My Unforgettable Escape To Gateway Bekal, Which Was Actually A Gateway To Kerala's Soul

For many, the very name "Kerala" conjures images of a tropical paradise. Known as "God's Own Country," this southwestern state of India is a perennial favourite on every traveller's bucket list, and for good reason. With its serene backwaters, lush tea plantations, and pristine beaches, Kerala offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. We all yearn to go there, to escape the mundane and immerse ourselves in nature and to breathe in the air scented with spices. And this yearning took me to Bekal, a lesser-known city that surprised me with its bounty of offerings. My stay at Gateway Bekal made my trip even more memorable. 

My journey to Bekal began not with a flight, but with a sense of anticipation that grew with every mile of the two-hour drive from Mangalore airport to Kasaragod. As we snaked through the lush, green landscape, the urban hustle of everyday life melted away, replaced by the tranquillity of nature. Upon arrival at the Gateway Bekal, I was greeted with a warm, traditional welcome-a garland and a tikka on my forehead. 

My Stay At Gateway Bekal

My room was a traditional cottage, representing the region's classic architecture, yet it was a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. The cosy furnishings and thoughtful design made me feel right at home, but the real showstopper was the view. My balcony opened up to a vast, manicured lawn, a sea of green that stretched to meet the gorgeous backwaters. 

Traditional Feast for the Senses at Gateway Bekal

Dining at Gateway Bekal is a journey in itself. My first meal was a traditional Sadhya, a vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf at the Earth Pavilion. It was a sensory overload in the best way possible-dozens of dishes, each with its own unique flavour profile, from rich gravies to tangy pickles, all coming together in a harmonious culinary symphony. The flavours of Malabar cuisine were a constant delight, and I particularly enjoyed the special Moplah cuisine I savoured during an exclusive poolside dining experience. This traditional culinary style from North Kerala, with its unique and rich flavours, was the perfect way to cap off a day of exploration.

Embracing Nature and Adventure at Gateway Bekal

The resort's sprawling thirty acres are a playground for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The cottages lined up on a street give the feeling of living in a typical Kerala community. The swimming pool, kids' play area and other facilities make it a great place to stay with family and friends.

I spent an afternoon kayaking on the serene backwaters, the boat gliding effortlessly through the tranquil water, with nothing but the sounds of nature as my companion. It was a truly surreal experience.

After kayaking, I went for a walk along the backwater side trail, for breathtaking sunset views over the water. The gentle drizzle that began to fall and the winds that came with it added a magical touch. Back in my cottage, I enjoyed the rain from my balcony, and it was the best evening I had, cosying up on the couch with a cup of tea in my hand. 

The next day, I took a deeper dive into the local flora as I embarked on the Thonikadav Nature Trail, a guided walk that revealed the secrets of the forest. I learned about the cashew, rubber, and various fruit plantations, even getting a taste of a unique blue leaf tea brewed from the flowers we plucked along the way.

My journey on the water continued with the Bekal Ripples Houseboat Tour, a peaceful one-hour cruise. As the boat meandered through the tranquil backwaters, I sipped on chai and savoured some snacks, feeling a profound sense of calm. The serene views and the gentle lapping of the water against the boat were a welcome escape from the urban hustle.

Stepping Back in Time

No trip to Bekal is complete without a visit to the iconic Bekal Fort. Standing tall against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea, this historic seaside fort offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into a bygone era. 

Back at the resort, the evening was filled with cultural experiences that connected me to Kerala's soul. I participated in a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, a simple yet powerful ritual. Later, I watched a captivating Mohiniyattam performance, a graceful classical dance form performed by a skilled artist that beautifully showcased the state's rich heritage.

My visit to Gateway Bekal was a journey of discovery. From the traditional rituals and cultural performances to the tranquil backwaters and lush trails, every moment was an opportunity to connect with a slower, more authentic pace of life. I returned home with a refreshed spirit and a collection of memories that will last a lifetime, having truly experienced the warmth and beauty of Kerala.