Anchuthengu is a small coastal town between the sea and backwaters near Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala. Various colonial powers tried to occupy the place in the past but the British East India Company established its first trade settlement here in 1684, and built the Anjengo Fort. ‘Anjengo’ was a mispronunciation of the word Anchuthengu by the British. Though very small in area, its relevance in Kerala's colonial history and in India's maritime trade attracts visitors to this place.

A British Stronghold 
The East India Company got permission to build a fort and also the monopoly of pepper trade from the queen of Attingal. Though there was resistance from the Dutch initially, it was completed by 1699. The fort became crucial during the Anglo-Mysore Wars as an ammunition store and signaling station. In 1721, it faced a rebellion from the locals which was defended by the British, but this has significance as the first collective move against the British rule in Kerala. Over time, Anjengo evolved into a major trading hub for the East India Company, dealing primarily in pepper and cotton cloth. 

A Historical Landmark 
Today, Anjengo Fort with its high laterite walls and bastions stands as a well-preserved historical landmark, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The fort has lookout points and entrances on the east and west. Visitors can explore its barracks, storehouses, and chapel and appreciate its colonial-era architecture. Nearby, there are old churches and a cemetery. The fort's location, sandwiched between a beach and backwaters, makes it a popular destination for tourists.

The best time to visit Anjengo Fort is during the cooler, dry months from October to February which is the ideal time for exploring the fort and surrounding attractions. If you want to experience local culture and festivities in addition to the historical exploration, you should plan a trip during December to April when the famous ‘Theyyam’ festival takes place.