Anjengo fort is located in Anchuthengu, Kerala. It is a very old fort that was built by the British East India Company in the late 17th century. The fort played a major role for the trade and as a strategic defense point. It’s name was derived from “Anchuthengu” which mans “five coconut trees” in Malayalam which reflects that the area is full of greenery everywhere. The fort has sturdy walls and the old canons tell stories of the battle and trade that happened centuries ago here.
You can do many interesting things inside the fort like exploring the remains and enjoying lovely panoramic views of the Arabian sea. Just nearby to the fort there is a cemetery which contains graves of British soldiers which make the fort more interesting. According to me, it is a perfect place for people who love to explore historical places and love beautiful scenery. Anjengo fort is open to the public and can be easily reached from Thiruvananthapura which make it a great place for a family day trip.
Fort’s overview
- State: Kerala
- Major attractions and specialties: Backwaters, beaches, hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, Ayurveda, tea and spice plantations, traditional art forms, and festivals.
- Best time to visit: From September to March because of pleasant weather.
- Worth Visiting: Absolutely, Yes
- Facts:
- Built by the British East India Company in 1696.
- Served as a trading post and defense point.
- Played a key role during the Anglo-Mysore Wars.
Table of Contents
History of Anjengo Fort, Kerala
Anjengo Fort is located in Kerala and it was built by the British East India Company in 1696. The fort was build very close to the Arabian Sea so the Britishers could guard all important trade routes and control their trading activities easily. The interesting thing is that it was the first British trading post on the Malabar Coast. The fort had played an important role in the Anglo-Mysore wars and it served as a military base and a defense point against local rulers and rival European powers.
The construction of Anjeno fort was the first step of the Britishers for gaining all major controls in Kerala. Over the period of time, the fort became an important place for trading of spices especially pepper which was very popular in Europe. After entering into the fort you’ll see the actual places where soldiers stayed and offices where all work was managed. The strong walls and old canons ads a unique touch of history into it. Over the period of time, the fort attracts visitors who are interested in knowing the interesting history of Kerala.
Anjengo Fort visual appearance and unique things
Anjengo fort look simple but it has a very strong appearance. It has thick square shaped walls which give it a solid and sturdy look. Inside the fort majority of its remains are mostly covered with grass. It is located very near to the Arabian sea which create a beautiful scenery there especially at sunset. The thing that make the fort unique is its great historical importance. It was the first British trading post on Kerala’s coast.
The fort also has very old cannons that were once used for defense. Another thing that make it special is the cemetery which is located very near to the fort where British soldiers and officers were buried long ago. You can do many exciting things here like exploring the remains of the fort and enjoying cool air coming from the sea. The peaceful surroundings make it a unique and interesting place to explore in Kerala.
Interesting things to do in / Major attractions of Anjengo Fort
1. Explore the walls of the fort: Explore the sturdy walls of the fort that will make you feel its historic importance. These thick walls was built in the 17th century and shows the simple yet strong architectural style of that time. Walking here will make you imagine how the fort once guarded the area. The best thing about these walls is that they also offer lovely views of the surrounding landscape which enhances the visiting experience.
2. Visit the Old Cemetery: It is a must to visit the old cemetery which is located very near to the fort. The cemetery is the place where British soldiers and officers were buried long ago. Walking along the cemetery will let you feel about its ancient history. Its peaceful atmosphere and historical importance make it a unique place to visit during your visit to the Anjengo fort.
3. Enjoy Panoramic Sea Views: Enjoying the panoramic sea views is amongst the best things to do in Anjengo Fort. It is a completely different experience to enjoy the beautiful sea views from the fort. You can see the huge endless ocean starting in front of you. The view look more amazing during the sunset when the colors are stunning. It is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the views of the lovely scenery which make your visit to the fort even more enjoyable.
4. Capture Photographs: It is a must to capture some great photographs of the fort. Take photos of the fort’s old walls, cannons, and lovely views. The fort’s historical features and lovely surrounding beauty make it a perfect place for capturing great pictures. Capture the unique details and stunning sea views that will keep remind you of your exploration.
