Forts in Goa

Goa is known for its beautiful beaches, delectable seafood, pulsing nightlife, spirituality, water sports, and much more, but one of the most popular attractions here is the dazzling forts that tell the narrative of a bygone period. In Goa, if you follow the back roads, you'll find winding paths that lead to some of the most beautiful forts. While some of these old forts are popular tourist destinations, others remain hidden in the shadows of Goa's vivid image. These magnificent forts in Goa are not only popular with history buffs, but also with nature enthusiasts due to their impressive infrastructure and spectacular views.

Fort Aguada is one of Goa's most famous forts, with the Arabian Sea's waves kissing its towering walls. The strategically placed fort, built many centuries ago in 1612, was the most treasured edifice for the Portuguese monarchs. This enormous and majestic castle, located at the mouth of the River Mandovi, offers a breathtaking perspective of the limitless sea stretching out from it. Looking for more reasons to visit this well-known fort? What if we told you the fort had a hidden corridor that has been used in times of need and war?

Traveller Information:

• Famous for: Jail cells and secret passageways
• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 2 hours

Chapora Fort, perched high above the Chapora River, bears witness to numerous chapters of history that took place here. The fort, which was built in 1717, is an indisputable part of Goa's rich history. The fort's hilltop location provides spectacular vistas in all directions. The fort gave a strong defensive advantage to the residents during its heydays, with steep hills on all sides. It is now one of the forts in Goa that has lost much of its beauty to the passage of time. All that's left are its massive walls and a few tombstones. Even the church that originally stood within the compound has vanished entirely.

Traveller Information:

• Famous for: Bollywood movies
• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 2 hours

It is a well-known fort in Goa that provides a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The magnificent fort, which sits at the entrance of the Tiracol River, was once an important element of Portuguese marine defenses. The fort is reached through a boat journey from Querim. This beautiful building was erected in the 17th century by the king of Sawantwadi. The fort had a barrack and a peaceful church in its early days, but much has changed since then. The fort was severely damaged, and it had lost some of its allure. But it's not all doom and gloom! It has since been transformed into a heritage hotel in order to maintain its beauty and provide guests with the opportunity to stay within this historic edifice.

Traveller Information:

• Famous for: Heritage hotel
• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 2 hours

Do you want to see a fort that has stood on a Goa hilltop for almost 460 years, nearly fully intact? Then you should pay a visit to Reis Magos Fort, which dates back to 1551. The fort is adorned with robust laterite walls and intriguing Portuguese turrets. The building was one of the first fortifications built by Portuguese kings to defend against enemy invasion. The fort has served numerous purposes during its lengthy existence. The fort isn't particularly large, but it makes up for it by providing a spectacular view of the surrounding area from its vantage point.

Traveller Information: 

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Duration: 1 hour

If you believe forts are usually massive constructions, you haven't seen Corjuem Fort yet. It was built in the 18th century by Maratha kings and is one of Goa's lesser forts. The fortification is located on a small island in the Corjuem River. When Portuguese authorities took possession of the fort, it was given a makeover in the Portuguese style. The fort is now a protected monument that draws visitors all year. Corjuem Fort makes up for its lack of size with breathtaking views. Yes, the fort provides breathtaking views of the river and the countryside beyond.

Traveller Information:

• Famous for: Smaller in size compared to rest
• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 1 hour

Cabo da Rama, one of Goa's oldest forts, was previously under the control of the Hindu kings of the state. However, the fort was then passed down to the Mughal emperors, and it was eventually conquered by the Portuguese. The fort was used as a jail in more modern times before being abandoned. It now contains the Santo Antonio Church, which is in excellent shape. On any given day, you may find a large number of devotees worshiping at this cathedral, however, visitors are more likely to flock to it for its quiet setting and stunning vistas.

