Also known as Kannur Fort and Kannur Kotta, St Angelo Fort is a historical fort located in the southern state of Kerala in India. Made entirely of the local laterite material, this fort is unique for its triangular shape that is surrounded by huge fortifications. Coupled with its idyllic location on the shores of the Arabian Sea, it makes for a magnificent sight. It was built in 1505 by Francisco de Almeida, a Portuguese leader, to house their naval supplies, but was captured by the Dutch, sold to Ali Raja of the Arakkal dynasty, and later captured by the British. Located in the Cannanore Cantonment area, the fort provides amazing views. Its proximity to the city centre of Kannur makes it an ideal day trip destination for locals and visitors alike. You can stroll through the fort premises exploring various areas like the ramparts, army barracks, cannons, entrance areas, chapel, etc. Though many areas of the fort are crumbling, the fort has undergone extensive restoration and is well-preserved as a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India. To make the most of your time here, come and take a look at our guide to St Angelo Fort, Kannur.
Things to do / Highlights
Take in the brilliant views
As a prominent historical place in Kannur, St. Angelo Fort is also a very popular tourist destination. People flock to this fort not just for the history but also for the brilliant views that can be had from here. Ideally located on the shores of the Arabian Sea, this fort offers panoramic views of the azure sea waters. You climb on top of the fort for unobstructed vistas hundreds of metres into the sea to as far as Dharmadam Island, another popular tourist destination. Closer to the fort, you can see the golden sands of Moppilla Beach and the clean blue waters of Mopilla Bay, which is a natural harbour and now a modern fishing area. The sunset views from the fort are said to be absolutely magnificent.
Stroll through the massive fort structure
Another thing to do at St. Angelo Fort is to take a relaxing stroll through the grounds of the fort. This triangle-shaped fort is steeped in history of conquest, battles, and martyrdom, with several local and foreign dynasties having laid seige to it over the ages. As you walk through the various areas of this 16th-century fort, soak in the history of the place and get a glimpse into the past of the area. Important spots to watch out for and explore further while wandering through the fort are a restored chapel, army barracks, cannons, staircases, watchtower, various ancient entrances, and archways, tombstones, etc. Visitors should also check out the first-ever lighthouse of Kannur that stands right next to the fort. You would also be surprised to know that just five years ago, thousands of cannonballs dating back many centuries were discovered here. Though many areas of the historic fort have been destroyed, it is still beautiful enough to admire.
Travelers tips
Time your visit
Since it is a very popular tourist destination in Kannur, visitors should time their visit to St. Angelo Fort in order to avoid crowds. Weekends and holidays can get crowded so it’s advisable to refrain from visiting at those times. Another thing to know about the fort is that it provides amazing sunset views so time your visit if you want to enjoy the sunset from here. But on the flip side, many locals love to catch sunset views too and the fort can get a little busy in the evenings. Mornings are also a great time to visit since the heat of the day is quite bearable at that time and the crowds are relatively less.
Watch your step inside the fort
Since the fort is quite old and destroyed in many areas, there may be loose stones, rocks and areas that may be dangerous. Be mindful of your steps and pay close attention to the ground, especially when you are standing on the edges of the fort, facing the shore. There are no handrails and barriers in certain areas of the fort so hold your child’s hand to prevent a fall or injury.
How to get there
Public transport
St. Angelo Fort is easily accessible by public transport. Kannur Railway Station is just 3 kilometres (1.86 miles) away. Kannur Bus Stand is just a short walk away, from where you can take any of the several buses that ply around the city, and will take you to the fort for a very nominal price.
Taxi or auto rickshaw
You can take an auto rickshaw or a taxi from any part of Kannur city to St. Angelo Fort. Since it is a popular tourist destination, any auto rickshaw or taxi driver will easily take you there and back.
Private vehicle
You can reach St. Angelo Fort quite conveniently by your own car, two-wheeler, or a rental vehicle. Since it is located in the Cannanore Cantonment area, driving directions to the fort are easily available.
Parking information
Paid parking facility is available quite closeby to the fort. Ample parking spaces are available for cars as well as two-wheelers.
St. Angelo Fort Information
St. Angelo Fort
Address: Near Cannannore Cantonment, Burnacherry, Kannur, Kerala 670017, India
Department of tourism: Visit Kerala
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free entry
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
A Guide To Hawa Mahal, Jaipur - Updated 2024Priyanjali -
Create an account to