St. Angelo Fort, situated in Kannur—located within one of Kerala's 14 districts—stands out as a historical monument. Known locally as Kannur Kota and also referred to as Kannur Fort, it dominates the coastal edge, facing the Arabian Sea, about 3 km from the town center.

Kannur district is often called the "land of looms and lores" due to its thriving loom industries and the vibrantly celebrated temple festivals. It serves as a pivotal center for Theyyam, the traditional ritual dance of northern Kerala.

Constructed by Portuguese viceroy Don Francisco De Almeida, the fort is distinguished by its triangular shape and robust laterite stone construction. A significant barrier—a massive wall separates it from the sea. Historically, its dark rooms served punitive purposes where prisoners were confined in complete darkness with only a small hole for food delivery.

Though parts of this fort have deteriorated over time, its overall condition remains fair, preserving its majestic allure as it continues to attract numerous visitors. The top of the fort offers breathtaking views overlooking the sea and surrounding landscape.

Visitors can explore the fort daily from 08:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs without an entry fee, & camera usage is also permitted without charge.

Following its capture in 1790, St. Angelo Fort transitioned under British control becoming a central military hub in Malabar region. Today, managed under the Archaeological Survey of India, it holds a crucial place in heritage conservation efforts and lies within the official bounds of Kannur cantonment—one among India's 62 cantonments.

Unique Features:

The fort’s design includes imposing bastions and a surrounding moat, alongside remnants of an early oil lamp lighthouse—believed to be Kannur's first lighthouse. Additionally, residues of British military cantonment are visible within its premises. The view extends across natural fishing harbour Mappila Bay and over to Dharmadam Island—an exquisite spectacle that draws many admirers.

Visitor Experience:

One can relish exceptional vistas of the Arabian Sea from this fort with sunsets offering particularly enchanting scenes. Its lush green setting makes an ideal backdrop for photography enthusiasts seeking to capture nature’s beauty intertwined with historical architecture.

Entry & Exit Timings:

Entry Time : 9:00 AM. Exit Time : 6:00 PM.

Best Time To Visit : July to March.

Way to Reach :

By Air - Calicut International Airport is at a distance of 115 Km.

By Rail - Kannur Central Railway Station is at a distance of 3.6 Km.

By Bus - Kannur Bus Station is at a distance of 2.1 Km.

FAQs:

What are the visiting hours for St. Angelo Fort?

Visitors can explore St. Angelo Fort daily from 08:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs.

What is the historical significance of St. Angelo Fort?

St. Angelo Fort, built by Portuguese viceroy Don Francisco De Almeida, served as a crucial military hub in the Malabar region and was later controlled by the British. It is now managed by the Archaeological Survey of India.

What unique features can visitors see at St. Angelo Fort?

Visitors can see imposing bastions, a surrounding moat, remnants of an early oil lamp lighthouse, and views of the natural fishing harbor Mappila Bay and Dharmadam Island.

What makes Kannur district famous besides St. Angelo Fort?

Kannur district is known as the "land of looms and lores" due to its thriving loom industries and vibrant temple festivals, and it is a pivotal center for Theyyam, the traditional ritual dance of northern Kerala.

How can visitors get to St. Angelo Fort?

St. Angelo Fort is about 3 km from the Kannur town center and can be reached by air via Calicut International Airport (115 km away), by rail via Kannur Central Railway Station (3.6 km away), and by bus via Kannur Bus Station (2.1 km away).