Goa, the most popular travel destinations in India exhibits an interesting amalgamation of Indian and Portuguese cultures. However, Goa is known for its stunning beaches, scrumptious seafood, electrifying nightlife, spirituality, water sports, and a lot more, but one of the prime attractions here are the illuminating forts that tells the story of the previous era. The revolt of Marathas against Portuguese and the episodes when the later conquered the area and developed it according to their culture and beliefs. These beautiful forts in Goa are not only loved by history-lovers but also attracts nature-lovers with their astounding infrastructure and panoramic sights. Read more to know the most interesting forts in Goa that will make you fall in love with their ambiance.
16 Best Forts In Goa
Check out the best forts in Goa unveiling the hidden stories of this lively place. These forts offer an amazing view and also give a glimpse of the history of these forts.
- Chapora Fort
- Reis Magos Fort
- Corjuem Fort
- Terekhol Fort
- Aguada Fort
- Sinquerim Fort
- Nanuz Fort
- Cabo de Rama Fort
- Ponda Fort
- Betul Fort
- St. Estêvão Fort
- Alorna Fort
- Colvale Fort
- Rachol Fort
- Mormugao Fort
- Anjediva Fort
1. Chapora Fort
Chapora Fort is the most popular fort in North Goa that lures visitors with its stunning sunset and sunrise views. The steepy slopes on all sides of this fort makes you capture the panoramic vistas of Malabar region having sea along its side.
Facts About Chapora Fort:
- The fort was established in the year 1510 by Adil Shah of Bijapur.
- The fort is located at a mesmerizing location where Chapora River meets Arabian Sea.
- The fort was occupied by the Portuguese in the year 1717.
Location: Chapora Fort, North Goa
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Must Read: 43 Famous Beaches In Goa That Will Make Your Vacay A Happy Trip
2. Reis Magos Fort
Reis Magos Fort is amongst the oldest forts in Goa and exhibits panoramic views from all sides. The astounding ambiance of this place makes it one of the most loved forts in Goa. Currently, the fort has been restored and maintained by the cultural and heritage center in Goa.
Facts About Reis Magos Fort:
- The fort was established in the year 1551.
- It is located on the bank of River Mandovi in Goa.
- The fort overlooks the entire capital city, Panjim.
- The place is located in proximity to Verem Bazaar.
Location: Verem, Bardez, North Go
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Suggested Read: 29 Most Romantic Places In Goa For Couples To Have A Lovely Time
3. Corjuem Fort
Corjuem Fort was established in the year 1705 in Goa. The fort is known for offering splendid sights of the surrounding area. It is one of the two prominent inland forts of Goa and lures travelers with its exquisite experiences.
Facts About Corjuem Fort:
- The fort was established in the year 1705.
- It served as the Military Fortress for Portuguese army.
- The fort is quite popular due to its unique location.
Location: Aldona, Corjuem, North Goa
Timings: 24×7
Suggested Read: 3 Days In Goa: A Guide To Help You Plan Your Getaway Better
4. Terekhol Fort
Another beautiful fort located in Goa is the Terekhol Fort that is also known as Tiracol Fort. Located at the mouth of River Tiracol, the place is known for its picturesque beauty. If you are planning to visit this gorgeous place while vacationing in Goa then you can take a ferry from Querim to this place.
Facts About Terekhol Fort:
- The fort was built in the 17th century by Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle.
- It was later taken over by the Portuguese.
- The fort served as the base for freedom fighters in the year 1961.
Location: Tiracol, North Goa
Timings: 24×7
Suggested Read: 12 Affordable Things To Do In Goa With Kids For Your Family Adventure
5. Aguada Fort
Aguada Fort is one of the most interesting forts in Goa and is loved by the travelers for its well-preserved structure. As the fort is overlooking the arabian Sea, you can capture the beautiful views in your camera. The place is usually visited in late afternoons as the sights of sunsets from the Aguada Fort is unmatchable.
Facts About Aguada Fort:
- This epitome of Portuguese architecture was established in the 17th century.
- The fort is located at Sinquerim Beach, nearly 18 kilometers from Panjim.
- The fort is known for purveying breathtaking views of the confluence of River Mandovi and the Arabian Sea.
Location: Aguada Fort Road, Candolim, North Goa
Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Suggested Read: 28 Watersports In Goa That You Must Add to Your Bucket List For A Fun Vacay!
6. Sinquerim Fort
Sinquerim Fort is located at a distance of 18 kilometers from the capital city. It is believed to be the lower extension of Aguada Fort and is one of the must-visit places in Goa. This beautiful fort divides the Sinquerim Beach into two and the stunning views of the Arabian Sea will surely spellbind you with its impeccable beauty.
Facts About Sinquerim Fort:
- It was established in the year 1612.
- It is the lower extension of Aguada Fort
Location: Candolim, North Goa
Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Suggested Read: 12 Delhi To Goa Trains: Best Rail Journeys Along The Konkan Coast
7. Nanuz Fort
One of the most interesting forts in Goa that lure peace-seeker with its serenity is Nanuz Fort. The fort played a significant role during the revolts in Goa and has witnessed the fall and the rise of the city. The place is home to a vibrant flora and its aromatic surrounding entices the visitors.
