Vattakottai Fort
Located around 7 km from the Kanyakumari Cape, this fort enjoys a water front location with greenery surrounding it on all sides.
Important Info
- Timing : 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Best time : After 4:00 pm
- Entry Fee : Rs.25
- Time Required : 30 mins to 1 hr
Vattakottai Fort (a.k.a) 'Circular Fort' is a coastal fort built in 18th century during the reign of Travancore Kingdom. This is one of the most popular sightseeing places in Kanyakumari. It is worth exploring this place on a Kanyakumari tour due to its magnificent architecture and historical importance.
It was constructed in the 18th century by the Venad kings of Travancore for the purpose of coastal defense. It was under supervision of Captain Eustachius De Lannoy, during the rule of Travancore King Marthanda Varma (1729- 1758) this fort was built. The previous structure of this fort was destroyed in the Tsunami of 2004. It was restored later on by the authorities of ASI.
In the centre of the fort, there is a small pond, presenting an ideal location to sit and enjoy the view with the family. It is also said that in earlier days one can clearly see Padmanabhapuram Palace from the top of Vattakottai Fort. There was also a secret path through a tunnel of around 4 feet wide, connecting Vattakottai Fort to Padmanabhapuram Palace. However, eventually the path was closed.
The view of vast spread of serene ocean on one side and the mystical Western Ghats on the other side is undoubtedly hypnotizing, making our visit to the fort worth remembering.
Travel Tips
- It takes around 15-20 mins by auto or cab from Kanyakumari cape.
- Also many buses are available from Kanyakumari to Vattakottai
- Best to visit in the morning or evening to avoid hot sun.
- Don't expect much rush here.
- Small parking area is available in the front.
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Detailed Information
Located over an area of about 3.5 acres, this rectangular granite fort is enclosed by 25-26 feet high walls. The front walls of the fort have a thickness of around 29 feet, while on the side thickness is around 18 feet and at the back it is 6 feet. This fort was the last seaside fort that was built by Travancore kingdom.
This was constructed under the supervision of Captain Eustachius De Lannoy, an ex-Dutch naval officer of the Dutch East India Company, who became commander of the Travancore Army (the very army that defeated him in the Battle of Colachel) in the 18th century, after he earned the trust of the Travancore King Marthanda Varma. De Lannoy reconstructed Vattakottai, as part of the defence-fortifications he undertook throughout Travancore.
Different weapons were discovered from the hidden cell in the fort and are now displayed in the museum of the city. Vattakottai Fort has been declared as protected site and come under the administration of Indian Archaeological Department.
We can also visit the black sand beaches which are located nearby, though its access is limited to the local people. We can have an awesome view of Cape Comerin from here.
