Overview of Cabo de Rama Fort Goa, India
Cabo de Rama Fort is a popular tourist attraction located in South Goa, India. It is situated on the Goan coastline and is known for its rich history and stunning views of the Arabian Sea. The fort is named after Lord Rama, who is believed to have spent time here during his 14-year exile.
The fort was originally built by local rulers and was later taken over by the Portuguese in the 18th century. The present structure is a remnant of the Portuguese era and includes walls, moats, ramparts, turrets, a chapel, and cannons. The Portuguese equipped the fort with 21 cannons and the embrasures to hold the same.
The fort covers an impressive 180,000 square meters and is built, like most of the other ancient structures of Goa, out of laterite rock. When the Portuguese took over the fort, they constructed military barracks, command posts, and officers’ quarters.
Today, Cabo de Rama Fort is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. The fort is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily, and there is no entry fee. Visitors can explore the fort and take in the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. The fort is also a great spot for photography enthusiasts, who can capture some stunning shots of the fort and the surrounding landscape.
In addition to the fort, visitors can also explore the nearby Cabo de Rama Beach, which is known for its pristine shoreline and crystal-clear waters. The beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Visitors can also indulge in some water sports activities, such as parasailing and jet skiing.
Overall, Cabo de Rama Fort is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Goa. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views make it a popular tourist attraction that is not to be missed.
History of Cabo de Rama Fort
Cabo de Rama Fort is a medieval hillfort located on the coast of Canacona, Goa. The fort has a rich history that dates back to the Hindu era. The fort changed hands several times between Hindu and Muslim rulers before the Portuguese gained control of it in the 1760s. After India gained independence, the fort was used as a government prison until it was abandoned and fell into ruins.
Hindu Era
The fort is named after Lord Rama, the hero of the epic Ramayana. According to legend, Lord Rama and his wife, Goddess Sita, took refuge in the fort during their exile from Ayodhya. The fort was constructed during the reign of a Hindu king and was used as a military base to defend against invading forces.
Muslim Rule
During the Muslim rule, the fort was known as Kalhad fort. It was believed to have been built by Shivaji, a Hindu king of Maratha in 1679. The fort was used as a strategic location for battles and as a prison.
Portuguese Rule
The Portuguese gained control of the fort in the 1760s after the Raja of Soonda surrendered his territory to them in return for protection against Hyder Ali of Mysore. The Portuguese equipped the fort with cannons, military barracks, command posts, and officers’ quarters. They also built the Church of Santo Antonio within the fort. The fort was used as a military base during the Portuguese rule.
Post-Independence
After India gained independence, the fort was used as a government prison until it was abandoned and fell into ruins. Today, the fort is a popular tourist destination and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the ruins of the fort, and the Church of Santo Antonio, and enjoy the scenic views of the cape.
The architecture of Cabo de Rama Fort
Cabo de Rama Fort is a historical fort located in Canacona, South Goa, India. The fort has a captivating architecture that is still worth remembering. It is constructed with Indian Fort Architecture, which is evident in its walls, moats, ramparts, turrets, chapel, and cannons. The Portuguese equipped it with iron bastions, which were added to the fort during their era. The fort’s architecture is a mix of Hindu and Portuguese styles, which is evident in its design and layout.
The fort has a moat surrounding it, which is now dry. The moat was once filled with water, and a bridge was used to cross it. The bridge was made of wood and was removed when the fort was under attack. The fort also has several ponds inside its premises, which were used to collect rainwater.
The bastions of the fort are a significant part of its architecture. The bastions were used to mount cannons and were strategically placed to provide maximum coverage of the fort. The fort has a total of seven bastions, each named after a saint. The bastions are connected by a parapet wall, which provides a walkway for the soldiers to move around the fort.
The fort also has a chapel dedicated to Saint Antonio. The chapel is small yet captivating and is located around the Fortress. The chapel’s architecture is a mix of Hindu and Portuguese styles, which is evident in its design and layout.
In conclusion, Cabo de Rama Fort’s architecture is a mix of Hindu and Portuguese styles, which is evident in its design and layout. The fort’s walls, moats, ramparts, turrets, chapel, and cannons are remnants of the Portuguese era. The bastions of the fort are a significant part of its architecture and were used to mount cannons. The fort’s architecture is a testament to its rich history and cultural heritage.
How to Reach Cabo de Rama Fort
Cabo de Rama Fort is located in the South Goa district of Canacona town. It is situated at a distance of around 25 km from Margao and around 80 km from Panjim. The fort can be easily reached by bus, train, taxi, or auto-rickshaw.
