In ancient times, Kasargod was an important trade centre and was known to Arabs by the name Harkwillia. Lying at the tip of north Malabar, the serene landscape of Kasargod is characterised by coconut palms, rolling hills, forts, beaches and backwaters. The small town of Neeleshwar is the cultural capital of Kasargod and is famous for its folk arts, temple festivals, old markets and weavers. Kasargod is a perfect base for which to visit Bekal and Chandragiri Fort.