Anchuthengu Fort

Anchuthengu Fort

Thiruvananthapuram, India

Rating: 8/10
Best time to visit: Morning days
Recommended time to spend: 2 hr
Activities to do:
  • Capture scenic photographs
  • Explore the fort ruins
  • Relax on the beach
  • Visit Anchuthengu lighthouse
Known for:
beachhistoryphotography
Description:

Anchuthengu Fort, also known as Anjengo Fort, is a historic fort located in Anchuthengu, a coastal village near Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. It stands as a testament to the colonial struggles between the British, Dutch, and Portuguese. The fort offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the remnants of the fort walls, bastions, and other structures, imagining the fort's vibrant past. The tranquil beach adjacent to the fort is ideal for relaxing strolls and enjoying the sunset. The nearby Anchuthengu lighthouse is another attraction worth visiting.

History:

Anchuthengu Fort was established by the English East India Company in 1696 after obtaining permission from the Queen of Attingal. It served as the first signaling station for ships arriving from England and played a significant role in the Anglo-Mysore Wars. The fort witnessed several battles and changed hands between the British, Dutch, and the local rulers. It was a crucial trading post for spices, especially pepper. The fort's strategic location made it a center of political and military activity during the colonial era. Today, it stands as a reminder of the complex history of the region.