Colvale Fort

Posted on Wednesday, October 30th, 2024 by Neha Sharma

About Colvale Fort

Colvale Fort is also well-known as O Fortaleza de São Sebastião de Colvale. This fort was built in 1635 on the order of D. Miguel de Noronha, conde de Linhares, Viceroy of the Portuguese State of India. Moreover, its fortifications were built to safeguard the northern borders of Bardez taluka in 1681. But now, it has largely vanished.

Its most famous fights took place in the mid-eighteenth century. The Marathas took it in 1739, but the Portuguese reclaimed it in 1741. However, when Portuguese troops arrived in Mapusa a century later, the fort was neglected by them.

If you’re a history enthusiast or enjoy exploring old architecture, then the fort is a must-see. The Colvale Fort Goa is also a renowned tourist attraction. It creates curiosity in archaeology among the visitors. Tivim Fort is another name for the fort, which stands on the banks of the Bardez River. Colvale fort is also known for being one of Goa’s most destroyed forts, attracting many visitors.

Fort Colvale Goa Address: Fort Colvale Goa India is one of the important tourist attractions. It offers a pleasant and relaxing environment. It is located near the Bardez River. On the west coast of India and in the northern region of Goa, this fort can be found.

Want to know if tourism in Goa is open? The answer is YES. For further insights, get in touch with us today!

Address: JVM2+X6H, Tivim, North Goa, Goa 402502

Colvale Fort History

The fort is one of Goa’s oldest historical structures. It was built principally in 1681, during the reign of the Alvor lords of Goa. However, later history indicates that the Marathas conquered the fort in the mid-seventeenth century. After some time, the fort was regained by the Marquis of Lourical in 1741. For a period of time, it was used as a house for the royal families of the Marathas and Marquis of Lourical.

During times of crisis or conflict, the fort was also utilised as a base camp for Marathas troops. However, by 1841, the fort had been restricted from all purposes. It has deteriorated over the years due to a lack of proper management. There are barely a few remains of the fort that continue to draw tourists. According to historical documents, the fort was built with the goal of protecting the Bardez from the enemy. Because the location is away from the city’s crowds, it provides a relaxing and peaceful ambience.

The architecture of Fort Colvale

The architecture of Fort Colvale India influenced the Portuguese and Hindu people. During the Marathas’ stay in this fort, they redesigned several elements of the monument in accordance with local architectural styles. Despite the fact that most of the fort has been destroyed, its structural significance is still being appreciated. The fort has a lot of trees, which makes it a relaxing location in terms of the surroundings.

Brick and stone, as well as mud, were used to construct the fort. The Colvale Goa Fort is regarded to be quite large, with many open spaces. The fort’s exterior end includes thick walls that were vital to the Portuguese and Marathas. During their dominance, they could prevent opponents from accessing the fort. The interior of the fort is thought to have the Marathas’ and Portuguese monarchs’ bastions and cannons. But as most of the fort has been destroyed today, there are fewer traces left for the same.

Essential Colvale Fort Information

How to reach Fort Colvale

Colvale Fort is one of the popular forts to explore in Goa. If you love exploring historical places, and ancient architecture, it is one of the most recommended places for you.

The place is accessible from all the major cities in India, and you can choose to travel via various commuting modes. The popular choices are by air, bus, car, and rail.

How to reach Fort Colvale By Air

The total distance from Goa airport to Fort Colvale is approximately 48.0 km. Moreover, it will take about 1 hour and 21 minutes to cover this distance.

You can get a rented car, auto-rickshaw, bus, or taxi from outside the airport. Transport facilities are more convenient in Goa.

How to reach Fort Colvale By Road

All the routes to Fort Colvale Goa India are well connected and well maintained. You can either drive your own car, or you can hire a cab. Other than this, you can also reach the location by bus. Busses are an affordable mode of transportation. They can be easily booked online also.

How to reach Fort Colvale By Rail

Thivim is the nearest railway station to Colvale Fort. It covers a distance of 3.8 km approximately. This distance will take 9 minutes to cover this distance. From outside the railway station, you can also hire a can or auto-rickshaw or a taxi. These facilities are well maintained in this city. Aside, the railway stations are connected to major cities including Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, and many others.

