Top Forts in Kerala
Top 10 most searched, well-known, and historically rich forts in Kerala
- Bekal Fort, Kasaragod
- St. Angelo Fort (Kannur Fort), Kannur
- Palakkad Fort (Tipu’s Fort), Palakkad
- Thalassery Fort, Kannur
- Anchuthengu Fort (Anjengo Fort), Thiruvananthapuram
- Bekal Chandragiri Fort, Kasaragod
- Pallipuram Fort, Kochi
- Cranganore Fort (Kodungallur Fort), Thrissur
- Bekal Hosdurg Fort, Kasaragod
- Vypin Fort (Palliport Fort), Kochi
Outstanding Forts in Kerala
Kerala’s forts are not just relics of war, they are markers of global history. Built by Portuguese, Dutch, and British powers, these structures reflect Kerala’s role in international trade and colonial politics. Unlike the massive hill forts of North India, Kerala’s forts are mostly coastal, designed to protect ports, spices, and trade routes.
Today, many of these forts stand as heritage landmarks and tourist attractions, offering a mix of history, architecture, and scenic views.
This guide covers the most searched, well-known, and culturally significant forts in Kerala.
1. Bekal Fort, Kasaragod
Bekal Fort is the largest and most iconic fort in Kerala, located along the Arabian Sea in Kasaragod district. Built in the 17th century by Shivappa Nayaka of the Keladi dynasty, it stands as a powerful symbol of coastal defence.
Spread across nearly 40 acres, the fort is known for its massive laterite walls, strategic design, and commanding sea views. Its key highlight is the observation tower, which once served as a watchpoint for enemy ships.
Unlike many forts, Bekal is well preserved and maintained, making it one of the most visited tourist attractions in Kerala. The fort also gained cinematic fame through several Indian films.
Today, it offers walking paths, landscaped gardens, and a scenic beach nearby, blending history with leisure.
Bekal Fort is not just a historical structure. It is Kerala’s most photogenic and tourist-friendly fort.
2. St. Angelo Fort (Kannur Fort), Kannur
St. Angelo Fort, also known as Kannur Fort, is one of the oldest European-built forts in Kerala. Constructed by the Portuguese in 1505, it later came under Dutch and British control.
The fort is known for its triangular layout, thick laterite walls, and strong bastions facing the Arabian Sea. Cannons still remain on the walls, giving a glimpse into its military past.
What makes St. Angelo Fort special is its layered history. It reflects multiple colonial influences, each leaving its mark on the structure.
Today, it is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India and attracts history lovers and tourists alike.
The fort’s location offers stunning sea views, making it a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.
3. Palakkad Fort (Tipu’s Fort), Palakkad
Palakkad Fort, also known as Tipu’s Fort, is one of the best-preserved inland forts in Kerala. Built in the 18th century by Hyder Ali, it later came under the control of Tipu Sultan.
Unlike coastal forts, Palakkad Fort is surrounded by a wide moat and lush greenery, giving it a unique visual appeal.
The fort played a crucial role in military campaigns between Mysore rulers and the British.
Today, it has been converted into a public park, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists.
Its combination of history, open spaces, and accessibility makes it one of the most visited forts in Kerala.
4. Thalassery Fort, Kannur
Thalassery Fort, built by the British East India Company in 1708, is one of Kerala’s most historically important colonial forts.
Located in Kannur, it was used as a trading post and military base.
The fort is known for its strong stone walls, secret tunnels, and strategic coastal position.
Today, it stands as a reminder of British influence in Kerala’s trade history.
5. Anchuthengu Fort (Anjengo Fort), Thiruvananthapuram
Anchuthengu Fort, also known as Anjengo Fort, was the first trading post of the British East India Company in Kerala.
Built in the 17th century, it played a key role in colonial trade and politics.
The fort complex includes a lighthouse and an old cemetery, adding to its historical significance.
6. Bekal Chandragiri Fort, Kasaragod
Chandragiri Fort, located near Bekal, offers panoramic views of the river and sea.
Built in the 17th century, it served as a strategic military outpost.
Today, it is known for its scenic beauty rather than its structure.
7. Pallipuram Fort, Kochi
Pallipuram Fort is one of the oldest European forts in India, built by the Portuguese in 1503.
Its unique hexagonal shape makes it architecturally distinct.
Though small, it holds significant historical value.
8. Cranganore Fort (Kodungallur Fort), Thrissur
Cranganore Fort, also known as Kodungallur Fort, was built by the Portuguese and later modified by the Dutch.
It played a major role in protecting trade routes.
Today, it remains in ruins but still attracts history enthusiasts.
9. Bekal Hosdurg Fort, Kasaragod
Hosdurg Fort, located near Kanhangad, is another historical fort built by local rulers.
It is known for its ruins and nearby temples.
The site offers insight into regional history.
10. Vypin Fort (Palliport Fort), Kochi
Vypin Fort, also known as Palliport Fort, was built by the Portuguese and later captured by the Dutch.
Though small, it represents early colonial architecture in Kerala.
Final Look
Kerala’s forts tell a different story compared to the rest of India.
They are coastal, not mountainous
Built for trade protection, not empire expansion
Shaped by global colonial powers
From Bekal’s grandeur to Pallipuram’s compact design, each fort reflects a different chapter of Kerala’s past.
If you want to understand Kerala’s history, don’t just read it.
Walk through its forts.
