5 Amazing Forts to Visit in South Goa (2024)
Goa is one of those beautiful Indian states, that many travelers across the country dream of traveling to one day. There is something exceptional about the laid-back beaches, the astounding natural beauty, and the soothing ambiance of Goa, which makes one addicted to it, making them frequent the place. However, that is not all. Apart from being the party capital of India, this state boasts of housing other treasures as well. If you take the path less traveled by and go on an offbeat vacation, then you will come across many interesting sightseeing attractions in Goa. The state of Goa is home to some formidable and spectacular forts which have successfully stood the test of time and have many unheard tales about the glorious history of this coastal state to tell.
A majority of these Goan forts are said to have been built by the Portuguese for defending their territory from enemy attacks. Apart from reflecting the glorious past, these forts in Goa also boast of offering their visitors a plethora of mesmerizing panoramic views of the mighty Arabian Sea and the lush green beauty all around. If you want to know some of the top forts to visit in South Goa, then you have come across the right link.
5 Amazing Forts to Visit in South Goa
In this article, we have already shortlisted some of the best ones for you.
1. Cabo De Rama Fort:
Sprawling over an area of about 1,80,000 square meters, this fort is believed to be one of the oldest forts in Goa. The fort boasts of carrying a rich legacy of the bygone era within its brilliant atmosphere. It is said the fort was once under the control of Hindu rulers of the land but later it was passed on to the Mughal rulers and eventually came under the dominion of the Portuguese. It is not surprising to know that plenty of legends are associated with the place. Each one of these legends tells a different story about the cultural past of the Cabo De Rama Fort. According to one of the legends, it is believed that the fort has derived its name from the holy Hindu epic, ‘Ramayana’. Till the year 1955, the Cabo de Rama fort served as a prison after which it was abandoned. In the current times, it is one of the top tourist places in Goa and even features the Church of Santo Antonia. This fort is frequented by many locals of the area owing to its natural serenity and tranquil environment. Image Source
Location: Canacona, South Goa
Opening Hours: You can visit the fort anytime from 9 AM till 5.30 PM on all days of the week.
Fun fact: There is a common belief among people that during the time of his exile from Ayodhya, Lord Rama stayed at this very location with his wife and brother for a long period. Hence, the fort, as well as the cape, are said to have been named in the honor of Lord Rama.
2. Mormugao Fort:
Located at the mouth of the beautiful river Zuari, this fort is one of the finest and most prominent reminders of the Portuguese colonialism that this coastal state once experienced. The fort traces its origin long back in history to the year 1624, when it was built in order to protect the port in the region from the attacks of enemies. You will be surprised to know that the Mormugao fort sprawls over a wide area of 6 miles in circumference. Since the time it was established, the fort of Goa has served a crucial strategic coastal for a long time until it was abandoned by the Portuguese as they turned the focus of their attention to the other parts of the state. Though now this majestic fort has turned into a somewhat ruined structure, but once upon a time this was a beautiful place featuring two lovely fountains and a tranquil chapel. In the current times, the fountains are not there but you can still visit the chapel. Owing to its happening location, this top has turned into one of the top tourist places in Goa attracting a plethora of travelers with its spectacular views and a lot more.
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Location: Mormugao, South Goa
Opening Hours: Though the fort is open all the time, but usually most travelers prefer to visit it from 7 AM till 5.30 PM due to safety concerns.
Fun fact: If you are a true history buff, then you would love to know that the gates of the fort carry inscriptions that give a glimpse of its glorious past.
3. Rachol Fort:
If you are searching for the top forts to visit in South Goa, then you can’t probably afford to miss this one. Surrounded by a series of pretty rice fields and shrimp farms, the fort is nestled amidst true natural beauty which is a sight to behold. You will be surprised to know that this fort was not always well–known. It actually came into the limelight after the collapse of the great Kadamba dynasty in Goa. The popularity of the fort raised drastically when the dynasty collapsed after the battles between Bijapur and Vijayanagar empires. The fort possesses massive gateways that have been loyal to the structure and have successfully stood the test of time. Standing tall since its establishment, the fort gateways boast of being a proud witness to many historically significant events. Though the Rachol fort may not appear to be that much impressive in terms of its structure quotient when it comes to scenic beauty, this fort gives tough competition to the other forts of South Goa. In fact, many people visit the fort, especially for its lush green surroundings.
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Location: Fr. Agnelo Road, Rachol, Salcete, South Goa
Opening Hours: Though the fort is open for visitors all the time, but most of the travelers prefer visiting the fort from 8 AM till 6 PM for the best experience.
Fun Fact: Now if you see Rachol fort, it may appear just as a massive structure but once upon a time in history the fort was proud home to as many as 100 canons and served as a stronghold of the Portuguese.
4. Anjediva Fort:
Located right on the border of Goa and Karnataka, this is another top fort of Goa you should include in your itinerary. Built long back in the year 1505 AD, the fort is also known by names like Ajdiv Fort or Anjadiva fort. Sprawling over an area of about 1.5 square kilometers on the stunning island, this historic fort of Goa was constructed during the Portuguese rule with the main aim to guard the land against the attack by invaders. The massive structure of the fort suffered some loss since the time it was constructed and hence was repaired and renovated to restore its lost glory. Situated at a distance of approximately 87 km from South Goa, on the close coast of Karnataka, the fort manages to attract plenty of travelers. Perched on top of an isolated island of the same name, the fort serves as one of the top tourist places to visit in Goa.
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Location: Anjdiv Island, South Goa
Opening hours: The fort is open for visitors throughout the day but the travelers usually prefer visiting it between 9.30 AM and 5 PM. It attracts visitors around the year.
Fun Fact: The mighty Anjediva fort acts as a symbol of the grandeur and the magnificence of the bygone era. It is quite popular among history buffs.
5. Betul Fort:
Located in the Betul village, this fort serves as a major sightseeing attraction of Goa. Tracing its origins long back in the year 1679, this fort boasts of offering its visitors plenty of stunning panoramic views of the soothing river Sal meeting the expansive Arabian sea. It is one beautiful sight to watch that will stay with you for a very long time.
Though the place is mostly in ruins now and may give you an impression of an abandoned archaeological site, it is often frequented by many locals as well as travelers seeking peace and quality time. Going on a leisure stroll nearby the fort area while soaking in the beautiful views and feeling the cool sea breeze gently tease your face, will surely be refreshing and rejuvenating for you.
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Location: Quitol, South Goa
Opening Hours: The fort is open for public visitors from 5.30 AM till 7 PM. It will take you about just 1 hour to explore the place. So, you have ample time.
Fun fact: Located amidst the wilderness, visit this place if you wish to enjoy both historical significance and nature’s beauty.
While some of the forts serve as the top historic tourist places of Goa, the others remain in the shadows of the state’s vibrant avatar, but the bottom line is that they all have something unique and interesting for you.
FAQ’s
Q1. What is the best time to visit Goa?
Ans. For the best experience, visit the state in between the months of November and February. The temperature is pleasant enough for sightseeing.
Q2. What is Goa popular for?
Ans. The state is well known for its electrifying nightlife, serene beaches, natural beauty, and tranquil atmosphere.
Q3. Is Goa a safe place to visit?
Ans. If you follow all the general safety procedures, then it is considered a safe state.