Chapora Fort

The journey: The drive from Panjim may take a while, but the views along the way will make it seem to pass fast. The roads leading to the fort are adorned with swaying palm trees and lush fields on either side with glimpses of hills in the distant view.

History: Details about the history of fort are not clear as every source seems to have its own version of the story. But the Chapora Fort was built in 1612 and was besieged twice by Shivaji’s son, Sambaji, in 1683 and Bhonsle in 1739, and occupied by the Portuguese in 1741. The fort is very old and in a ‘not-so-good’ shape now. But the government has ordered for the restoration work of this historical monument. This fort is a hot favorite for movie shoots – a number of movies have been shot here, the most famous one being Dil Chahta Hai.

The experience: The fort stands on a hillock, so a little trekking is required to reach the place, but you’re in for a bigger and much more serene surprise next. Maintaining your balance with the tiny slippery round stones, just as you direct your steps to the fort, an enormous view of the sea will break open from nowhere. The blurred horizon and the blue ocean bring a big smile to your face even before you realize it. It looks so tempting, that you might get diverted from the fort just to get a better view of the ocean. There are big rocks on the hill which can help you sit and enjoy the view, before you restart walking towards the fort.

Location: Chapora,Vagator, Goa 403509

Distance from Panjim: 21 Km via Nh 17

Estimated time to reach: 50 minutes

Entry fee: None

Major attractions: The ruins of the fort, the view of the hillock and the breath taking gaze of the sea that seamlessly blends with the horizon

Planet Goa Team

For us at Planet-Goa, our team is driven by that feeling of exhilaration that one gets when discovering that something ‘unique’ and ‘new’ about Goa for our ever-so-discerning readers.