About Fort Aguada

Posted on Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024 by Sidakbir Singh

About Fort Aguada (Sinquerim Fort)

Fort Aguada, a well-preserved Portuguese fort that was built in the 17th century. Along with the lighthouse, it is the most visited place in Goa, India. At Sinquerim Beach, Aguada Fort offers its visitors the view of the confluence of the Arabian Sea and the Mandovi River. Aguada Fort or Sinquerim Fort is one of the most interesting and scenic forts in Goa, which is loved by travellers for its historical structure.

It is an ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) protected monument in Goa, located at a distance of about 15 km from Panaji (Panjim), the capital of Goa. The name of this enchanting fort is derived from the Portuguese word ‘agua’ which means ‘water’ and the place is a source of freshwater for the sailors.

Fort Aguada itself gives an unforgettable feeling of antiquity and age-old grandeur. The stone walls of the old building lead directly to the sea. Located in Candolim, this beautiful fort remains the centre of tourist attraction. Along with its splendid architecture, it offers breathtaking views, due to which it is on the list of great places to visit in India. Visit this place in the evening as the sunset from the fort represents pleasant and wonderful views!

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Fort Aguada Address: Aguada Fort, the largest and most impressive fort on a hilltop that defines the Portuguese stronghold in Goa. On the banks of river Mandovi, this fort is situated at a distance of 4.2 km (approx) from Candolim, Goa.

Address: Fort Aguada Rd, Aguada Fort Area, Candolim, Goa 403515

History of Fort Aguada

The Aguada Fort was designed by Julio Simo in the late 17th century. This magnificent architecture was built by the Portuguese rulers under the supervision of the Viceroy Ruy Tavara. Built in 1612, it was known for its 79 cannons. It has a water storage capacity of 2,376,000 gallons, making it one of the largest freshwater storages in Asia in ancient times.

This fort was built with the aim of protecting the Portuguese from the Dutch and Marathas in Goa. It was a reference point for ships arriving from Europe and used to supply fresh water to the crew of ships passing at sea.

The Architecture of Fort Aguada

This Portuguese military style of architecture was made of laterite stone, which beautifully represents its glorious existence. With a height of 5 meters and a thickness of 1.3 meters, the fort walls are an outstanding example of Italian design.

Fort Aguada is divided into two sections: the lower part acts as a safe berth for ships and the upper part of the place is a fort. It has a freshwater spring, citadel, moat, gunpowder room, lighthouse. There is a secret escape route in the upper part of the fort which was used in war and emergencies.

Fort Aguada Lighthouse

The Aguada Fort has several stories and the lighthouse in the upper part equally contributes to its existence and history. The beautiful four-storey Portuguese lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in Asia. Situated between the Mormugao Peninsula and Calangute Beach, It was built in 1864 to the west of the hilltop which was renovated and modernized again in 1976.

Fort Aguada Jail

One of the largest jails of Goa, built in 1612, is a preserved representation of the power of the Portuguese rulers. This important location was used during the administration of Salazar, the 100th Prime Minister of Portugal. The Aguada Fort Jail was operational till 2015 and now the Goa government and tourism department converted it into a heritage site and museum for tourists.

Essential Information

How to reach Fort Aguada

Situated on the Aguada-Siolim road in Sinquerim, Goa, this fort is a historical sight along with its beauty. There are many options available to reach the hilltop fort, you can hire a cab or taxi, or take a bus from your location.

How to reach Fort Aguada By Air

The nearest airport from Aguada Fort is Goa International Airport at Dabolim which is located at a distance of about 44 km. Dabolim Airport offers several flights for both domestic and international routes. It has 2 terminals where Terminal 1 is used for domestic flights and Terminal 2 is dedicated for international flights.

If you have booked a flight to Goa and want to visit Aguada Fort, you can hire a taxi or cab as per your convenience. Also, if you are looking for cheap services available at the airport then you can take a bus to Aguada Fort.

Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (Dabolim Airport)

Address: Airport Rd, Dabolim, Goa 403801

How to reach Fort Aguada By Road

Aguada Fort can be reached by road from Panaji which is about 15 km from the capital of Goa. If you are planning to visit the beautiful structure known as Aguada Fort, you can choose the roadways with the help of taxis/cab, rental bike or travel by your own vehicle.

