Ahoy mateys! Welcome to the land of sun, sea, and sand – Goa! A place where the air is infused with the aroma of spices, and the culture is as vibrant as the people. Goa is not just about beaches, but it’s also a land of rich history and tradition. And what better way to dive into the past than by visiting the magnificent forts of Goa? So, get ready to explore the Top 5 Popular Forts to Visit in Goa!
Our first stop is none other than the legendary Fort Aguada. Built in 1612, this colossal fort was constructed to protect Goa from the Dutch and Marathas. The fort gets its name from the freshwater spring that supplied water to the ships that sailed by. The fort is situated on a hilltop, giving a panoramic view of the Arabian sea. The fort is also famous for its lighthouse, which was built in 1864 and is still functional to this day. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “I came here for a fun article, why all this history stuff?” But hold your horses, because here comes the fun part! Rumour has it that the fort was once used as a jail for female prisoners, and if you listen closely, you can still hear their cries for help. So, explore this amazing place by having your personal self-drive car rental in goa and enjoy the fort tales in real-time!
Now, let’s head to the charming Reis Magos Fort. This fort was built in 1551 and served as a defense against the Dutch and Marathas. The fort was renovated in 2008 and now houses a museum showcasing Goa’s history and culture. The fort also offers a splendid view of the Mandovi river and the capital city of Panaji. And guess what, you can even take a ferry ride from Panaji to the fort. It’s a short and scenic ride, and you can take some stunning pictures on the way. The fort is a perfect spot for a family outing, and the kids will love exploring the museum and playing around the fort’s ramparts.
Our next destination is the Terekhol Fort. This fort is situated at the mouth of the Terekhol river, and you have to cross the river by ferry to reach the fort. The fort was built in the 17th century and served as a defense against the Marathas. The fort was captured by the Portuguese in 1746 and remained under their control until 1961 when Goa was liberated. The fort has been converted into a heritage hotel, and you can stay here and experience the charm of living in a fort. The hotel also hosts a weekly music night, where you can listen to some traditional Goan music and dance the night away.
Last but not least, we have the majestic Cabo de Rama Fort. This fort is located on top of a hill, overlooking the Arabian sea. The fort was built in the 16th century and served as a defense against the Marathas. The fort was captured by the Portuguese in 1763 and remained under their control until Goa was liberated. The fort is named after Lord Rama, who is said to have taken shelter here during his fourteen-year exile. The fort is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The fort is also home to a small chapel, which is believed to be the place where Lord Rama prayed. The fort is a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The visiting hours to see this fort is 9 am–5:30 pm Monday to Sunday. If you are staying in Panjim, the best option to reach this fort is car rental in goa which gives you the flexibility to enjoy the mesmerizing sunset view from Cabo de Rama Fort
So there you have it, folks, the Top 5 Popular Forts to Visit in Goa! These forts offer a glimpse into Goa’s rich history and culture and are a must-visit spot for anyone visiting Goa. But don’t take my word for it, pack your bags, put on your adventure shoes, search a car on rent in Goa and head to the forts to experience the magic yourself. And remember, in Goa, there’s always something new to explore and discover, so keep your eyes and ears open and embrace the spirit of Goa. Happy travels!
