry:

Tips & Suggestions:

Help Line/Phone Number:

Police Station:

Bekal police station
Bekal, Kerala.

Police Station
Puttur, Dakshina Kannada
Karnataka.

Police Station
Ullal, Dakshina Kannada
Karnataka.

Police Station
Bantwal, Karnataka.

Kadri Police Station
Mangalore, Dakshina Kannada
Karnataka.

Nearest Hospital:

Malik Deenar Charitable Hospital
Kasaragod, Kasaragod
Kerala.

Government Hospital
Kasaragod, Kasaragod
Kerala.

AJ Hospital
Kuntikana, Bejai, Mangalore
Karnataka 575004
0824 2225533.

EK Nayanar Memorial Co-Operative Hospital
Chengala, Kasaragod
Kerala.

Government Hospital
Kasaragod, Kerala.

Society/Community Phone Number:

Link:

http://kasaragods.blogspot.com/2009/08/chandragiri-fort.html

Photo Gallery

Video Gallery

Bekal Beach
This is Situated at the northern tip of Kerala, Bekal Beach is only 14 km away from Kasargode,79 km from Kannur, 2km from kovalam. Bekal is a beach destination of the future. It has long palm-fringed beaches and a rocky headland topped by the huge Bekal fort. This beach is being developed a resort. But for now, you can still savour the touch of history as you view the serene Lakshadweep Sea from the tall observation towers of the fort's once huge cannon emplacements. Bekal Beach is situated at the northern tip of Kerala, 79 km from Kannur; Bekal is a beach destination of the future. It has long palm-fringed beaches and a rocky headland topped by the huge Bekal fort.....more
Kanwatheertha Beach
Kanwatheertha Beach is situated 3 km from Manjeswar, Kasargod District, Kerala. Kanwatheertha Beach is a renowned beach in Kerala, quite well known for its scenic beauty. This Kanwatheertha Beach is a very famous tourist spot in Kerala. Aqua-Tourism is one of the most significant aspects of Kerala and Kanwatheertha Beach is a distinctive spot to substantiate on this interesting feature. Kanwatheertha Beach welcomes you all to unravel its charm and spirit. This charming lagoon is a ideal place only for tranquil lovers but also for fun loving people.....more
Kappil Beach
The Kappil beach is located in Kasargode District, its a paradise for those tourists and visitors who prefer peaceful and quite vacations, in the lap of nature. The secluded and somewhat unexplored Kappil Beach is an ideal spot for such nature lovers and attracts a large number of such tourists every year. This sun-drenched Kappil beach is a perfect getaway after a hectic tour of the nearby Bekal Fort, some six km away. Besides the natural beauty of the beach, adventure-loving souls can even ascend the nearby Kodi cliff to get a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea. For those who prefer Thoreau to Harold Robbins, the secluded and relatively unexplored Kappil Beach should prove idyllic.....more
Pallikere Beach
The Pallikere beach presents a picturesque sight of the Bekal fort, kasargode District.. Hence a tour to Pallikere beach means an intermingling of culture and history. The annual Kochi festival which is held on the white sands of the Pallikere beach is a major tourist attraction. The Pallikere beach is a favorite haunt for the tourists.This shallow beach offers a spectacular view of the fort and has ample facilities for recreation and relaxation. This beautiful expanse of shallow waters and beach offers a spectacular view of the Bekal fort. The public beach has ample space for recreation and relaxation. With international standard facilities to be developed here, Pallikere will rank among the best beaches in the country.....more
Valiyaparamba Backwater
Valiyaparamba is a backwater draw out situated in the district of Kasargod of Kerala. Circulated by 4 rivers flecked by quit number of small islands, Valiyaparamba is incredibly growing as an excellent backwater resort which grants captivating boat cruises. Valiyaparamba, a piece of land dissevered from the solid ground is a significant and notable fishing centre. The Valiyaparamba is just some few kilometers away from Bekal, where it just takes little hour's of ride to reach the place. The Valiyaparamba is the most renowned tourism spot that grabs the attention of the visitors by its scenic look. Moreover, Valiyaparamba is an ideal place to plan your picnic.....more
Kasaragod City
Kasargod is located in the northern part of Kerala. The place is known for its handloom and coir industry. Also, it is famous for spectacular items of bell metal. Though still untouched by urban lifestyle, Kasargod tourism is fast catching up because of its natural beauty. The main economic activity of people of Kasargod is fishing. While you travel to Kasargod, you will see the forest-covered lush green Western Ghats towards the East and the vast Arabian Sea towards the West. It is flanked by two main rivers, Talapadi and the Trikaripur in north and south respectively.Kasargod has a variety of temples and places of worship that have a distinct architectural style.....more
Bekal Fort
Bekal fort, the largest and the best-preserved fort in Kerala, lies in Pallikere, and its 16 Kms south of Kasaragod on the national highway at the northern tip of the state. The fort, a circular imposing structure of laterite rising 130 ft. above sea level, stands on a 35 acre headland that runs into the Arabian sea.Bekal fort is one among them .It is a famous tourist place in Kerala the land of yoga and Ayur Veda .Bekal fort is the largest and best preserved fort of kerala and has a grate tourist attraction.The fort is situated north of kerala at around 10km north of kanghangad town and has great historical and archeological interest. Bekal Fort, which is about 350 years old, is the largest fort in Kerala. It is proposed to be developed into a tourist complex.....more
