East Fort

Thiruvananthapuram, India

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East Fort, locally known as Kizhakke Kotta, is a historic gateway and fortification in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, originally built by the Travancore kings to protect the Padmanabha Swamy Temple.

The fort dates back to the 14th century and served as the defensive entrance on the eastern side of the old city, which was surrounded by fort walls and centered on the temple. A unique story behind its name involves a king who ordered the eastern wall to be cut open to outsmart an astrologer's prediction, hence the nickname "Vettimuricha Kotta" or "cut-open fort."

The area is now a bustling commercial and cultural hub with many shops, government offices, palaces, and famous temples including the Padmanabha Swamy Temple, which is renowned for its architectural and spiritual significance. East Fort is a protected heritage site and is illuminated at night, symbolizing the region’s royal legacy and modern vibrancy.