East Fort
The East Fort is located at the heart of Thiruvanathapuram city, the capital city of Kerala – a South Indian state. East Fort got its name from the eastern entrance to the fort built by the Kings of Travancore. The old city was all inside the fort on four sides with the Sri Padmanabha Swami temple at the center. It is said that there were huge metal gates on this entrance to the Fort which was decorated with the symbol of a conch, which was the insignia of the Royal Family of Travancore.
East Fort or Kizhakke Kotta, as it is known in Malayalam, is today the heart of Thiruvananthapuram city. It is the central bus depot for the city bus services run by the state-run KSRTC and KURTC. It is linked by MG Road to rest of downtown Thiruvananthapuram, and is the point of diversion to other parts of the city, as well as the famed Kovalam beach. The city’s Central railway station, as well as the Central Bus Stand (for long distance buses) are both a few minute walk from East Fort, so are most of Thiruvananthapuram’s cinemas, as well as top cultural venues and shopping malls.Sri Padmanabha Swami Temple, from which the city takes its name (Thiru Anantha Puram means ‘the city or puram of Holy (Thiru) Anantha, another name for Vishnu, who is the deity of Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple), is situated inside the East fort entrance.
Another important landmark is the 125-year-old Attakulangara Government Central High School which was established in the year 1889 by the then social activist Marthandan Thampi during the reign of Ayilyam Tirunal situated near Gandhi park.
Kuthiramalika Palace museum, built by His Highness Swathi Thirunal Rama varma, Maharaja of erstwhile Travancore is also situated inside the Fort complex and its remains.
Gandhi Park is situated in front of the fort, which is famous for hosting socio-politico gatherings. The Ganesha temple, Pazhavangadi Ganapathi Temple, is also situated at the East Fort.
It is from the East Fort that one enters the Chalai Bazaar (Market), which was the main business center of Travancore. Gold, Flowers, Iron and Steel, Fruits and Vegetables to Cars and Computers, this is one spot where you get everything. The beauty of this place and its surroundings is so amazing that it is always swarmed by thousands of tourists daily.
Source : Wikipedia
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