Chapora Fort Goa | Dil Chahta Hai Fort | Timing, location, how to reach, when to go

Chapora fort is one of the many offbeat locations in Goa made famous by the Bollywood movies. So much so that the name “Chapora Fort” immediately reminds one of the scene from the movie “Dil Chahta Hai” where 3 friends spend quiet time together and build countless memories here. Until then, I am sure it was one of the hidden gems, the lesser known unexplored places in Goa. Nevertheless, this time during our visit in Goa, we also thought to explore the Chapora Fort. So, after spending a wonderful morning exploring the Chapora Fort Goa, here I am, ready to provide you with all the details you might want to look at when visiting here.

What is Chapora Fort famous for

To be honest, Chapora Fort gained its fair share of popularity after the movie “Dil Chahta Hai” , a story about 3 friends and their intertwining lives. After this movie, youngsters in particular started relating to this location. Where the three friends in the movie used to spend time together. And after the movie was a blockbuster hit, people started flocking to the fort. And discovered that it is a great spot to watch a spectacular sunset over the Arabian Sea from higher up.

History of Chapora Fort Goa

Historically, Chapora Fort has strategic significance. Many rulers have held it for different periods of time. The longest being the reigns of Marathas and Portuguese. The original name of this fort is “Shahpura” fort. Which, the Portuguese apparently found difficult to pronounce. And over a period of time, the name got twisted to “Chapora” as we know it today 🙂 The fort was built in 1612 AD. Then twice besieged by Shivaji’s sons. Finally conquered by Portugueses in 1718 AD. And they ruled from here until the independence of Goa.

Although the fort was built strategically along the natural terrain of the hill. Believing that it will be difficult to conquer. But, the Maratha attacks on the fort proved this notion wrong. And they easily besieged the Chapora Fort. Over the years, nature has reclaimed most parts of the fort. Very little of the original structure remains. But the walls of the fort stand strong. And one can easily walk on these broad walls. Or, sit there and enjoy a spectacular sunset.

Chapora Fort timings or visiting hours

Chapora Fort Goa is open for visitors Monday to Sunday from 9:30am in the morning to 5:30pm in the evening. Although these are official timings. Given the fort is mostly in ruins, one can take the trail and do the climbing anytime. We saw visitors on top of the hill, along the walls of the fort even much later than 5:30pm in the evening.

 

The best time to visit Chapora Fort Goa

Given Goa has a hot climate, almost all through the year. The temperature is slightly on the lower side in the months of December and January. However, even then, it will be difficult to trek all the way to the top of the fort during day time. Early morning hours upto sunrise and late evening hours when the sun starts setting will be the best time to visit Chapora Fort Goa. Also, it is one of the best spots to capture those dramatic sunsets in Goa. So, people generally prefer evenings when visiting Chapora Fort Goa.

 

How to reach Chapora Fort Goa to Vagator Beach

Reaching Chapora Fort from Vagator

We stayed at The Grand Leoney Resort near Vagator beach. The Chapora Fort was at a walkable distance from our hotel. Below is the map that shows a walking trail upto the fort that we took.

 

 

One can also drive along the above road to reach the Chapora Fort. There is a parking area at the end of this road where cars can be parked at a nominal fee.

After parking the car, you walk a little towards the trail to Chapora Fort. Right before the trail starts there is a flea market as well. Where you get the usual Goan stuff like the beach specific garments, hats, bags, some antiques and jewellery etc.

From here starts the trail to climb the fort. This is a well laid out trail. But it can exhaust you if you are not used to it. Till a decade back this trail was not so well laid out. It was rough. And there were no shops and vendors as such seen here. But thanks to the movie “Dil Chahta Hai” which popularised this spot. As a result, now there is a proper path consisting of a total of about 120 stairs for climbing up as well as vendors at the steps selling water, juice and other refreshments and snacks. Plus there is a multitude of folks who visit here every evening!

Stop in between to catch a breathe.

And finally as you reach the top of the hill, enjoy the spectacular views from the top.

On one side is the rewarding ariel view of the Vagator beach and the Arabian sea.

And on the other side is the beautiful Chapora River.

Both the views are equally rewarding.

Trekking to Chapora Fort from Vagator Beach

If you want to reach Chapora Fort from Vagator Beach or the vice versa, we recommend this same path. Come to the Vagator Beach Road from the beach and then take the above path. Or, use the below map:

 

What to expect from Beach Huts in Goa

If you have opted for an economical beach hut, expect a comfortable stay. But don’t expect high class or luxury. Remember, the USP of the beach huts is accessibility to the beach. And in most cases, direct view of the beach from your room. Sun, sand and lots of delicious food & drink is what you find in abundance in the Beach Huts in Goa. We spent most of our time on the beach. First in the beach shack having lunch, then doing different activities on the beach in the evening, relaxing on the sun beds by the beach. And finally having a candle light dinner on the beach post dark. The only time that we really spent in our beach cottage was to freshen up and then finally sleep at night. So, it doesn’t make difference whether you go for a luxurious or an economical beach cottage or beach hut in Goa.

 

How to reach Chapora Fort Goa to Anjuna beach and other North Goa beaches

To reach the other beaches from Chapora Fort, you can drive down via Vagator.

Vagator to Anjuna distance : ~4-5km

Vagator to Baga distance : ~ 10 km

Take your own or a hired vehicle and drive down to Anjuna beach from Chapora Fort or any other North Goa beaches. It will take roughly 20 minutes to reach Anjuna beach, 35 mins to reach Baga beach and so on and so forth.

Is Chapora Fort haunted?

No, Chapora Fort is not a haunted fort or haunted location. Although refrain from staying back here till dark. Because the terrains are not so well defined, you can get lost or fall down, hurting yourself. Also, stray dogs become more active and a bit more violent towards the evening. So, will not recommend walking back from the fort post evening. However, if you are interested, there are many other places in Goa which are believed to be haunted. Including the Dona Paula beach, the abandoned Russian hotel which could never be completed, the Saligao village near Panjim to name a few. Even the NH 17 – the Mumbai Goa Highway – which is one of the most busy roads in India, is also counted in this list 🙂

Is Chapora Fort the only fort in North Goa?

Chapora Fort was one of the most prominent forts of North Goa during it’s prime years. However, the coastline and river fronts of Goa are dotted with other forts as well. Fort Aguada is the most prominent fort located in North Goa. We visited here on our earlier trips when doing a Goa workcation and again when we did this trip from South Goa to North Goa last year. It provides spectacular views over the Mandovi river. Sinquerim Fort located right besides Fort Aguada, Tiracol Fort, Reis Magos Fort and Corjuem Fort are some of the other prominent forts of North Goa. Government has helped revive and restore the glory of some of these forts after recent renovations. Some can as well be rented for functions like destination weddings.

So, when on your next trip to Goa, take some time off the beaches and visit some of these forts of Goa.

 

 

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