Opening hours: Monday - Sunday: 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Peak Day & Hours: Weekends, morning, and evening
Suggested Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Tickets: Available Offline
Nearest Railway Station: Kannur Railway Station, about 3 km away
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport, about 35 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: Kannur bus stop, about 3 km
St. Angelo Fort, Kannur, was built in 1505 by the Portuguese, Dom Francisco de Almeida, and is also known as the Kannur Fort. This fort overlooks the Arabian Sea and has witnessed centuries of power transitions between the Portuguese, Dutch, and British empires. Each of them left their architectural imprints on the thick walls of this fort and secret tunnels, making it one of the best places to visit in Kannur.
This fort, today, is an ASI-protected monument and offers an in-depth historical experience featuring cannon holes, underground chambers, and scenic views of Moppila Bay. The fort’s beautiful coastal environment, well-maintained lawns, and airy pathways make it a perfect place for history enthusiasts, photographers, and casual travellers. Visitors here can explore old barracks, cells, and the Dutch-era lighthouse while learning about Kannur’s colonial maritime history.
St. Angelo Fort’s beautiful sea-facing location makes it a must-visit destination in North Kerala. This fort is not just a place of military history, but also a peaceful and serene escape for its visitors, where stones, walls, and the lawns speak of the past.
• Stroll through St. Angelo Fort, Kannur’s laterite bastions, built by the Portuguese in 1505 for defence on the coastline.
• Observe the remains of Dutch barracks and secret tunnels that tell the stories of colonial interest.
• Behold the beautiful views of the Arabian Sea from the ramparts, making it a peaceful and relaxing visit.
• Visit the old prison cells and armory, giving insights into the fort’s military past.
By road -
Peak Season (November to February)
Moderate Season (March to May)
Low Season (June to September)
Know before you go
You can take long walks along the fort’s ramparts while beholding the views of the Arabian Sea. The ramparts are the pathways that offer vantage points to capture Kannur’s coastline. The views are the best when visited during early mornings or sunsets when the sky is colored with the hues of Pink, Orange, and red.
Visitors can observe the old Dutch-era barracks and underground pathways that were once used to serve as storage and escape routes. These old remains at the fort display colonial architecture and let you relive the fort’s military past, and showcase a lesser-known side of its historical significance.
The fort’s inner area is lined with green, well-maintained lawns where you can relax, sit with friends or family, and soak in the history around you. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a light snack, read a book, or just appreciate the sea breeze and silence that fills the open space.
St. Angelo Fort was built in 1505 by Dom Francisco de Almeida, who was the first Portuguese Viceroy of India. Later, the Dutch Empire took control of this fort in 1663, and eventually it came under the control of the British. Over the centuries, this fort has been a stronghold in naval warfare and colonial administration, making it one of the most historically significant forts on the Malabar Coast.
The entrance fee for St. Angelo Fort is around ₹25 for Indian adults and ₹300 for foreign nationals. The prices can change as per ASI rules and regulations, make sure to check on the spot. The St. Angelo Fort’s opening hours are from 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM every day.
Yes, the fort is accessible for people of most age groups. However, some areas like the higher ramparts or uneven steps, may require caution. There are open lawns and shaded resting spots that make it comfortable for elderly visitors and families with kids.