A waterfront fort, Vattakottai Fort is constructed in the 18th century through the rule of Travancore kingdom. It is without a Doubt one of the popular travel places in Kanyakumari. Built for the purpose of coastal protection, this fort was the last seaside fort that was built by Travancore kingdom. It was under the guidance of Captain Eustachius De Lannoy, while the rule of Travancore King Marthanda Varma (1729- 1758) this fort was constructed.
Vattakottai Fort has been listed as a protected site and come under the jurisdiction of Indian archaeological department. It has been renovated and developed as a tourist fascination.
Its beautiful construction and historical significance are worth travelling when on a Kanyakumari tour. Another fascinating character that you will come across while your visit to this fort is the black sand shores which are found nearby.
The mesmerizing view of the fort is an added reason why you should prepare a visit to Vattakottai Fort. The scene of the vast range of clear ocean on one side and the majestic Western Ghats on the other side is unquestionably eye-catching, making your visit to the fort worth memorizing.
The architecture of Vattakottai Fort :
Against to the name, Vattakottai fort, which indicates circular fort; the shape of this is boxy shaped fort is spread over an area of about 3.5 acres of ground. The fort is enclosed by majestic walls of 25-26 feet elevation. The front walls of the fort have a width of around 29 feet, while on the side depth is around 18 feet and at the rear, it is 6 feet.
Vattakottai Fort, offering an impressive architecture, within its strong walls has observatories, weapon rooms, and many other sectors to explore and appreciate. It is built of granite stones. The walls of the fort are engraved with themes of fish. The fish subject was largely used by the Pandya Kingdom.
It is also said that in beginning days one can certainly see Padmanabhapuram Palace from the height of Vattakottai Fort. There was also a hidden path into a tunnel of around 4 feet broad, combining Vattakottai Fort to Padmanabhapuram Palace. But, finally, the path was blocked.
There is a small pond in the centre of the Fort, presenting an ideal location to sit and enjoy the view of the ocean in front. The raised parade ground of the fort is the best place to get a view of the surrounding area and the sea.
The fort opening timings of Vattakottai Fort are from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Reaching Vattakottai Fort from Kanyakumari:
Vattakottai Fort is about 7km away Kanyakumari. It resides in the Agasteeswaram Taluk. Visitors can hire a cab from Kanyakumari, and arrive the fort without any trouble. For those who want to commute by buses, there are also numerous buses that transport from Kanyakumari to Vattakottai.
Hotel temple citi is very near to this attraction since its a hotel in Kanyakumari near beach its just a 12 min drive from the hotel to this amazing fort. get your room today and see this wonder for yourself.
