Introduction

An important trading station of the British, Anjengo Fort is about 36 kilometers (22.5 miles) north of Trivandrum city and some 18 kilometers (11.25 miles) from Sivagiri Mutt in Varkala. This is a lovely seaside drive from the mutt and opens up innumerable photo opportunities. On a sightseeing excursion around Varkala, it is worth popping into this fort set up by the English East India Company as a strategic garrison in 1684. The structure was raised in 1695 as a signal station or lighthouse for ships coming in from England. Anjengo literally stands for ‘Anju Thengu’ meaning five coconut trees in Malayalam.

The fort protected East India Company’s powerful position in Kerala and played an intrinsic part in the British military strategy in the 17th and 18th centuries. Later the British during their rule in India used the fort as a trading station to carry on their trade and commerce. In fact, it was one of the major depots for coir and pepper trade. Take a closer look at the massive stone columns and high ceilings on which is inscribed the history of the place. In its heyday, Anjengo was one of the strongest bastions and an excellent example of English style of architecture. Ruined ramparts and a cemetery within is all that remains of the fort today. You can stroll up to this old-world cemetery and see the tombstones of the Englishmen and their families that once lived in the fort. The place has a damp and musty air, and evokes a sense of nostalgia.

The beachfront location of the fort only adds to its quaint atmosphere. Little wonder, picnicking folks from Trivandrum and Varkala like to drive down to Anjengo and spend time in the scenic surroundings. Explore the finely manicured gardens – it is a nice place to sit back, relax and reflect on your travels. You can even walk up to the serene backwater stretch; the avenue of coconut palms that crisscross the water channels is truly a sight to behold. There is a pretty little fishing hamlet adjoining the beach where you can find fishermen mending their nets or preparing to venture into the sea.

The Fort is now under the protection of National Heritage Monuments.

Special Attributes

The beachfront location of the fort makes it a great place to enjoy a quiet picnic.

Nuisance

The site is peaceful, and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

You can take an auto-rickshaw from Sivagiri Mutt to the fort or ask your hotel of stay to arrange for a taxi.

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers, Nature and History Lovers

Exposure

You will mostly be under the open sky. In the morning and evening, the weather remains pleasant. But noon gets quite warm and the sun rays are rather strong. You are advised to wear a lot of sunscreen lotion, carry along sunshades and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

The place has a lovely garden where you can sit back and relax, or proceed to the beach in front of the fort to soak up the sun.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Stay back to witness a breathtaking sunset over the sea.

Type of site

Fort ruins/bastion