By Bus
One of the easiest ways to reach Cabo de Rama Fort is by bus. Many bus services operate from Margao to Cabo de Rama Fort. The Kadamba Bus Stand in Margao is the starting point for buses to Cabo de Rama Fort. The journey takes around 1.5 hours and the fare is around INR 30 per person.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Cabo de Rama Fort is the Canacona railway station, which is around 12 km away. However, not all trains stop at Canacona station. The other major railway stations near Cabo de Rama Fort are Vasco da Gama Railway Station and Margao Railway Station. From these stations, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Cabo de Rama Fort.
By Air
The nearest airport to Cabo de Rama Fort is the Dabolim Airport, which is around 67 km away. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Cabo de Rama Fort.
By Taxi or Auto-Rickshaw
One can also reach Cabo de Rama Fort by hiring a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from nearby towns like Cavelossim or Palolem. The fare for a taxi or an auto-rickshaw may vary depending on the distance and the time of the day. It is advisable to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
The address of Cabo de Rama Fort is Taluka Cabo da Rama, Canacona, Goa 403702. The fort is located on a cape that is also known by the same name. One can refer to the map to get the exact location of the fort.
Visitor Information
Entry Fee and Timings
Cabo de Rama Fort is a popular tourist attraction in Goa, India. Entry to the fort is free of cost for all visitors. The fort is open to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. every day.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cabo de Rama Fort is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The monsoon season from June to September is not a good time to visit the fort as the area experiences heavy rainfall and the fort remains closed during this season.
Nearby Attractions
There are many places to visit near Cabo de Rama Fort. The St. Antonio Church and Praça do Cabo de Rama are popular tourist attractions located near the fort. Agonda Beach and Colva Beach are also located nearby and are great places to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Food and Accommodation
There are many restaurants and food stalls located near Cabo de Rama Fort where tourists can enjoy local Goan cuisine and seafood. The Red Crab Seafood Restaurant is a popular restaurant located near the fort. There are also many hotels and resorts located near the fort where tourists can stay. The Cape Goa is a popular hotel located near the fort where tourists can book a room or rented accommodation.
Tourists can also book Goa tour packages from the Goa Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. to explore the different places to visit in Goa, including Cabo de Rama Fort. For more information, tourists can visit the official website or call the phone number provided.
Experiences at Cabo de Rama Fort
Cabo de Rama Fort is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the rich history and stunning views of South Goa. The fort is located on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea. Visitors can enjoy a breathtaking sunset view from the fort, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
The fort has a rich history that dates back to the Hindu epic, Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama stayed in this fort during his 14-year exile. Later, the fort was captured by the Portuguese and was used as a military base to protect Goa from invaders. The fort has undergone several renovations over the years and is now a popular tourist attraction.
Visitors can ride up to the fort on a motorcycle or car, and parking is available near the entrance. The entry fee is nominal, and the fort is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. The fort is well-maintained, and visitors can explore the various sections of the fort, including the chapel, barracks, and prison cells.
The fort offers a beautiful and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing South Goa trip. Visitors can enjoy a picnic or simply sit and admire the stunning views of the sea. The fort is claimed to be a good spot for birdwatching, and visitors can spot different species of birds in the fort’s vicinity.
In conclusion, Cabo de Rama Fort is a beautiful and historical landmark that offers a unique experience to visitors. With its stunning views, rich history, and peaceful atmosphere, it is an ideal destination for anyone looking for a memorable trip to South Goa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of Cabo de Rama Fort?
Cabo de Rama Fort is believed to have been built by the Hindu ruler, Soonda, in the 16th century. Later on, the fort was captured by the Portuguese in 1763. The fort was used as a military base by the Portuguese until 1955. Since then, it has been under the control of the Indian government.
What are the entry fees for Cabo de Rama Fort?
There is no entry fee to visit Cabo de Rama Fort. Visitors can explore the fort and enjoy the scenic views without any charges.
What are the timings for Cabo de Rama Fort?
Cabo de Rama Fort is open to visitors every day of the week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Who built Cabo de Rama Fort?
Cabo de Rama Fort is believed to have been built by the Hindu ruler, Soonda, in the 16th century.
Where can I find images of Cabo de Rama Fort?
Images of Cabo de Rama Fort can be found on various travel websites, social media platforms, and image-sharing websites.
What is the location of Cabo de Rama Fort?
Cabo de Rama Fort is located in the Canacona district of Goa, India. It is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Arabian Sea and is approximately 29 kilometers from the city of Margao. The fort is easily accessible by road and can be reached by taxi or private vehicle.
