Fort Tiracol

Tiracol or Terekhol fort is the northernmost point of Goa. It is on the top of a hill, looking down on the Terekhol River, which gives the fort its name. Tiracol is an old 17th-century fort that was constructed by the Maratha King Sawant Bhonsle, but it has changed hands many times. It used to be the first line of defense to protect Goa against attacks from the north. Eventually, it came under Indian rule after a bitter battle with the Portuguese colonists. In its peak, the fort had 12 guns, a chapel, and a military barrack. It has now been converted into a heritage hotel, which has ensured that it is now Goa’s best-preserved historical site.

The fort sits at the confluence of the river and the Arabian Sea on the top of a hotel. You will get fabulous views of the surrounding areas from here. There are many interesting sites close to the fort. There is a small mangrove area you can visit, which is the home of many birds and crocodiles. You can also visit the beaches of north Goa from here, which always have far fewer tourists compared to the Baga-Calangute-Candolim stretch.

You can even visit fort Tiracol even if you don’t plan to stay in the heritage hotel. You can walk on the walls and catch stunning views. You can also enjoy a meal at this 3-star hotel if you like.

Location

Tiracol Fort Location: Tiracol, Pernem, North Goa, India

How To Reach Fort Tiracol

Fort Tiracol is 57.3 kilometers from Panaji. It will take you about 2 hours by road from the Goa International Airport. The north Goa beaches like Arambol, Ashwem, and Anjuna are close. Baga beach is 35.9 kilometers or only an hour away. You can rent a car or bike to reach the fort. However, you will have to cross the ferry at Querim. The ferry operates between 6:30 in the morning and 9:30 in the night. It takes only a few minutes to cross the river.

• Fort Tiracol is 57.3 kilometers from Panaji
• It is 35.9 kilometers north of Baga beach

Alternatively, if you want to arrive by car, then you must take a slight detour and cross the Aronda Bridge. Turn left after crossing the bridge. You can also take the train to reach Fort Tiracol. Parnem is the closest rail station. It is only 14.38 kilometers away.

You can easily stay for a few nights at this fort-heritage hotel. It will be a very nice relaxing vacation by the sea. You can also explore the surrounding areas and visit some of the beaches in north Goa, which are close.

History Of The Tiracol Fort

Tiracol Fort in Goa

The fort was erected by the Bhonsle king of Sawantwadi during the 17^th century. Tiracol stands on top of a small hill beside the river. It is one of the smallest forts in India, more of an outpost, erected to look over the surrounding areas and guard the naval fleet of the king down in the river.

The hilltop location beside the sea and river provided a panoramic view. 12 guns were installed to apprehend approaching enemies. There was also a military barrack.

However, its unique location soon caught the attention of the Portuguese. The 44^th Viceroy of Goa attacked Tiracol through the sea in 1746. It eventually fell after a week on November 23 ^rd 1746. After taking control, the Portuguese revamped the Tiracol in 1764. Its importance grew subsequently.

Terekhol in local language means the ‘deep and steep bank of a river’. Many believe that all the forts in Goa were once connected through an underground tunnel. But this tunnel is yet to be discovered.

Tiracol Fort – Timeline

• 17^th century – Erected by the Hindu Sawantwadi king Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle.
• 1746 – The Viceroy of Goa attacks Tiracol and conquers it.
• 1764 – Extensively revamped and upgraded by the Portuguese.
• 1819 – Khem Sawant Bhonsle signs a treaty with the British. Control of the surrounding areas handed over. Importance of the fort diminishes.
• 1825 – Turned into a rebel stronghold during the Portuguese Civil War. The entire garrison was beheaded.
• 1954 – Satyagrahis or freedom fighters enter Tiracol protesting against Portuguese rule. The Indian flag was hoisted and flew for a day before the protestors were captured and imprisoned.
• 1961 – End of Portuguese rule. Tiracol fort passes into Indian hands.
• 1976 – Turned into a heritage hotel.

Tiracol Fort – Quick Facts

Tiracol Fort During The Portuguese Civil War

It played an important part during the Portuguese Civil War. In 1825, it used to be a rebel stronghold. Dr. Bernardo Peres da Silva, who was the first Viceroy born in Goa led the revolts. Portuguese rulers beheaded the entire garrison, placed the heads on stakes to display as an example of what would happen if there was a revolt. The construction also suffered a lot of damage.

During Goa’s Freedom Struggle

India became an independent country in 1947, but Goa continued to remain under Portuguese rule. The locals were demanding the end of Portuguese control and annexing to India. On 15^th August 1955, freedom fighters entered the fort and raised the Indian flag. Three of them died while raising the flag. Fresh troupes were sent and the Portuguese again regained control a day later.

The Hotel

Fort Tiracol has been completely renovated and turned into a heritage hotel. It is operated by AM Hotel, which has several other properties in India. This fort hotel has only seven luxury suites and rooms, so it never becomes very crowded. Each room has a mix of contemporary and colonial Portuguese décor. They are named after the days of the week. Friday and Sunday are the suites. The Tavern is the hotel’s bar, verandah, and dining area.

Top 6 Reasons For Visiting The Tiracol Fort

1. For panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Terekhol River.
2. For a nice, relaxing vacation. There are few tourists here, but it is still very accessible. It is only half an hour from Arambol beach.
3. There are many beautiful and secluded beaches in the area you can visit.
4. To have lunch at the hotel’s tavern overlooking the Arabian Sea.
5. Learn about the rich history of Goa.
6. To visit a chapel and see its 100 year old wooden interiors.