Best Road Trips to Explore The Forts in Goa

Goa is undoubtedly the fun and party destination in the country and the place witnesses thousands of tourists all round the year. The stunning beaches, thrilling water sports, enlivening nightlife, and lip smacking sea food, are of course some of the best things about Goa, but the forts are equally beautiful. The forts reveal stories of the bygone era. These forts not only attract history buffs, but nature lovers are also seen enjoying their time here. Let us take a look at the famous forts in Goa that you should visit once you are in the state.

13 Famous Forts to Visit in Goa

1. Aguada Fort
2. Corjuem Fort
3. Cabo de Rama Fort
4. Rachol Fort
5. Colvale Fort
6. Chapora Fort
7. Reis Magos Fort
8. Terekhol Fort
9. Sinquerim Fort
10. Nanuz Fort
11. Mormugao Fort
12. Ponda Fort
13. Estêvão Fort

1. Aguada Fort

Aguada fort, a major tourist attraction in Goa today, was built in the 17^th century. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the fort is admired for the actual Portuguese architecture. You can have splendid views of the Sinquerim Beach from this fort; especially the view of sunset is breathtaking.

Timing: 7 am to 6 pm

2. Corjuem Fort

Constructed in the year 1705, Corjuem fort is one of the inland forts in Goa which was once used as the military fort by the Portuguese Army. The fort is popular because of its location and the wonderful views one can have from here,

3. Cabo de Rama Fort

It is said that Hindu Lord Rama and his wife Sita stayed here at Cabo de Rama fort during the period of their 14-year banishment from the city of Ayodhya. The fort is in Canacona taluka and has the church of Santo Antonio. You can also spend some time at the Cabo de Rama Beach, which is serene and help you to unwind.

Timing: 9 am to 5.30 pm

4. Rachol Fort

Rachol fort is known for witnessing war between the Vijaynagar and Bijapur empires. In 1520, the fort was handed over to the Portuguese to get military support from them. Now when you visit the fort, you will find a gateway, which will lead you to the Rachol seminary. The fort is also popular for its scenic beauty.

5. Colvale Fort

Colvale fort is also called Tivim fort, and is located on the banks of Bardez River. It was built on 1681, and you can now see only the ruins. This fort is famous among the history aficionados.

6. Chapora Fort

Chapora fort is popular in North Goa, and if you want to have breathtaking view of sunrise and sunset, you must visit this fort. It was built by Adil Shah of Bijapur in 1510. In 1717, the Portuguese occupied the fort.

Timing: 10 am to 5.30 pm

7. Reis Magos Fort

It is one of the ancient monuments in Goa, and you can have panoramic views from all its sides. Situated on the bank of River Mandovi in Goa, the fort was built in 1551. You can see entire Panjim from this fort. The fort is maintained by the cultural and heritage center at present.

Timing: 9.30 am to 5 pm

8. Terekhol Fort

Tiracol Fort, as called by the locals in Goa, is located on the mouth of River Tiracol. Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle constructed the fort in the 17^th century. However, it was later taken by the Portuguese. In 1961, this fort was used as the base for freedom fighters. The place is absolutely stunning and filled with scenic beauty. To reach the fort, you can take a ferry ride from Querim to here. You do not have to pay any entry fee to explore this fort.

9. Sinquerim Fort

Located at a close proximity to the capital city of Goa, Sinquerim fort was built in the year 1612. This fort is the lower extension of another fort, Aguada Fort. You can spend hours at this fort, enjoying the view of Arabian Sea.

Timing: 7 am to 6 pm

10. Nanuz Fort

Knowing the history of forts has always been an interesting subject, especially for the ones who are visiting the forts. Fetching out information about Nanuz fort; it was constructed in the 17^th century. The Maratha ruler Shivaji commissioned it. The fort was used during the revolts of Goa. You will be able to see various flora here and feel peace.

Timing: 8 am to 6 pm

11. Mormugao Fort

Situated in the northwestern point of Salcette, Mormugao fort is guarded by the Citadel. The fort is in its ruins, and you will only be able to see the fort wall and chapel. There was a time when there was a chapel, gigantic bulwarks and five prisons in the fort. The man who built this fort was Dom Francisco da Gama.

Timing:  There is no specific opening and closing time, but it is advised to the tourists to visit the place during day hours.

12. Ponda Fort

In 1665, the fort was captured by Maratha ruler Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj; thus, was named after him. As you will enter the fort, you will be able to see a life-size statue of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. There is a garden in the complex of the fort and one of the things to do here is picnic with your friends or family after an exhausting excursion of the monument.

Timing: 10 am to 6 pm

13. Estêvão Fort

The fort is situated on the island of Santo Estêvão. The island is famous for producing green vegetables, while you can see the ruins of the fort.

Timing: 6 am to 7 pm

Goa has many forts that you can visit on your trip. However, to save time and energy, you can book self drive cars rental in Goa by Revv. Taking the car on rent will certainly make your trip even better.