Kasaragod tourist places to visit and things to do

Kasaragod, also spelt Kasargod, is a unique vacation destination in Kerala. This tourist destination, hidden away in the Western Ghats, provides visitors with rich historical, aesthetically beautiful natural, cultural, and folkloric experiences. 

You may get a sense of Kasaragod’s contemporary character through the welcoming residents, gorgeous mosques, churches, and temples. 

On either side, Kasaragod tourist places comprise serene Arabian Sea beaches, Kerala’s backwaters, powerful forts, secret locations within the Western Ghats, and a wildlife sanctuary that gently welcomes tourists.

How to reach Kasaragod?

By air

The Mangalore Airport is 50 kms away from the main city. You can take a taxi/auto/bus to reach the main city.

By train

You can board a train to Kasaragod Railway Junction from any major city.

By road

The district of Kasaragod is traversed by NH17. Since it joins the district near Kalikadavu, one may easily access the area from the Kannur side.

15 best Kasaragod tourist places

This list (with images) will guide you in shortlisting Kasaragod tourist places.

• Ananthapura Lake Temple

Source: Pinterest

The Ananthapura Lake Temple is a tranquil Hindu temple situated in the village of Ananthapura, Kasaragod. It is erected in the centre of a lake. It is Ananthapadmanabhan Swami’s sacred temple. 

Ananthapadmanabhan is thought to have made his home here first before travelling to Thiruvananthapuram via a cave that is located in the lake’s right-hand corner. According to legend, the cave is a natural formation that divides the cities of Ananthapura and Thiruvananthapuram; as a result, both temples continue to honour the same deity.

The existence of a crocodile in the Ananthapura Lake Temple proves that nature truly does coexist in perfect harmony with itself, despite people visiting the temple to make offerings.

To feel complete harmony, one must visit this shrine.

Distance: 13km

Timings: 05:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 05:00 to 7:00 PM

Best Time to visit: April to October

How to Reach: No direct buses are available, so either you reach the Kumbala Bus stand and take the bus from there, or you can drive yourself or hire a vehicle.

 

• Parappa Wildlife Sanctuary

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The tranquillity and beauty of nature are abundant in Kasaragod. One such location that provides both is the Parappa Wildlife Sanctuary. Numerous animal species, including turtles, porcupines, pigs, Malabar Hornbills, slender lorises, and jungle cats, can live there naturally.

This refuge is a haven for those who enjoy the outdoors because of its abundance of medicinal plants and thick canopy of evergreen forest.

Distance: 43.2 km

Timings: 09:00 AM to 05:30 PM

Best Time to visit: April to October

How to Reach: Bus/Cab Auto

 

• Ranipuram

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The Ranipuram hiking track in Kerala’s mild hills is well-known. This location, which is located at the height of around 750 metres above sea level, includes dense forest flora and beautiful green pastures. Within the Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary of Karnataka, which joins with Ranipuram Wildlife Sanctuary, the entire area is proposed.

This area is equally as breathtakingly beautiful as Ooty and is a must-see for all nature lovers. A wonderful combination of joy and happiness is created by the simple way of living in the village and the kind nature. 

Ranipuram’s entire walk path is beautiful and a pleasure for landscape photographers. It takes roughly 2½ kilometres to visit the peak cave and getting there is quite the adventure.

Distance: 54.8 km

Places to Visit: Talakaveri temple, Chandragiri Fort, and many more

Best Time to visit: November to March

How to Reach: Bus/Cab Auto

 

• Cheruvathur

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In Kerala’s Kasaragod district, Cheruvathur is a cosy little town around 10 kilometres south of the larger town of Nileshwaram. The area is well-known for being the birthplace of the famous Keralan poet Mahakavi Kuttamath of the nineteenth century. 

In Cheruvathur, his work on musical dramas and poetry collections is a great source of creative inspiration. In light of this, the town’s name was officially changed to Kuttamath Nagar by the government.

The picturesque vistas and lush surroundings of Cheruvathur are the keys draws for travellers. For the same reason, Cheruvathur and its environs are popular picnic locations. During the busy seasons, locals come here for outings and to spend the day away from the noise and bustle of the city.

