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Hosdurg Fort, also known as Kanhangad Fort, is a prominent historical structure located in Kanhangad town in Kerala’s Kasaragod district. Built in the 17th century by King Somashekara Nayaka of the Keladi Nayaka dynasty from Ikkeri, this fort once served as a powerful military bastion and administrative hub in northern Kerala. Today, the remains of its round bastions and laterite walls stand as silent witnesses to its glorious past, perched on a low hillock that offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and nearby hills like Manjampothikunnu.
Architectural Grandeur and Cultural Significance
Spanning approximately 26 acres, Hosdurg Fort reflects a Dravidian architectural style that it shares with other regional forts such as Bekal and Kumbala. Though much of the structure is now in ruins and overgrown with vegetation, the fort still holds immense historical and cultural significance. The round bastions and crumbling walls once housed watchtowers and inner chambers designed for defense and trade management. The site also includes a small cremation ground and government offices today.
Adjacent to the fort lies the Poonkavanam Karpooreswara Temple, a Shiva temple built by the Nayakas, adding spiritual depth to the historical site. Not far from the fort is the well-known Nithyananda Ashram, featuring 45 holy caves carved into the laterite rock, which adds to the region’s religious appeal. These caves and spiritual surroundings have made the area a pilgrimage stop and a quiet retreat for visitors. Despite the lack of maintenance, the fort is a peaceful place to explore, especially during evening hours when the sea breeze and views create a tranquil atmosphere.
Visitor Information
Hosdurg Fort is open 24 hours a day and typically takes 1 to 2 hours to explore. Entry is very affordable, with a nominal fee of INR 5 for adults. The best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant for walking around the site. The fort is easily accessible—just 2 kilometers from Kanhangad Railway Station and around 85 kilometers from Kannur International Airport. Local buses, taxis, and private vehicles are convenient options for reaching the site. While currently undermaintained, Hosdurg Fort remains a must-visit for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts drawn to Kerala’s rich architectural legacy.
FAQ's
Entry Fee for Hosdurg Fort
The entry fee for Hosdurg Fort is INR 5 per adult.
Best Time to Visit Hosdurg Fort
One can visit Hosdurg Fort anytime throughout the year, the fort is open 24 hours but we recommend you visit the place between 6 AM to 7 PM.
Things to Do at Hosdurg Fort
Explore the fort and the surroundings, Visit the Shiva temple at the fort, Photography, Nature walk, Local food, etc.
How to Reach Hosdurg Fort
Hosdurg Fort is 29 kilometers away from Kasargod and 3.5 kilometers away from Kanhangad town. One can reach this fort by walking or by hiring a taxi or autorickshaw. The nearest railway station is at Kanhangad which is around 5 kilometers away and the closest airports are Kannur international airport and Mangalore international airport, both are 85 kilometers away from the Hosdurg Fort.
