Kasaragod Bekal Fort & North Kerala Explorer

Arrive at Kozhikode (Calicut). Visit Kappad Beach — historically significant as the spot where Vasco da Gama landed in 1498, marked by a stone monument. Explore the Kozhikode spice market (one of Asia's oldest). Savor authentic Malabar Biryani and Kozhikodan halwa. Check into heritage hotel.

Drive to Muzhappilangad — India's longest drive-in beach (4 km of hard sand you can actually drive on). Continue to Kannur, famous for its Theyyam tradition. Visit St. Angelo Fort built by the Portuguese in 1505. Evening Theyyam ritual performance at a local kavil (shrine) — a rare opportunity to witness this living art form.

Drive to Bekal. Explore the magnificent Bekal Fort — a 17th century laterite fort jutting into the Arabian Sea with a unique keyhole-shaped entrance. Bekal Beach at the foot of the fort is one of Kerala's cleanest. Afternoon visit to Ananthapura Lake Temple — a crocodile shares the lake with the temple deity and is considered sacred.

Morning visit to Sri Madhukeshwara Temple at Madhur — a 10th century Shiva temple built in classic Kerala temple style above the Madhuvahini River. The unique architectural feature is the temple's setting above a naturally flowing stream. Explore local cashew nut factories for which Kasaragod is famous. Departure by afternoon.