Distance: 46.7 km

Places to Visit: Veeramala Kunu, Azhithala Beach, and many more

Best Time to visit: August to March

How to Reach: Bus/Cab Auto and Line 16511 train goes towards Cheruvathur

 

 

• Nileshwar

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Nileshwaram is known as the land of Lord Shiva, according to the name. Sage Neela, who ascended Lord Shiva’s idol centuries ago, is another legend connected to the place’s name. 

The Nileshwar Rajas of the Kolathiri line previously had their residence in Nileshwaram, which was also connected to their conflict with the Bednore Nayaks at the time.

The town is particularly well-known for holding a large number of historical temples that are very meaningful and noteworthy. Nileshwar is the ideal location for anybody who wants to experience Kerala’s rich culture and customs, as well as see some ancient architectural marvels with their loved ones.

Distance: 41.8 km

Places to Visit: Thaikadappuram Beach, Shree Muthappan Madappura Nileshwar and many more

Best Time to visit: June to September

How to Reach: Bus/Cab/Auto/ rain

 

• Mallikarjuna Temple

Source: Pinterest

One of the town’s oldest temples is Mallikarjuna Temple, situated in the centre of Kasaragod. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Mallikarjuna and is well-known for its captivating musical theatre and festival Yakshagana.

Every year, the event lasts for five days in March or April. The most anticipated event, Yakshagana, takes place on the concluding day of several cultural activities held in the courtyard. All festival attendees get Payasam as a gift after the celebration.

Distance: 230 m 

Timings: 4:30 AM to 10:00 PM

Best Time to visit: October to February

How to Reach: Walk/Stroll

• Anandashram and Nityanandasramam

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These two ashrams are the best option for individuals who want to immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the environment and meditate in solitude to obtain tranquillity.

Swami Ramadas founded the Anandashram Ashram in 1939, which is close to the Kanhangad Railway Station. The ashram is surrounded by dense trees, which are home to a variety of interesting constructions. 

An excellent location for meditation is on the hill on the ashram’s east side. The other well-known ashram founded by Swami Nithyananda is the Nityanandasramam. 

The ashram is made up of 45 caverns that were carved out of a mountainside. The beautiful idol of Swami Nityananda fashioned out of panchaloha is the temple’s most eye-catching feature.

Distance: 30.1 km

Timings: 5:00 AM to 10:30 PM

Best Time to visit: November to March especially early morning

How to Reach: Bus/Cab/Auto or one can take a bus to Kanhagad then auto to reach the place

 

• Malom Wildlife Sanctuary

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Malom Species Sanctuary, a well-known tourist destination in the Kanhangad area, is home to a wide diversity of wildlife and a lush tropical green forest.

Numerous creatures and birds, such as peacocks, the Malabar hornbill, wild pigs, flying squirrels, rhesus monkeys, and porcupines, among others, may be found in the sanctuary. Additionally, if you’re lucky, you could witness a king cobra and a Python.

Distance: 47.4 km

Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry Fee: None

Best Time to visit: October to March

How to Reach: Bus/Cab/Auto or one can take a bus to Kanhagad then auto to reach the place

• Valiyaparamba

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The fishing town of Valiyaparamba is located on an island bordered by the Arabian Sea and isolated from the mainland by backwaters. One of Kerala’s most beautiful backwater towns is the Valiyaparamba backwaters, located around 30 kilometres from Bekal. The island on the River Tejaswini is renowned for its breathtaking scenery.

A tour of the island’s coconut orchards by boat in a traditional kettuvallam (houseboat) offers a comprehensive perspective.

Because it is a fishing hub, the varied fishing sceneries contribute to its allure. Travellers have a wider range of options thanks to the crisp breeze, coconut lagoons, a variety of marine birds, and activities like husking, among others. The Island is renowned for its mussel cultivation as well.

Distance: 54.3 km

Cost: Ferry – Rs 15; Rs 2K for Houseboat (1hr); Prices vary for overnight stay

Best Time to visit: October to March 

How to Reach: Bus/Cab/Auto

• Nellikunnu Mosque

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Nellikunnu Mosque, located close to Kasaragod town and housing the grave of Thangal Uppappa, is most renowned for its Uroos. It’s also said that the name Uroos is taken from there.

