Goa is best known for its beaches and carnivals. It is a once-in-a-lifetime vacation destination for every Indian. But what makes it even more beautiful is its picturesque locations that have Portuguese influence.
Within the Therakol village of North Goa lies the Fort Tiracol. It is situated on the river Tiracol and is known to be the best-preserved and most visited ancient fort of Goa. Still preserving its rich history, this fort has now been converted into a luxury hotel.
History of Fort Tiracol
This fort was built by the Maharaja of Sawantwadi, Khem Sawant Bhosle, in the 17th Century. After it got revamped in 1746, it served as an essential military bastion and a line of defence for the Portuguese colony in Goa.
During the Portuguese civil war in 1895, Dr Bernardo Peres da Silva used it as a rebel stronghold. But it was later returned to the empire. It also served as an essential site for the satyagraha marches during Goa’s freedom struggle from Portuguese rule. It finally got its independence in 1961.
Structure of fort Tiracol
Fort Tiracol has always been well-equipped with arms during the reign of Maharaja of Sawantwadi. It had 12 guns, a barrack, and a chapel during Portugal’s rule. This fort is built using granite stones and lime mortars. It also has a church within its premises built by de Almedia when he conquered Goa. Located on a hilltop, it provides a bird’s eye view of the Querem and Kalacha beaches.
Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel
Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel is a luxury beach resort in Goa. Surrounded by beautiful views, it provides you with a mix of luxury and history. It has Portuguese and contemporary interiors with a limited number of rooms. Its seven newly renovated rooms and suites are named based on the day of the week. The suites are named Friday and Sunday, and the rooms are named Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. It also has a restaurant, bar, lounge, and verandas.
Location
Terekhol Village, PernemTaluka, Goa – 403524
Timings
Fort Tiracol is open daily from 9.00 AM to 7.00 PM for the general public.
Entry Fee
There is no entry fee to enter this fort.
How To Reach Fort Tiracol?
It is located approximately 40 Km from Panjim, the capital city of Goa. From there, you need to take a ferry to reach the fort. You can reach Panjim in the following ways:
By Air
The Dabolim Airport is a major domestic and international airport in Goa. Flights from all major national and international cities land here. It is located at a distance of about 26 Km from Panjim.
By Train
There are two main railway stations in Goa: Vasco da Gama and Madgaon. You can take the train to these stations from any country’s major state. The Vasco da Gama station is located approximately 29 Km from Panjim, while the Madgaon railway station is approximately 38 Km from Panjim.
By Road
Goa is well connected with buses from neighbouring cities of Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore. You can also take the NH 4 route to reach Goa from Bangalore and Mumbai. For those driving from Mangalore, NH 17 is the best route.
Places to visit near Fort Tiracol
Some of the places that you can visit near the Fort Tiracol are:
- Arambol Beach
- Chapel of Our Lady Carmin
- Querim Beach
