The Vattakottai Fort is a historic monument located in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu. It is a seaside fort constructed in the 18th century during the reign of the Travancore Kingdom. The fort is made of granite stone and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea on one side and the Western Ghats on the other. The name "Vattakottai" translates to circular fort in Tamil, referring to the circular shape of the fort.
The Vattakottai Fort is open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on all days of the week.
There is no entry fee to visit the Vattakottai Fort.
It takes about 1-2 hours to explore the fort and its surroundings. Visitors are advised not to carry plastic items and to dispose of any waste responsibly to maintain the cleanliness of the fort.
The architecture of the Vattakottai Fort showcases a blend of traditional Indian and European styles. The fort has bastions at regular intervals and a moat surrounding it. The circular structure of the fort is unique and offers a panoramic view of the coast.
The best time to visit the Vattakottai Fort is during the winter months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the fort and enjoying the surrounding views.
The Vattakottai Fort is located about 6 km from Kanyakumari town and is easily accessible by road. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the fort. The nearest railway station is in Kanyakumari, and the nearest airport is in Trivandrum, approximately 90 km away.
The Vattakottai Fort was built by the Travancore kingdom in the 18th century as a defensive structure to protect the kingdom from invasions. The fort was constructed using granite stones and was strategically located to have a clear view of the sea and the surrounding areas.
Inside the Vattakottai Fort, visitors can explore the ruins of the old barracks, storage rooms, and watchtowers. The fort offers breathtaking views of the sea and the hills, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
Visitors are advised to wear comfortable footwear as there is some walking involved to reach the fort. It is recommended to carry drinking water and snacks as there are limited facilities available near the fort. Also, do not forget to carry a camera to capture the scenic beauty of the fort and its surroundings.
There are several hotels and resorts near the Vattakottai Fort where visitors can stay and enjoy a comfortable stay. Some of the hotels near the fort include Hotel Sea View, Hotel Temple Citi, and Hotel Saaral.
Some of the nearby tourist spots of Vattakottai Fort include the Kanyakumari Beach, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, and Suchindram Temple. Visitors can explore these attractions while visiting the fort and make the most of their trip to Kanyakumari.