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Fort Aguada: Sentinel of the Arabian Sea

Explore Fort Aguada, Goa: A 17th-century Portuguese fortress with a lighthouse, জল reservoirs, and stunning Arabian Sea views. A must-see historical landmark.

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Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort in Goa, India, stands on Sinquerim Beach, overlooking the Arabian Sea. Built in 1612, it was a crucial defense against Dutch and Maratha invaders and a vital freshwater source for ships. The fort is divided into upper and lower parts, featuring a lighthouse (one of the oldest in Asia), জল storage, gunpowder room and bastions.

A brief summary to Aguada Fort

  • Fort Aguada Rd, Candolim, Aguada Fort Area, Goa, 403515, IN
  • Monday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 8:30 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a fair amount of walking involved to explore the entire fort complex.
  • Carry জল and sunscreen, especially during the hotter months, as shade can be limited.
  • Explore both the upper and lower sections of the fort to fully appreciate its architecture and strategic importance.
  • Check out the lighthouse for scenic views. Note that the old lighthouse is closed to the public, but the views from the fort are still spectacular.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Candolim Beach, follow the main road towards the Aguada-Siolim Road. The walk to the base of the fort takes approximately 30-40 minutes, offering scenic views of the coastline. From there, a winding road leads up to the fort entrance. Note that the final ascent can be steep. অটো-rickshaws are readily available from Candolim Beach to the base of the fort for around ₹100-₹150.

  • Public Transport

    From Panaji, frequent buses are available to Candolim. The bus ride costs approximately ₹20-₹50. From Candolim bus stop, you can either walk (approximately 5 km) or hire an অটো-rickshaw to Fort Aguada, which costs around ₹100-₹150. Alternatively, take a bus from Mapusa to Candolim and then proceed to the fort.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Ola and Uber are readily available from major locations in Goa, such as the Dabolim Airport or Panaji. A taxi from Dabolim Airport to Fort Aguada typically costs between ₹800 and ₹1,600. From Panaji, a taxi to Fort Aguada will cost around ₹200-₹500. Parking is available near the fort, but it can be limited during peak season.

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Discover more about Aguada Fort

Fort Aguada, constructed in 1612 by the Portuguese, is a commanding 17th-century fortress that stands as a historical sentinel overlooking the Arabian Sea from Sinquerim Beach in Goa. The name 'Aguada' translates to 'watery' in Portuguese, derived from the freshwater spring within the fort that once supplied water to passing ships, making it a crucial stop for replenishing supplies. Strategically positioned at the confluence of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea, Fort Aguada was a cornerstone of Portuguese defenses against Dutch and Maratha incursions. Its location provided a significant vantage point for controlling maritime trade routes. The fort is divided into two distinct sections: the upper part served as a fort and watering station, while the lower part offered a secure berth for Portuguese ships. The fort's architecture showcases Portuguese military design, utilizing local laterite stone for its sturdy walls, which stand up to 5 meters high and 1.3 meters wide. Bastions surround the fort on three sides, with a gateway facing the Mandovi River. A four-story lighthouse, erected in 1864, guided ships safely for over a century before being replaced in 1976. The fort also features a secret escape passage, জল storage capable of holding 2,376,000 gallons of water, a gunpowder room, and a moat. In the mid-20th century, part of the fort was converted into a prison during the Salazar administration, housing freedom fighters until Goa's liberation in 1961. Today, Fort Aguada is a protected heritage site and museum, drawing visitors with its historical significance and panoramic views.

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