Follow the winding Siolim Road and Fort Aguada Road to reach the top of the hill, it will take approx 40 minutes to reach the Fort via road from Panjim. For the cheapest journey, you can take a bus to Candolim from Panaji Bus Stand as many buses are easily available here (Distance from Candolim to Aguada Fort is around 5 km).

How to reach Fort Aguada By Rail

The nearest railway station from Fort Aguada is Karmali Railway Station, which is located at a distance of 26.1 km (approx.). The railway station is connected to different parts of the country by rail. You will find several trains to Karmali from your location or to other nearest railway stations in Goa. After arrival, you can take an auto or cab/taxi or bus to visit and explore the beauty of Aguada Fort.

How To Reach Fort Aguada From Panaji (Panjim)

Fort Aguada is located on a pristine beach in the village of Sinquerim, near Candolim, Goa. It takes about 40 minutes to reach this beautiful place at a distance of 17 km from the state capital Panaji (Panjim). To reach the top of the hill, you can ride a bike or drive a car, else take a bus from Panaji to reach here.

Best time to visit Fort Aguada

The amazing view of the sunset mixed with the water from the highest point of the lighthouse is mesmerizing which will definitely add fun to your trip. This splendid design overwhelms the view of the fort and you will find a wonderful climate whenever you visit! 

• Mild Winter – Winter starts from November or December and lasts till February. Ideal climate to relax on the beach and admire the beauty of the fort without freezing.
• Hot Summer – Lasts from April to June and the climate becomes scorching due to the temperature being around 40 degrees Celsius. Summers are a great time to enjoy the beautiful view of sunrise and sunset at Aguada Fort.
• Strong Monsoon – Being in June to mid-September – Monsoon is considered to be the best season to discover the natural beauty around the fort. The temperatures during the rainy season make it easy for visitors to enjoy the outside overnight.

Places to visit near Fort Aguada

1. Sinquerim Beach: Within a minimum distance of 3.2 km, it provides various types of water sports activities such as windsurfing, fishing, water skiing, diving etc. In addition, you can enjoy the magnificent beach and the scenic beauty with spiritual benefits, including yoga, exercise and meditation at the Sinquerim Beach.
2. Calizz: At 400 meters, it is also known as the “Heart of Goa”, it is popular for fundamentalists and history. It is a museum of Goa that has shown the life of Goon for a long time. If you are visiting Aguada Fort then don’t forget to add this excellent location to your list!
3. Chaku Arts and Crafts: Chaku Arts and Crafts are at a distance of 4.8 km from Aguada Fort. This place is known for its wonderful gifts and crafts. Here, you will find walnut wood carvings on hand-carved furniture and souvenirs.
4. Candolim Beach: Candolim Beach is a wonderful beach that has spread to Papora Beach from Fort. This beautiful beach presents garden views of the hilltop fort, picturesque churches and historic forts, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Goa.
5. St. Lawrence Church: Located atop the Sinquerim hill, representing a beautiful view of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea, St. Lawrence Church was built in 1630. The church was built by the Portuguese, also known as São Lourenço Igreja em Sinquerim. It will take around 850 meters to reach the most magnificent fort from the Church.
6. Devil’s Finger Cave: Devil’s finger cave is a popular spot for a picnic or a day trip while resting in the lap of nature. Also famous as Kaurati Caves, this location is 3.7 km away from Fort Aguada which will provide you with a majestic view of natural beauty and a peaceful environment.

Other Popular Forts in Goa

Here are the popular forts in Goa that you can explore after your visit to Aguada fort. While some forts are known for their architecture, others for their marble. Whatever fort you choose, be sure to make the most of your tourism.

Places to Eat Near Aguada Fort

• Cohiba Bar & Kitchen
• Banyan Tree Restaurant
• Himalaya Bar And Restaurant
• Kokum Kitchen
• Wok & Roll Restaurant
• Morisco Restaurant
• SFX Lounge Bar
• Caravela Restaurant

Hotel & Resorts to Stay Near Aguada Fort

• O Hotel Goa – Candolim
• Aurita Holiday Homes
• Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa, Goa
• Bougainvillea Guest House Goa
• Taj Holiday Village Resort and Spa, Goa
• Taj Holiday Village Resort and Spa, Goa
• Taj Vivanta

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Distance From Aguada Fort To Other Forts