The moment we hear the word 'fort' our mind gets bombarded with huge archways, doors, ruined palaces, entrances, temples, churches, mosque etc. but here it is totally different.
The Chapora Fort in Goa is a real old fort. It was built during the time of the Portuguese invasion. Probably, it was a thriving fort at that point but now nothing remains except the fort walls.
Chapora Fort
PC: Kumars
You may ask why visit Chapora Fort when there is nothing much left out of the fortress? Well, the locality of the Chapora Fort will erase all your doubts. Chapora River on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other two sides will take your breath away.
Location of Chapora Fort
Chapora Fort is a hill fortress which is situated at Bardez of Goa. Tourists have to actually take a small hike up the hill to touch the fort wall. Bardez is around 15km from the capital city of Panaji or Panjim.
Chapora Fort
PC: Savikagomes
History of Chapora Fort
Earlier there was another fort which was replaced by the Chapora Fort. Even after the Portuguese rule, the fort was under many other kingdoms. It was acquired by the Mughal Emperor Akbar for some time. Later, it was invaded by the Maharaja of Sawantanwadi and finally it came under the Marathas.
Chapora Fort served as a military base for the Portuguese and Marathas but lost its significance later on.
Chapora Fort
PC: Bornika
Attractions of Chapora Fort
The beauty of Chapora Fort lies in the surrounding nature. We can very well understand why it was a strong defence base. The views from this hill fort are just amazing.
Chapora River
One can see the serene Chapora River joining the Arabian Sea. One side of the fort takes us towards the river.
Chapora Beach
Chapora Beach is near to the fort and we can get an awesome view of the sea. Chapora Beach is not very crowded like Anjuna or Baga Beach in Goa. So, it is ideal to spend a quiet time.
Vagator Beach
Vagator Beach is one of the top attractions near Chapora Fort. Yes, we can actually see the Vagator Beach from the fortress.
Don't expect anything inside Chapora Fort but still you will love the tranquility of the place. Once you get inside the fort entrance, the land is almost empty with a few ruins here and there. You can also see the bordering ramparts of the fort. Otherwise, the vast grassland and astounding views of the sea will definitely make your day.
Chapora Fort
PC: Catchuec
Dil Chahta Hai Wall!
Well, most of us know Chapora Fort through a scene from the hit film 'Dil Chahta Hai'. So, you can actually feel the 'Dil Chahta Hai' moment by sitting on the same walls of the fort. You will know why this view appealed so much to us in the film.
Already getting excited? Well, you will love all these attractions of Chapora Fort. So, make sure you visit it when you go to Goa.
How to Reach Chapora Fort
Chapora Fort can be reached from Panjim or Panjim and Mapusa City. It is around 15km from Panaji and 10km from Mapusa.
Click - How to Reach Chapora Fort