Traveller Information:

• Famous for: Oldest fort
• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 2 hours

Mormugao Fort, which sits at the entrance of the Zuari River, is a visible relic of Portuguese colonization in this coastal region. It dates back to 1624 when it was constructed with the goal of protecting the region's harbour. As a result, it operated as a vital coastal fort for a long time before the Portuguese abandoned it in favour of other sections of Goa. It had two magnificent fountains and a church before it became a destroyed building. The church may still be visited even if the fountains are no longer visible.

Traveller Information:

• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 2 hours

The capital city is 18 kilometers away, and Sinquerim Fort is located there. It is said to be the bottom extension of Aguada Fort and is a must-see attraction in Goa. This lovely fort splits Sinquerim Beach in two, and the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea will enchant you with their perfection. In the year 1612, it was founded. It is Aguada Fort's lower expansion.

Traveller Information:

• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 2 hours

Nanuz Fort is one of Goa's most intriguing forts, luring peace-seekers with its tranquility. The Nanuz Fort was built in the seventeenth century. Shivaji, the most popular Maratha monarch, commissioned it. The fort played an important part in Goa's revolts, and it watched the city's growth and collapse. The area is home to diverse flora, and the fragrant surroundings lure tourists.

Traveller Information:

• Famous for: Serenity
• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Duration: 1 hour

This iconic fort, named after the legendary Maratha king Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is one of the must-see forts in North Goa. In the year 1665, he conquered this fort, and there is now a life-size statue of him at the fort's entrance. The fort also includes a garden, which is a fantastic location for families to enjoy a day together.

Traveller Information:

• Famous for: Picnic spot
• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 1 hour

This site in ruins is one of the most renowned destinations to visit in South Goa. It is considered to be one of the greatest forts in the area. This fort, which is located in Betul Village, was erected in 1679 and has a wonderful perspective of the River Sal, which joins the Arabian Sea. The fort has the feel of an abandoned ancient site, and it's a peaceful location to relax and appreciate the scenery.

Traveller Information:

• Famous for: Located where the River Sal which meets the Arabian Sea
• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 1 hour

This fort was erected above the confluence of three rivers and served as a strategic stronghold for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the past. This fort in ruins is located on the lovely island of St Estevam and is surrounded by lush flora. Built-in the 19th century, this location is now in a state of disuse and is visited by a large number of people since the hamlet was connected to other sections of Goa.

Traveller Information:

• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 1 hour

This is one of North Goa's ancient treasures, which is weathered yet retains its allure. The Bhonsle of Sawantwadi erected this fort on the banks of the River Chapora to defend against Maratha attacks. The wonderful view of the river and the immensity may be enjoyed while walking up to the fort.

Traveller Information:

• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 2 hours

This ancient fort was constructed in 1681 and today remains as one of Goa's ruins. Nonetheless, it is regarded as a lovely spot to visit. This is a great spot for history enthusiasts to take in the sights of the surrounding area and ruins.

Traveller Information:

• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 90 minutes

After the Kadamba kingdom in Goa fell apart due to a conflict between the Vijayanagar and Bijapur empires, this magnificent fort rose to prominence. The fort's entrance has witnessed countless events and continues to draw many tourists. This fort, which is surrounded by scenic splendor, is as lovely as the other forts in South Goa.

Traveller Information:

• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 2 hours

This was constructed during the Portuguese reign of Goa to protect the country from intruders. This fort is now being rebuilt and is located 87 kilometres south of South Goa on the Karnataka coast. This fort, which is located on an isolated island, is a symbol of grandeur and splendor that attracts numerous people throughout the year.

Traveller Information:

• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Duration: 2 hours

Forts are locations where we, the mortals, come face to face with everlasting history in all of its splendor and details. Plan a visit to the above-mentioned forts in Goa, which showcase a combined culture and architecture of Portuguese and native Maratha kings, to learn more about this magnificent area. Make a point of visiting some of these forts the next time you plan a vacation to Goa, where stories from the past are ready to be recounted again and again.