About Vattakottai Fort
The Vattakottai Fort is about 6 km northeast of Kanyakumari city. The Vattakottai Fort Kanyakumari was built in the 18th century and was the last of the coastal forts to be built by the Travancore kings. The height of the Vattakottai Fort walls is about 25 feet and the thickness of the front side is 29 feet. The fort was built by De Lenoy, a Dutch naval officer and a trusted General of Travancore King, Marthanda Varma. The fort is made of stones and has all the amenities for the royal family. This fort in all essence is the main attraction of the region as it is situated on the wonderful coast in the Bay of Bengal.
Vattakottai Fort is considered among the major tourist attractions of the city of Kanyakumari. Vattakottai Fort or the circular fort is located in Agasteeswaram taluk. Vattakottai Fort Kanyakumari was constructed in the 18th century. The fort built by the kings of Travancore is an old structure. It was constructed as a defense measure for Nanjil Nadu during the rule of Marthanda Varma.
Vattakottai Fort is entirely built of stone, consisting of restrooms, watchtowers and armor rooms. There are carvings on the walls of the fort, consisting of the fish theme. This theme is the symbol of Pandavas. According to archaeologists, it was the Pandavas that were once controlling the Vattakottai Fort of Kanyakumari.
Majestic Surroundings of the Vattakottai Fort
From the high parade ground located on top of the Vattakottai Fort Kanyakumari, you can see the view of the sea. From one side of the parade ground the rough waters of the Bay of Bengal are seen and from the other side the calm waters of the Arabian Sea are is seen. Nonetheless, the fort is quite well known for its architecture and aesthetics, the main purpose of constructing this fort was entirely for protection. The important history of the huge fortress along with its perfect picturesque locality has made it one of the most sought after tourist destinations. The panoramic view of the Bay of Bengal Sea decorated with the imposing hills of the Western Ghats, the bright blue skies filled with cotton clouds and plains of beaches with glistening black sand makes this fascinating place.
How to reach Vattakottai Fort
Vattakottai Fort has situated 6 km the city and the nearest airport from Kanyakumari is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport which is well-connected with the major cities of India as well as from the various international destinations. Kanyakumari has its own railway station from where one can easily get a taxi or bus for the fort.
Best time to visit Vattakottai Fort
The best time to visit Vattakottai Fort is from October to February. The climatic conditions remain calm and favorable for the outing and sightseeing.
Places to visit near Vattakottai Fort
In the early days, one could see the Padmanabhapuram Palace clearly from the top of the Vattakottai Fort. There was also a tunnel which ran from Vattakottai Fort to the Padmanabhapuram Palace, it was about 25 km in distance and a width of 1.2 meters. The tunnel was used as a secret passage. As time passed the tunnel was eventually closed. Other famous places to visit near Vattakottai Fort are Thirparappu Falls, Kumari Amman Temple, Victoria Rock Memorial, etc.
Vattakottai Fort Timings: 8:00 A.M to 5:00 P.M.
Vattakottai Fort Entry Fees: Nil