5. Learn About the Spice Trade: It is great to learn about the spice trade as the fort was a ley trading post in the past. The fort played a very important role in shipping spices like pepper and cardamom to Europe. Just imagine the busy activities that once happened here. Definitely, learning about the spice trade is amongst the best things to do in Anjengo fort.
6. Relax in the Open Courtyard: You can relax in the open courtyard of the fort. Just sit on the grass and enjoy in the calm and peaceful surroundings. The big area is a perfect place to take a break and refuel your energy after exploring the fort. It is a lovely place to create some good memories with your loved ones.
7. Visit Nearby Anchuthengu Beach: Visitors often feel that the exploration of the Anjengo fort is incomplete without visiting the Anchutengu beach. It is a perfect place to relax and spend some good time with family and friends. Enjoy a walk around the shore and feel the cool air coming from sea. The beach has many beautiful spots which add a touch of natural beauty to your visit.
8. Observe the Old Cannons: You can observe the old cannons at the fort. The old cannons were once used to defend the fort. You can see their sturdy appearance and imagine how they helped to protect the area in the past. These interesting canons ads a special touch of history to your visit.
9. Know about its history: The fort holds a great historical importance into it. It was build during the year 1696. It was built by the British East India Company and it was once a key trading post. Gain more knowledge of how it helped helped the region’s history and was important for the spice trade.
10. Enjoy a Picnic: You can enjoy picnic in its grassy courtyard. Just bring some food and spread it on a blanket to create some good memories with your family or friends. It’s historical walls and lovely views even make the experience unique and interesting. It is a perfect spot to eat and chat with your loved once.
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Best hotels near Anjengo Fort
Here are some of the best hotels near Anjengo Fort including their location, distance, tariff, and facilities:
The Gateway Hotel Varkala
- Location: Varkala, Kerala
- Distance: About 12 km from Anjengo Fort
- Tariff: Approx. ₹7,000 – ₹9,000 per night
- Facilities: Beachfront location, swimming pool, spa, restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and fitness center.
Puthooram Beach Resort
- Location: Varkala, Kerala
- Distance: About 10 km from Anjengo Fort
- Tariff: Approx. ₹3,500 – ₹5,000 per night
- Facilities: Beach access, garden, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Kshetra Beach Resort
- Location: Varkala, Kerala
- Distance: About 11 km from Anjengo Fort
- Tariff: Approx. ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 per nigh
- Facilities: Beachfront, garden, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Krishnatheeram Ayur Holy Beach Resort
- Location: Varkala, Kerala
- Distance: About 12 km from Anjengo Fort
- Tariff: Approx. ₹4,500 – ₹7,000 per night
- Facilities: Ayurvedic treatments, beach access, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hindustan Beach Retreat
- Location: Varkala, Kerala
- Distance: About 11 km from Anjengo Fort
- Tariff: Approx. ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 per night
- Facilities: Beachfront, restaurant, garden, and free Wi-Fi.
Suggested read : Top 12 Most Beautiful Varkala Tourist Places
Know more interesting things about Anjengo Fort
How to reach Anjengo Fort, Kerala
By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport which is about 40 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the fort.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Varkala which is around 12 km from Anjengo Fort. You can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi from the station to the fort.
By Road: Anjengo Fort is well-connected by road. You can take a bus or drive from nearby towns like Varkala (12 km) or Trivandrum (40 km). Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available.
Anjengo Fort opening and closing hours
| Days | Timings |
| Monday – Sunday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Anjengo Fort entry fee
Entry to Anjengo Fort is totally free, visitors don’t have to pay anything to enter into the fort. Moreover, if a person is claiming to be the ticket person just don’t pay anything to him.
What makes Anjengo Fort different from other tourist attractions?
Anjengo Fort stands out from other tourist attractions because of its historical importance and unique appearance. The fort was built by the British East India Company in 1696 and it was the first British trading post on Kerala’s coast. The main thing which clearly set it apart is his stunning sea views. There are many interesting things you can do here like explore its sturdy stone walls, see old cannons and visit the nearby cemetery with graves of British soldier. The fort has a peaceful environment which make it a perfect place to visit with family. Definitely, Anjengo fort is a must to visit destination.
