Vattakottai Fort - Seaside Fort near Kanyakumari
Vattakottai Fort was constructed as a defensive barrier from the sea, by the erstwhile Travancore rulers. It was constructed in the 18th century under the supervision of one naval officer of the Dutch East India Company. It is rectangular in shape covering an area of nearly 4 acres. The enclosing walls are 25 feet high, 29 feet thick at the front, 18 feet at the corners and 6 feet in the rear. A noteworthy redesign of the fortification was embraced as of late by the office and the site is presently a regular traveler spot. This fort holds the view of the ocean on one side, and the slopes on the other. Another intriguing element close to the site is a shoreline with dark sands.
There was also a hidden underground path through a tunnel of around 4 feet wide, connecting this fort to Padmanabhapuram Palace, which is not active now. A small pond in the centre of the fort enables the visitors to sit and enjoy the view of the ocean. The raised parade ground is the best place to get a view of the surrounding area along with the sea. The fort is now a protected monument site under the Indian archaeological department and the administration makes timely renovations to ensure that the site is preserved as well as qualified for the tourists.