Goa is not all about sandy beaches and nightlife; but, it has secrets which reveal tales of kings, battles, and eternal beauty. The Chapora fort rises high over the Chapora River and the vast Arabian Sea. If you have watched the Bollywood masterpiece “Dil Chahta Hai”, you will immediately identify this place as the popular Dil Chahta Hai Fort. However, outside of the world of cinema, this fort is where history comes into contact with breathtaking scenes.
Just picture yourself climbing a mountain path, or relaxing by the sea, and when you get to the top, you can see panoramic views of Vagator Beach, Anjuna Beach and the vast ocean. If you are a history lover, love photos or simply love fantastic sunsets, then just have faith and must visit the Chapora fort Goa you'll surely walk away from this place with memories to last.
Chapora Fort History
The story of Chapora Fort Goa begins with Sultan Adil Shah, who built the original Shahpura Fort as a watch post to keep an eye on the city activities. In 1617, the Portuguese rebuilt it on the same site, using its perfect location by the Chapora River and the Arabian Sea to defend against Maratha invasions.
The fort saw many battles and frequent changes of power. During 1684, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj captured this place when his soldiers scaled the walls with the help of monitor lizards, forcing the Portuguese to surrender. Later, the fort was retaken by the Portuguese, briefly ruled by the Sawantwadi kings, and finally remained under Portuguese control from 1741 to 1892.
Though now it is in ruins, the walls of Chapora Fort still echo tales of bravery and rivalry of the soldiers. Today, it is loved not only for its rich history but also for its breathtaking views of Vagator Beach and the Arabian Sea.
Basic Information About Chapora Fort
Everything you need to know before you plan your trip is here:
Chapora Fort Timings: Open every day, 9.30 AM - 5.30 PM.
Chapora Fort Entry fee: No charges at all.
Chapora Fort Location: Bardez, North Goa
Chapora Fort Distance:
From Panjim: 22 km
From Calangute: 10 km
Vagator Beach: 2 km (on foot)
Best Time to Visit Chapora Fort
Choosing the right season can make your visit to Chapora Fort Goa even more memorable. From winter sunsets to monsoon greenery, every season paints the fort with a different charm. Here’s what you can expect:
Winters (November- March): Chapora Fort Goa can be best seen in the months of November to March when Goa is at its best. It is cool and pleasant and ideal as a place to sightsee or trek up the slope of the fort. The winters keep the climb easy and the sunsets simply hypnotising.
Summer (April- May): Summers can be very hot, so early morning or evenings can still be done to give a quick visit.
Monsoon (June- September): The green paradise of the fort is formed during the monsoon season. The walls are covered with moss, and the hills are abundant. The trail itself is slippery, though, so extra caution is required. Nature lovers and photographers simply adore this time of the year when they wish to take photos of the fort in its most colourful appearance.
How to Reach Chapora Fort, Goa
Reaching to Chapora Fort Goa is half the adventure. Whether you fly in, ride on the rails, or choose a scenic drive on a scooter, the journey is just as exciting as the destination.
By Air: Goa International Airport (Dabolim) will be the nearest airport to the Chapora Fort in Goa. It is located 45 km away.From here you will hire a taxi to reach Chapora Fort.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is the Thivim Railway Station, which is only 18 km away. Further you can take a taxi or bus to reach the fort.
By road from Panjim: It's only 22 km away from Panjim. You may hire a taxi, rent a scooter or even take the local bus and enjoy the scenic journey enroute.
Things to Do in Chapora Fort
The fort might be ruined, but the experience in this place is invaluable. Here's what you can enjoy:
1. Catch the Sunset
One of the most beautiful sunset locations in Goa is Chapora Fort. When standing on the laterite walls, you will find that slowly the sun is sinking into the Arabian Sea, and therefore the sky turns to orange, purple, and gold. Some sit back and cherish the stillness, others take dozens of photographs; it is also a moment when time seems to have stopped.
