Anchuthengu

Anchuthengu, formerly known as Anjengo, is a coastal town in the Thiruvananthapuram District of Kerala.

This was an old Portuguese settlement lies between Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram, near Varkala. Literally the word ‘Anjuthengu’ means 'five coconut palms.’ The whole land is cultivated with coconut trees.

The place possesses great archaeological and historical importance. In 17th century, the English East India Company selected Anjengo to set up their first trade settlement in Kerala. The Queen of Attingal granted the place to the British for trading. They established a factory and a fort here with the permission of the queen.

Many ancient churches, an old lighthouse, a 100 year old convent and school, tombs of Dutch and British and the Anjengo Fort are major points of interest here. The churches are built in accordance with the principles of the Portuguese architectural style. The fort played an important role in the Anglo-Mysore Wars in the 18th century.

Anchuthengu has a beautiful and clean beach. Fishing boats parked on the hot sand and nets drying in the sun are worth seeing. Kaikara village, the birth place of the famous Malayalam poet Kumaran Asan, is located nearby.

Bird's eye view of Anjuthengu from light house

Anchuthengu is about 36 km north of Thiruvananthapuram. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport. Kadakkavur Railway Station is 2 km away.