How to reach Fort Colvale From Panaji

Colvale Fort is located at a distance of 24.1 km from the capital city of Goa, Panaji. It will take about 50 minutes to cover this distance. You can take any mode of transportation to reach the Colvale Fort from Panaji. Auto rickshaw or bus services are more convenient to travel from Panaji to the Fort location. Also, they are easily available. If you want you can also drive your own car to the Fort location.

Best time to visit Fort Colvale

Colva’s Fort climate is mild all year due to its location on the shore. It’s climate makes this place all the more pleasant. Visit in the evenings to see beautiful sunsets or migratory bird sights.

• Winter Season: Most people visit this fort from October to March. The temperature is frizzy and sometimes warm. Therefore, this season makes it the best time to visit here during these months.
• Summer Season: If you want then you can also travel during summer season. Temperature is warm ranging from 20 degrees to 30 degrees. It is also a great time to visit with family and friends. 
• Monsoon Season: During the months of June and August, it receives a heavy rainfall. Moreover, the temperature is between 28 degrees to 30 degrees. If you love to see beautiful views at the time of rainfall, then visit during these months.

Places near Colvale Fort

1. St Anthony’s Chapel: St. Anthony’s Chapel was established in the 17th century. This is located south of the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary and across from the ruins of St. Augustine’s Church. It is dedicated to St. Anthony, the Portuguese army and navy’s patron saint. Alfonso de Albuquerque also built it as one of the first churches in Goa.
   Distance from Colvale Fort: 19.6 km 
2. Hanuman Temple: Hanuman Temple was constructed in the 1840s on the place where the God Hanuman was secretly worshipped. They worship here throughout the years of harsh Portuguese rule. Devotees hung a portrait of Hanuman at the fireworks shop after the Portuguese destroyed the temples.
   Distance from Colvale Fort: 19.1 km. 
3. Corjuem Fort: A visit to the Corjuem Fort ensures breathtaking views of the rivers and surrounding areas. The fort, which was built on the river island of Corjuem, was utilised by the Portuguese for defence. There are multiple cannons and holes in the fort. Climb to the top of the fort for a panoramic view of the surrounding area. 
   Distance from Colvale Fort: 10.7 km
4. Mapusa Municipal Market: This market is popular for spices, marinated pork sausages, strings of Goan homemade chouriço, and cashew nut shops. You can also see many fenny stores which sell many popular items at the market. There are also seedless tamarind, pickles, veggies, coir mats, and ropes for sale.
   Distance from Colvale Fort: 9.3 km

Other Popular Forts in Goa

Here are the best Forts in Goa that you can explore after your visit to Colvale fort. While some forts are known for their history, others for their vastness Whatever fort you choose, be sure to make the most of your tourism. 

Places to Eat Near Colvale Fort

• Masala House Goa
• Spice Goa
• Gunpowder
• Big Peckers
• Ciao Bella

Hotel & Resorts to Stay Near Colvale Fort

• Virat Square Garden
• The Royale Assagao
• Dhaklos Guest House
• Bella Pensao

Book Goa Tour Packages

Pepped up to book a Goa Tour Package already? We thought so! Whether you’re looking for a Goa tour package for family or Goa cruise package, we have them all. All you have to do is get in touch with us so we can share the best quotes with you. 

Distance From Colvale Fort To Other Forts

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I get cheap flights to Goa?

A: You can book your air, or rail tickets in advance to acquire cheap flights to Goa. The buses are so connected to nearby cities. So, you can choose to travel accordingly.

Q: Is Goa a tourist-friendly city?

A: Goa tops the Indian Tourism chart as it is one of the most-visited cities by tourists.

Q: Which is the most famous beach near Colvale Fort Goa?

A: Chapora Beach is the nearest and famous beach to Colvale Fort Goa. It covers a distance of 18.2 km. Moreover, it will take about 40 minutes to cover this distance.

Q: What is the distance from Dudhsagar to Colvale Fort?

A: The distance from Dudhsagar Waterfall to Colvale Fort is approximately 75.3 km. It will take about 2 hours and 9 minutes to cover this distance. You can hire a cab or taxi or can drive your own car to reach the waterfall location.

Q: How many days are enough to explore this place?

A: Minimum of three days are required to explore this place and other top-tourist locations in Goa.

Q: Suggest any vegetarian restaurant near the Colvale Fort?

A: Shree Udupi Pure Veg Family Restaurant, Hotel Pratibha, Udupi Anand Sagar Vegetarian Restaurant, and Jiza Family Restaurant and Bar. These are the famous vegetarian restaurants near the Colvale Fort.