Udayagiri Fort – Complete Travel Guide

Vikram Reddy

2 months ago

Discover Udayagiri Fort Kanyakumari in 2025: timings, entry fee, history, travel tips & nearby attractions. Plan your heritage adventure today

One evening, as I drove through the scenic hills near Nagercoil, I stumbled upon a partly ruined fortress set against lush greenery—this was Udayagiri Fort. The blend of colonial memories, local legends, and forested serenity made me pause in awe. Udayagiri Fort Kanyakumari may not be the grandest fortress in India, but it’s rich in stories, atmosphere, and panoramic views.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need—from official 2025 visiting hours and entry fees, to the fort’s architecture, history, access routes, photography spots, and nearby places to explore.

History and Significance

Originally constructed during the rule of the Travancore Kingdom, Udayagiri Fort was later rebuilt by King Marthanda Varma (1729–1758) after the integration of Dutch commander Eustachius De Lannoy into his army. The fort played a critical role as a military foundry, where cannons, guns, and ammunition were cast for Travancore’s defense.

De Lannoy’s influence transformed Travancore’s warfare. His tomb—along with those of his wife and child—rests within the fort complex, making this site a blend of history, loyalty, and legacy. Today, the fort stands as a quiet reminder of Kerala-Tamil Nadu’s shared colonial past and Travancore’s military brilliance.

Architecture and Highlights

Though partially in ruins, the fort’s massive granite walls and inner chambers showcase the engineering excellence of the 18th century.

Key highlights include:

Granite ramparts and bastions overlooking forested hills.
De Lannoy’s Tomb and Chapel, built in European style.
Old foundry remains, where weapons and cannonballs were forged.
Biodiversity Park, developed by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, housing medicinal plants and wildlife.
Panoramic viewpoints offering sweeping views of the Western Ghats.

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Local lore also hints at secret tunnels beneath the fort—although most are now sealed for safety.

Timings, Entry Fee & Visitor Information (2025)

According to Tamil Nadu Tourism, Incredible India, and Trawell.in:

Feature	Details
Opening Hours	8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Open Days	All days of the week
Entry Fee (Indian Nationals)	₹10 per person
Camera Fee	₹10
Best Visiting Duration	30 minutes – 1 hour

Note: Timings may vary slightly during monsoon or maintenance days. Parking facilities are limited, and roadside parking may cost around ₹50–75.

How to Reach Udayagiri Fort

By Air: The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV), approximately 60 km away.
By Train: Nagercoil Junction is the closest railhead, about 10–15 km from the fort.
By Road: Located in Puliyurkurichi, near Padmanabhapuram, it’s easily accessible via taxis or local buses from Nagercoil and Kanyakumari.
By Car: A scenic 20-minute drive from Padmanabhapuram Palace. Roads are well maintained but narrow near the fort entrance.

Pro Tip: Reach by 8:00 AM to enjoy the cool morning air and avoid afternoon humidity.

Best Time to Visit

Season	Weather	Recommendation
October – March	Pleasant and cool	Best time to visit
April – June	Hot and humid	Early morning visits preferred
July – September	Rainy and slippery	Avoid monsoon travel

The winter months are ideal for exploring, offering clear skies and perfect light for photography.

Things to See and Do

De Lannoy’s Tomb: The highlight of the fort; pay respects at the resting place of the Dutch commander who served Travancore faithfully.
Arms Foundry Area: Remnants of the military foundry still stand—a glimpse into 18th-century engineering.
Biodiversity Park: Spread across the inner fort, it’s home to native trees, herbs, and small wildlife.
Viewpoints: The bastions offer views of the Western Ghats and surrounding countryside.
Photography: Capture the mix of stone ruins and lush greenery—best during sunrise or golden hour.

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Nearby Attractions

Combine your visit to Udayagiri Fort with nearby heritage sites:

Padmanabhapuram Palace – 3 km away, one of India’s finest wooden palaces.
Vattakottai Fort – Coastal fort offering sea views.
Mathur Hanging Bridge – Engineering marvel near Thiruvattar.
Kanyakumari Beach and Vivekananda Rock Memorial – Around 35 km away.

For more temple and heritage travel ideas, explore Tamil Nadu travel packages.

Photography & Cultural Tips

Visit early morning for best lighting and fewer crowds.
Carry water and light snacks; limited shops nearby.
Respect restricted zones and avoid climbing fragile walls.
Drones are not allowed without permission.
Engage local guides for stories of the Travancore-Dutch war and De Lannoy’s legacy.

FAQs About Udayagiri Fort

What are Udayagiri Fort’s official timings in 2025?

The fort is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM as per Tamil Nadu Tourism.

What is the entry fee?

Entry costs ₹10 per person, with an additional ₹10 for cameras.

Is Udayagiri Fort open on Mondays?

Yes, it remains open on all days of the week.

How long does it take to explore the fort?

You can explore the entire site comfortably within 45 minutes to an hour.

Who built Udayagiri Fort?

It was originally built during the Travancore reign and later reconstructed by King Marthanda Varma under Eustachius De Lannoy’s supervision.

Is parking available?

Limited parking is available outside the fort, typically costing around ₹50–75.

What is the best time to visit?

Visit between October and March for pleasant weather.

Exploring Udayagiri Fort is like walking through chapters of forgotten history wrapped in greenery. The rustling leaves, echoing bird calls, and moss-covered stones tell tales of kings, wars, and resilience. Whether you’re a history lover, photographer, or casual traveler, this heritage fort offers a peaceful detour from Kanyakumari’s bustling tourist circuit.