Tucked away on the quiet coast of Anchuthengu, just 12 km from Varkala, stands a forgotten sentinel of Kerala’s colonial history — the Anjuthengu Fort. Built centuries ago by the British East India Company, this sea-facing fortress once echoed with the sound of cannons, trade ships, and imperial footsteps. Today, it offers a peaceful, offbeat escape for travelers who love history, architecture, and coastal charm.
🏛️ A Glimpse Into the Fort’s Colonial History
Built in 1696 by the British East India Company, Anjuthengu Fort was the first major British trading post in Kerala. Strategically located between sea and backwaters, it became a vital point for spice trade, military defense, and maritime control. The name Anjuthengu means “Five Coconut Palms” in Malayalam — referring to the landscape of tall palm groves that once surrounded the site.
The fort witnessed :
🇳🇱 Even interactions with Dutch, Portuguese, and local kingdoms
📦 Spice trade operations
⚔️ Skirmishes between local rulers and colonial forces
🚢 Ship-building for the British Navy
🏞️ What to See at Anjuthengu Fort
🔹 Fort Walls and Watchtowers : The rectangular structure features four corner bastions, used to mount cannons and keep watch over the Arabian Sea.
🔹 Sea Viewpoints : From the ramparts, you can catch spectacular views of the ocean on one side and serene backwaters on the other — a reminder of the fort’s strategic importance.
🔹 Old Cemetery & Church Nearby : Close to the fort lies an old British cemetery and a church, where early British officers were buried. The worn tombstones are full of stories etched in stone.
🔹 Anchuthengu Lighthouse : Just a short walk from the fort, the Anjengo Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the coast and village. Climb up for Instagram-worthy photos, especially at sunset.
🧭 How to Plan Your Visit
- Entry Fee: Free (may change in future)
- Timings: Usually open from 9 AM to 5 PM (confirm locally)
- Best Time to Visit: October to March (cool, dry months)
- Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours for the fort and nearby spots
- Nearby Attractions:
- Varkala Beach & Cliff
- Janardanaswamy Temple
- Backwater villages
- Mangrove Village Adventure Park (kayaking, camping, rope activities)
🚴 You can also rent a scooter or bike in Varkala and explore the fort, lighthouse, and backwaters in a half-day ride.