2. Photography
On each side of Chapora Fort is the heaven of photographers. The rough ruins, the sea and beach views make the creative shots seem limitless. Regardless of whether you want to shoot big panoramas, impromptu tourist shots, or want to capture the surrounding views.
3. Explore the Ruins
The fort can be in ruins today, but to walk through it is like going back in time and reading a book. The walls of the stone and the falling bastions and the vantage-points tell tales of fighting and fighting men. Children and history lovers love exploring here and discovering traces of the past beneath its rocky surface.
4. Relax and Breathe
In addition to its history and opinions, Chapora Fort is also a peaceful place. Once up there, several visitors have a quiet place to simply sit and relax. The sound of sea waves below, the soft sea air keeping your face cool, and the broad open sky on top of it all make it a natural stress-buster.
5. Visit Nearby Beaches
The beauty of Chapora Fort does not stop at the wall; it flows into the beaches as well. The best place to engage in water sports or beach shack music is Vagator Beach. The Anjuna Beach on the other side of the road has enough flea market and nightlife atmosphere to keep the shopaholics and partying crowds bouncing. All nearby Chapora fort beaches provide a unique experience, and they are destinations to visit after you visit the Fort.
Places To Visit Near Chapora Fort
There are plenty of other places to visit near the fort. The following are the attractions that can make your trip worthwhile:
Vagator Beach- At the base of the fort, Vagator is characterised by its red cliffs, beach shacks, and vibrant atmosphere. It is the best among all places to visit in goa and to relax after a day of music, food and the ocean.
Anjuna Beach- Anjuna is located a few kilometres (walkable distance) off, and is known to be full of flea markets, trance parties and hippie culture. This is a place to visit when you love shopping and nightlife.
Ozran Beach (Little Vagator)- This is a small and less well-known beach located close to Vagator, but this beach would suit those seeking peace and calm. It is also not crowded with people, so it is perfect to walk with a partner and enjoy a quiet time.
Morjim Beach- This beach, which is known as little Russia because of its high level of Russian visitors, is quiet and it also harbours Olive Ridley Turtles, which nest there. This place is a must for nature lovers.
Chapora River Cruise- Take a boat ride around Chapora River. You will find mangroves, fishing villages and even see dolphins with some luck.
Saturday Night Market, Arpora- It is a colourful marketplace all about food, live music, handicrafts, and clothes. It is the sound of Goan nightlife without the beaches.
Siolim Village- A small Goan village close to the fort, which is full of Portuguese houses and the old St. Anthony Church. It is a visit to the past.
Ashwem Beach- Clean, calm, and non-tourist, Ashwem is ideal for those who prefer to have their moments of quiet meditation at the beach. Here, a lot of yoga retreats are also held.
Mapusa Market- Within a radius of only 10 km, this place ensures that you get to buy Goan spices, cashews, handicrafts, and even souvenirs to carry home.
Baga Beach- Baga is one of the most popular beaches in Goa, filled with water sports, beach clubs, and nightlife. An excellent way to have a day that is energetic and exciting.
Travel Tips for Chapora Fort:
Must carry water bottles and light snacks because there are no shops available at the fort.
Wear comfortable shoes for the rocky uphill climb.
Avoid staying too late in the evening since the area gets deserted.
Use a hat, umbrella, or sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Travel light with just a small backpack of essentials.
Capture photos during sunrise or sunset for the best views.
Respect the ruins and avoid littering or damaging the site.
Combine your fort visit with Vagator Beach for a perfect day out.
Conclusion:
Chapora Fort is not only a historic place, but it is a heritage cum nature cum movie experience. Be it looking out on the vast ocean, climbing the parts of the wall that have already crumbled, or snapping selfies that are Instagram worthy, this fort will remain a place you will remember for the rest of your life. The next time you visit Goa, you should not only stick to the beaches and the party scene. Include Chapora Fort Goa, on your list and allow its history, views and vibe to transport you far back into time. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your visit to this amazing location now.
