The 300-year-old Bekal Fort, shaped like a giant key-hole located in Kasaragod town, is one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Kerala. Surrounded by a beach, the historic Bekal Fort offers views of the Arabian Sea from its observation towers, where a few centuries ago huge cannons were placed. Today, the Bekal Fort and its surroundings – backwaters, hill destinations, water sport facilities – have also become shooting locale for film-makers. Built by the rulers of the ancient Kadampa dynasty, the fort has over the years witnessed ruling of the Kolathiri Rajas, the Vijayanagar Empire, Tipu Sultan and the British East India Company.