About St. Angelo Fort
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.
St. Angelo Fort Highlights
• 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.
How To Reach St. Angelo Fort
By road -
- By car/taxi: The St. Angelo Fort is 4 KM from Kannur city centre, you can reach there in around 11 minutes via SP Office Rd. Visitors can also take taxi from the city centre to the St. Angelo Fort.
Best Time To Visit St. Angelo Fort
Peak Season (November to February)
- Weather Insights: Pleasant weather with temperatures between 20°C to 28°C; cool breeze from the sea.
- Things to Do: Explore the fort, enjoy photography, and attend local events in Kannur city.
Moderate Season (March to May)
- Weather Insights: Warm and slightly humid with highs touching 34°C, but sea breeze offers relief.
- Things to Do: Early morning walks at the fort, beach visits nearby, and exploring Kannur’s temples.
Low Season (June to September)
- Weather Insights: Monsoon season with heavy rains and lush greenery; fort pathways may be slippery.
- Things to Do: Best for monsoon photography, fewer crowds, and peaceful nature walks (avoid peak rain days).
St. Angelo Fort Other Essential Information
Know before you go
- Make sure to carry water, and wear a hat as this fort is open and is on the beach side, and there are sunny areas to explore.
- Recommended to visit early morning or after 4 PM for the best lighting and a suitable environment.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you might walk on uneven paths.
- Read the historical signboards that are placed inside the fort by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for a better experience.
Walk along the Ramparts Overlooking the Sea
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.
Explore the Dutch Tunnels and Barracks
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.
Relax on the Lawn and Enjoy a Quiet Picnic
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.
Tourism Board Alliances
St. Angelo Fort FAQs
What is St. Angelo Fort, Kannur’s history?
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.
What is the St. Angelo Fort’s entrance fee?
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.
Is St. Angelo Fort suitable for children or elderly visitors?
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.
.jpg)
.jpg)