Chapora Fort

Fort · Thivim, Goa

A hilltop fort above Vagator beach in North Goa, with ruined laterite walls and wide views of the Chapora river and the sea.

Chapora Fort sits on a hill between Vagator beach and the mouth of the Chapora river. The present walls were built by the Portuguese in the early eighteenth century on the site of an older fort, to watch the river and the northern border of their territory.

Little remains inside the walls today, but the views are the reason most people climb up: the river winding inland on one side, the curve of Vagator and Morjim beaches on the other, and the open sea in front. It is especially popular at sunset.

The climb from the road is short but steep and uneven, on loose laterite, so wear shoes with a good grip. There is little shade at the top.

Best time to visit

November to March; late afternoon for the sunset.

How to reach

Above Vagator in Bardez, North Goa. Nearest Konkan Railway station: Thivim, then by road via Mapusa.

Places nearby

Fort Aguada