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Top 8 Stunning Forts To Visit In Goa, India

Top 8 Stunning Forts To Visit In Goa, India

The name ”Goa” seems to be associated with stunning beaches, delectable seafood, and wild all-night parties. 

Even after numerous trips, there’s something about Goa’s laid-back sun-and-sea vibe that never gets old

But if you care to look around, India’s party capital is also teeming with other gems.

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The strong forts are one example of a treasure to visit in Goa.

In Goa, some of the less traveled roads will lead you to the most ancient and interesting structure that witnessed many past events.

These forts are quite beautiful and each fort is wrapped with stories from the pages of history.

In this article, you will get to know about the following forts you can visit in Goa,

  1. Reis Magos Fort
  2. Aguada Fort
  3. Chapora Fort
  4. Corjeum Fort
  5. Colvale Fort
  6. Mormugao Fort
  7. Alorna Fort
  8. Cabo De Rama Fort

Let’s see each of these in detail…

1. Reis Magos Fort

One of Goa’s oldest forts, Reis Magos Fort offers expansive views of stunning landscapes. It is one of the most visited fortresses in Goa because of its amazing atmosphere.

Despite some damages to the fort, restoration efforts have been able to restore a large portion to its former glory.

Currently, the cultural and heritage center in Goa is responsible for maintaining and restoring the fort.

The Reis Magos Fort, whose history dates back to 1551, is adorned with sturdy laterite walls and alluring Portuguese turrets.

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It is one of the first bastions where Portuguese emperors defended themselves against the invasion of opponents.

The fort has had a long history and has served many purposes in the past. Viceroys and other important dignitaries who came to visit the shores of Goa once lived here.

It was also used as a prison until 1993 and was later abandoned.

Although the fort isn’t particularly large, you can surely have a faraway view from its vantage point.

It now serves as a cultural hub and is a well-known tourist destination in Goa.

2. Aguada Fort

Aguada Fort, Goa

Fort Aguada is one of Goa’s most famous forts, with the Arabian Sea rolling against its lofty walls. It offers a breathtaking view of the endless sea extending away from it.

This fort, which was strategically built in 1612, was the Portuguese emperor’s most valuable structure.

The four-story Portuguese lighthouse, constructed in 1864, is just one of the iconic features of the fort that make it a popular tourist destination.

This lighthouse is the oldest of its kind on the entire Asian continent.

However, it was abandoned in 1976 and is no longer in operation.

The prison cells at Aguada Fort are another intriguing feature.

3. Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort is one of the most visited forts in Goa. It has been in the limelight of travelers since it was used during the shooting of the Bollywood film Dil Chahta Hain.

It was built in 1717 by Adil Shah of Bijapur.

The fort dramatically overlooks the spectacular Chapora River and is known to be a monument near which numerous historical events occurred.

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Unquestionably, the fort is a vital part of Goa’s rich heritage.

The defense of the fort had commanding views in every direction due to its hilltop location. 

With its fortified walls on every side, the fort gave its occupants a tremendous defensive advantage during its prime time.

One can also have an alluring panoramic vista of the Arabian Sea from here. 

4. Corjeum Fort

Corjeum Fort has located about 4 km from the village of Aldona on an island in the Corjuem River. 

It is one of the smallest yet one of the most popular forts in Goa.

When Portuguese emperors took control of the fort, it underwent renovations that reflected the style of the new occupants. 

It was established in the year 1705 by the Maratha kings.

To boost their defense position in this coastal region of India, they used it as a military stronghold.

The fort draws tourists year-round and is now a protected monument.

5. Colvale Fort

This important fort was constructed in 1681 and is now one of Goa’s ruins. Nevertheless, many people think it’s a lovely place to visit.

History buffs love the beautiful view of the surroundings and the ruins at this location.

O Fortaleza de So Sebastio de Colvale is another name for Colvale Fort. D. Miguel de Noronha, conde de Linhares, Viceroy of the Portuguese State of India, gave the order to construct this fort in 1635.

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Additionally, in 1681, its fortifications were constructed to protect Bardez Taluka’s northern borders.

Fort Colvale is one of the important tourist attractions and offers a pleasant and relaxing environment near the Bardez River.

This fort was captured by the Marathas in 1739, but The Portuguese took control of it in 1741.

6. Mormugao Fort

Mormugao Fort, which adorns the mouth of the River Zuari, serves as a strong reminder of Portuguese colonialism over this coastal region. 

It dates back to 1624 when it was constructed to defend the local port. As a result, it provided strategic coastal defense for a while before the Portuguese abandoned it to capture other areas of Goa.

It had a chapel and two beautiful fountains before it was destroyed.

The chapel is still accessible even though the fountains are no longer visible. Inscriptions on the fort’s gates provide a window into its colorful past.

Visitors to this fort are rewarded with breathtaking views of old-fashioned fishing boats lining the coast.

This heritage port is a perfect place to hang out in Goa. 

7. Alorna Fort

Alorna Fort is one of North Goa’s historical treasures. Even though it is dilapidated, it still exudes its former charm.

It is also referred to as Halarn Fort.

The Bhonsle family of Sawantwadi constructed this fort over the banks of the River Chapora to ward off the Maratha attacks.

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You can take in the stunning view of the river and the vastness by ascending to the fort.

This is also one of the earliest forts in Goa.

8. Cabo De Rama Fort

Cabo de Rama, which is among the oldest forts in Goa, was formerly governed by Hindus.

It is spread across an area of 1,80,000 sq meters. Therefore Cabo De Rama is also one of the largest forts in the state.

Unsurprisingly, there are numerous legends connected to this location, each of which provides information about its rich cultural past. 

According to a legend, the fort and the cape were given their names in honor of Lord Rama from the Ramayana, a Hindu epic.

During their protracted exile from Ayodhya, the legend says that Lord Rama and his wife Sita resided here.

The fort was passed to the Mughal emperors, and then the Portuguese took control of it.

Before it was abandoned, the fort was used as a prison up until 1955. Today, it contains the beautifully maintained Church of Santo Antonio. 

Quite a few devotees can be seen praying at this church every day, but tourists are more likely to visit because of the place’s serene atmosphere and alluring views.

These are some of the popular forts you can visit in Goa.

Apart from the crazy nightlife and spending a laid-back lifestyle on the sea beach, plan a day out to these magnificent forts to have an insight into the deep-rooted past of Goa, especially during the Portuguese Rule. 

Click amazing photos of these less-trodden destinations to have some interesting collections on your Goa album!


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The images used in the article are for representation purposes only.