Hosdurg Fort
Hosdurg Fort is situated about 4km east of Kanhangad town, Kasargod district, kerala which is around 23kms and 15kms south east of Kasargod town. Hosdurg Fort with its round bastion looks imposing from a distance. Somashekara Nayaka of Keladi Nayaka dynasty of Ikkeri built the fort. The name Hosdurg is derived from the kannada word Hosa (which means new) and Durga (which means Fort) and was once an integral part of South Canara.The place made well known by the Nithyanandasram with 45 caves.This fort is also known as Kanhangad fort, the fort is surrounded by a high brick wall with round bastions. Although only the ruins of the old fort remain, the legacy of the fort town endures to this day.....more
Valiyaparamba Island
Valiyaparamba is a small island in the Arabian Sea in the Kasaragod district of Kerala state, south India. It is one of the main tourist spots of the district and also a fishing centreValiyaparamba is perhaps the most scenic backwater stretch in Kerala. Fed by four rivers and dotted with numerous little islands,Valiyaparamba, about 30 km from Bekal, Kasaragod, North Kerala.Valiyaparamba is fast turning into a much favoured backwater resort that offers enchanting boat cruises.Valiyaparamba is a beautiful backwater destination. A tour to Valiyaparamba will provide you a holiday in one of the most serene and tranquil destinations of Kerala. Located near Kasargod, Valiyaparamba is a small island favored by the tourists who search for some seclusion in the lap of nature.....more
Malik Dinar Mosque
The mosque, Juma Masjid, which is one one of the best kept and mosque attractive in the district, is located at Thalankara. It contains the grave of Malik Ibn Mohammed, one of the descendants of Malik Ibn Dinar and the places 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. Malik Dinar mosque Kasaragod acquired over the years, considerable importance as a center of Islam on the west coast. It is the site of one of the mosques believed to have been founded by Malik Ibn Dinar.....more
Chandragiri River
Chandragiri River is Located in Southeast of Kasaragod town on the banks of the Chandragiri river, Kasaragod district, north Kerala.The river originates in a village called Koinadu of Kodagu district in Karnataka state. Chandragiri fort lies three km south of Kasargod town. It has a large square situated high above the Chandragiri River on its southern bank. In the 17th century Sivappa Nayak of Bednore has built the fort. He also stablished his authority over the area and built a chain of forts. This fort is situated on the bank of the Chandragiri River and marked the traditional boundary between Kerala and the Tuluva Kingdom. There is a beautiful bridge over the Chandragiri River at Thekkil at the distance of five miles from Chandragiri.....more
Neeleshwaram River
The Nileswaram River is located 45km from kasargod and 12 km from bekal, Kasargod District, Kerala.It Flows through Nileswaram, the seat of the Rajas of a bygone era, palaces, sacred groves, shrines, festivals and yoga centres. River Cruises are the best kept secret of Nileswaram. Cruising along the Tejaswini River can make you discover the magic of life on River. BRDC ( Bekal Resorts Development Corporation ) runs several Houseboat cruises on the Tejaswini River from Kottapuram in Nileswar to Valiyaparamba. The town is also famous for its numerous kavus (shrines)temple festivals and the Kavil Bhavan Yoga and Cultural Centre which offers rejuvenation therapy and naturopathy treatments like mud and herbal baths.....more
Uppala River
Uppala river is a situated in Kasargod District of Kerala and is 15 km south of Manjeshwar and its close to the Arabian Sea,Uppala is a populated place in Kerala, The river shirrriya & abijna and uppala joins here. The length of the river is about 50 km.Originating 150 m height from the sea level, the river passes through Kasargod District in Kerala, and merges in the Arabian Sea.Uppala River, also known as Kalai River, originates from the Veerakamba Hills in Karnataka.Manjeswar river joins from the north eastern side and Uppala river (broader river) joins from the south eastern side. Ancient uppala bridge constructed at NH 17, across Uppala river near Hosangadi and You can also Add Hotel of any type so Tourists can stay in your Hotel in Uppala River.....more
Ananathpura Temple
The Ananthapura temple is situated in the central part of a lake of the 31-km from Bekal at Ananthapura,Kasargod District, Kerala. The Ananthapura temple is just five kilometers away from Kumbla. The Ananthapura temple is very familiar, as it is the only lake temple that has the Moolasthana of the Anantha Padmanabha Swami. The other major attraction of the Ananthapura temple is they can be visited by any group of visitors irrespective to caste, creed and religion. The house of worship is surrounded by a porch along the outside of a building called Chuttambalam. The temple has a small pond where water will stays with respect to seasonal changes.The presiding of the temple is Lord Vishnu seated on the serpent god, Adishesha.....more