Tips for visiting Anjengo Fort
- Stay hydrated and carry a water bottle along with you especially if you’re visiting during warmer months.
- According to me you should visit the fort between September to March to enjoy a pleasant weather.
- The fort is best to explore by walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
- You should carry cash as many small shops and local restaurants prefer cash.
- Don’t miss out on the fresh seafood and local dishes.
- Start your day early to avoid crowds at popular spots.
- Some attractions may close early, so plan your visits accordingly.
- Plan your visit early in the day to avoid crowds and heat.
Who should visit Anjengo Fort?
- According to me, people who are busy in their hectic day-to-day lives and who want to spend a day in a peaceful and relaxing place can visit the fort.
- Those who are interested in history and interesting architecture.
- Photographs as they can capture some great shots of the scenery.
- Perfect for those looking for a peaceful and interesting destination.
- Solo travelers and couples as it is a great place for exploration and spend good time.
Suggested read : Most beautiful 16 places to visit in Thekkady
Best time to visit Anjengo Fort
According to me, the best time to visit Anjengo fort is from September to March. These months are best to visit here because of the pleasant and dry weather which make it perfect for exploring the fort and enjoying the lovely sea views. The temperatures are also very comfortable. It is advisable to avoid the heavy monsoon rains. Visiting the fort during these months will surely enhance your visiting experience.
Is it worth visiting Anjengo Fort?
Yes, visiting Anjengo fort is definitely worth it. Visiting the fort is completely unique experience because of its historical importance and natural beauty. You can make a lot of special memories here by seeing the ancient cannons and learn about its important roles in the spice trade. It is a must to visit the nearby cemetery to make your exploration complete. You can also enjoy lovely views of the Arabian sea which make it a peaceful place to relax and create some good memories with family or friends. I must say, it is a perfect place for history and nature lovers.
Nearby tourist attractions from Anjengo Fort
Here are some nearby tourist attractions from Anjengo Fort and their approximate distances:
1. Varkala Beach
- Distance: About 12 km
- Highlight: A beautiful beach known for its cliffs and stunning sunsets.
2. Papanasam Beach
- Distance: About 13 km
- Highlight: A serene beach with a holy bathing area and lovely views.
3. Sivagiri Mutt
- Distance: About 14 km
- Highlight: A prominent pilgrimage center and the resting place of Sree Narayana Guru.
4. Janardhanaswamy Temple
- Distance: About 12 km
- Highlight: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located near Varkala Beach.
5. Kappil Beach
- Distance: About 15 km
- Highlight: A tranquil beach with a scenic backwater lagoon and lush surroundings.
Anjengo fort images/ photographs
Conclusion
Overall, Anjengo fort is a lovely place to visit as it holds a great historical importance and offers lovely views of the Arabian sea. It was built by the British in 1696 and has a very interesting past as it was the important trading post. There are many interesting things to do here like exploring its strong walls and seeing the old cannons. You can enjoy lovely panoramic views of the Arabian sea from the fort and this view looks fantastic especially during sunset. You should consider the months from September to March for visiting here. If you love history and see views then Anjengo fort is definitely worth a visit.
What is Anjengo Fort famous for?
Anjengo Fort is famous for being the first British trading post on the Malabar Coast, built by the British East India Company in 1696. It played a key role in trade and defense during the colonial period.
What can I see at Anjengo Fort?
At Anjengo Fort, you can see the well-preserved stone walls, old cannons, and the nearby cemetery with British graves. The fort also offers beautiful views of the Arabian Sea.
How far is Anjengo Fort from Varkala Beach?
Anjengo Fort is about 12 km from Varkala Beach.
Are there guided tours available at Anjengo Fort?
Guided tours may be available through local tourism operators or guides. It’s best to check in advance if you want a detailed tour.
Is Anjengo Fort accessible by public transport?
Yes, Anjengo Fort is accessible by public transport. Buses and taxis from nearby towns like Varkala can take you to the fort.
Can I take photographs at Anjengo Fort?
Yes, you can take photographs at Anjengo Fort. It’s a great place for capturing historical and lovely views.
Know more about Anjengo Fort.