The legendary festivities of a weeklong Nercha festival will be on display if you visit the area in November. On the last day of the Uroos, which is in November, a huge feast is organised.

Distance: 45 km from the town centre

Best Time to visit: October to March

How to Reach: Bus/Cab/Auto

 

• Bekal Fort

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Bekal Fort maintains its position as the most distinctive and desirable Kasaragod tourist place. This 300-year-old mansion stands at the huge Arabian Sea banks and portrays a narrative of perseverance, resistance, and strength. 

Built by the Shivappa Nayaka of Keladi in 1650 AD, it is the biggest Fort in Kerala. Tourists who want to experience the charm of the past should visit this location.

Distance: 19 km 

Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Entry Fee: INR 15

Best Time to visit: October to March 

How to Reach: Bus/Cab/Auto/ Drive

 

• Kareem’s Forest Park

 

Source: Pinterest

Kareem Forest Park is situated in Kerala State, India’s Kasaragod district, about 23 kilometres to the east of Kanhangad Town.

With a large range of flowers and greenery present everywhere, it appears to be quite vibrant. Even while this lush refuge is well-liked among tourists as a place for picnics, the hospitable environment offers wonderful views of unspoiled nature.

Highly regarded for its several accomplishments in forest protection, it may also be found close to Parappa in Nileshwar on the path that passes by these lovely locations.

Kareem’s Forest is home to a wide range of trees, bushes, birds, animals, and unique medicinal plants. A must-visit location for relaxation and a wonderful experience to decompress.

Distance: 47 km 

Best Time to visit: October to March 

How to Reach: Bus/Cab/Auto/ Drive

• Manjeshwar

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Manjeshwar is well-known for its cashew nuts and as a place of pilgrimage. It is situated in God’s Own Country, Kerala, India’s northernmost district, Kasaragod. Manjeshwar, which presently comprises roughly 15 mosques and various temples, has a long history of embracing variety while maintaining harmony.

The settlement is located near Bengra Manjeshwar, where there are two historic Jain Bastis, on the southern bank of the Manjeswaram River. The fishing community of Manjeshwar is called Bengra Manjeshwar. 

A memorial to Sri Govind Pai, a distinguished poet of the Kannada language, is also located at Manjeshwar. One of the beaches that visitors commonly visit is Kanwatheertha Beach. This beach was created when the sea accumulated in what seems to be a swimming pool-like structure.

Distance: 29.3 km 

Places to Visit: Batapady Beach, Srimath Anantheshwara Temple, and many more

Best Time to visit: October to March 

How to Reach: Bus/Cab/Auto/ Drive/Train

• Maipady Palace

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On the Kasaragod-Perla Road, a renowned tourist destination known as Maipady Palace is an old palace built by Kumbala monarchs that is about 8 kilometres from Kasaragod town. Tourists frequently visit the nearby Madhur Village, a renowned tourist site.

Distance: 8.8 km 

Best Time to visit: October to March 

How to Reach: Bus/Cab/Auto/ Drive

• Malla Temple

Source: Pinterest

The Malla Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple is another name for the Malla Temple. Fantastic temple with a unique devotion to the Durgaparameswari goddess.

Due to the large parking space and regular buses, tourists can get to this location with ease and draw to this temple with beautiful artwork. A good location that should be officially preserved.

The temple offers both a lunch and dinner service. The food is completely free, although you are required to clear your dishes after each meal.

Hoovina Pooja, which is a special Pooja, would be the final of three daily Poojas performed at night after Satyanarayana Pooja. The district of Kasaragod’s greatest and most divine location.

Distance: 15.1 km 

Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:45 PM and 06:00 PM to 08:15 PM

Best Time to visit: October to March 

How to Reach: Bus/Cab/Auto/ Drive

FAQs

What is special in Kasaragod?

Kasaragod is famous for its handlooms and its coastline stretching 293 kms.

How many beaches are there in Kasaragod?

Kasaragod has 3 beaches: Lighthouse, Hawa, and Samudra beach.

What is the best season to visit Kasaragod?

Kasaragod experiences winter in January and February. The weather is quite pleasant during these months and are the best months to visit Kasaragod.