Facts About Nanuz Fort:
- The Nanuz Fort was established in the 17th century.
- It was commissioned by the most popular Maratha ruler Shivaji.
- The fort played a significant role in the revolts of Goa.
Location: Sattari, North Goa
Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
8. Cabo de Rama Fort
Image Credit: Aleksandr Zykov for Wikipedia
One of the most beautiful and famous forts in Goa, this is a perfect place for the people who love to explore abandoned places and ruins. Spread across an area of 1,80,000 sq metres, Cabo De Rama is one of the oldest and largest forts in the state. The place is named after Lord Rama and according to the legends, it is believed that he spent his exile years here with his wife and brother. Standing here one can enjoy the wilderness of the fort and also the magnificent view of the Arabian Sea.
Facts About Cabo De Rama Fort:
- This fort is named after Lord Rama
- Oldest fort in Goa
Location: Taluka Cabo de Rama, Canacona
Timings: 9AM-5:30PM
9. Ponda Fort
Image Credit: Maheshkumarkkk666 for Wikipedia
This iconic fort is one of the must-visit forts in North Goa which is named after the famous Maratha ruler Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He captured this fort in the year of 1665 and in the present day there is a life-size statue at the entrance of the fort. The fort also has a garden and makes a great picnic spot for the families to enjoy a family day.
Facts About Ponda Fort:
- Named after Chatrapati Shivaji
- Famous picnic spot in North Goa
Location: Donshiwado, Bandoda, Goa 403401
Timings: 10AM-6PM
10. Betul Fort
Considered to be one of the best forts in South Goa, this place in ruins is one of the famous places to visit. Located in the Betul Village, this fort was built in 1679 and offers a beautiful view of River Sal which meets the Arabian Sea. The fort gives a vibe of the abandoned archaeological site, this is quite a serene place to enjoy the wilderness.
Facts About Betul Fort:
- This is the point where the Sal River and the Arabian Sea meets
Location: Quitol, Goa
11. St. Estêvão Fort
This fort is built over the confluence of three rivers which was once the strategic hold for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Resting on the beautiful island of St Estevam, this fort in ruins is surrounded by the lush greenery. Built around the 19th century, this place is in the abandoned condition and visited by many visitors after the village was connected with other parts of Goa.
Facts About St Estevao Fort:
- This was built in the 19th century
- Connects the village with other parts of Goa
Location: North Goa
12. Alorna Fort
This is one of the historic gems of North Goa which is worn out but still holds its charm. Built over the banks of River Chapora, this fort was built by the Bhonsle’s of Sawantwadi for defense against Maratha Attacks. Walking up to the fort one can enjoy the beautiful view of the river and the vastness.
Facts About Alorna Fort:
- This fort was built for protection from Maratha attacks
Location: Alorna, Goa 403512
Timings: 8AM-6PM
13. Colvale Fort
This historic fort was built during the year 1681 and now stands as one of the ruins in Goa. Yet, it is considered to be a beautiful place to visit. This is an ideal place for the history buffs to enjoy the beautiful sight of the surroundings and the ruins.
Facts About Colvale Fort:
- This fort was built in 1681
Location: Tivim, Goa 403502
14. Rachol Fort
This beautiful fort came into the limelight after the collapse of the Kadamba dynasty in Goa after its battle between Vijayanagar and Bijapur empires. The gateway of this fort has seen many events and still stands tall and attracts many visitors. Surrounded by the scenic beauty, this fort is as beautiful as other forts in South Goa.
Facts About Rachol Fort:
- This fort was built after the defeat of Kadamba dynasty
Location: Fr. Agnelo Rd, Rachol, Goa 403719
Timings: 24 Hours
15. Mormugao Fort
This is an ideal place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city to explore this beautiful and heritage fort. Surrounded by the beautiful view and greenery and also the mesmerizing view of the restless sea. This is a centuries-old fort which is also considered as one of the foremost coastal forts located in South Goa. It was actually built to guard the mouth of the harbor of Mormugao port.
Facts About Mormugao Fort:
- This is a century-old fort of Goa
Location: Mormugao, South Goa
16. Anjediva Fort
Image Credit: Manjunath Doddamani Gajendragad for Wiki
This was built around when the Portuguese ruled Goa, and it was made to guard the land against invaders. In the present day, this fort is renovated and located at a distance of 87 km from South Goa on the nearby coast of Karnataka. Resting in an isolated island, this fort reflects a symbol of grandeur and magnificence and attracts many visitors throughout the year.
Facts About Anjevida Fort:
- This fort was built during the Portuguese rule
Location: NA
Timings: NA
Further Read: Enjoy A Great New Year In Goa On A Budget
Isn’t it interesting to unveil the other side of Goa that is rarely known by party-lovers staying here? Witness the story of this beautiful place by planning a visit to the above-mentioned forts in Goa showcasing a mixed culture and architecture of Portuguese and local Maratha rulers. Plan a trip to Goa with TravelTriangle and get an exclusively customized itinerary drafted according to your preferences.
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Sakshi Awasthi, an ardent traveler by heart is a Research Scholar from the University of Delhi. Unveiling the untold story of historical sites and encountering the impeccable beauty of nature, turned her to be a Travel Blogger. Currently, working as a Senior Content Writer with TravelTriangle.
