Colvale Fort

About Colvale Fort

Colvale Fort, also called Fortaleza de São Sebastião de Colvale, was built in 1635 by D. Miguel de Noronha, the Viceroy of Portuguese India. In 1681, extra fortifications were added to strengthen its defenses and protect the northern borders of Bardez. However, over time, much of the fort has disappeared.

The fort witnessed major battles in the 1700s. The Marathas captured it in 1739, but the Portuguese took it back in 1741. By the mid-1800s, when Portuguese forces were stationed in Mapusa, the fort was left neglected and eventually fell into ruin.

For history enthusiasts and architecture lovers, Colvale Fort is an interesting place to visit. Often called Tivim Fort, it stands on the banks of the Bardez River. Known as one of Goa’s most ruined forts, it still attracts visitors curious about its past and the stories it holds.

Fort Colvale Goa Address

Colvale Fort in Goa, India, is a notable tourist attraction known for its peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Situated along the Bardez River, this historic fort lies on India’s west coast in northern Goa.

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

1. Address: JVM2+X6H, Tivim, North Goa, Goa
2. Pin Code: 402502

Colvale Fort History

Colvale Fort is one of the oldest historical sites in Goa. Originally constructed in 1681 during the rule of the Alvor lords, it has a rich history. In the mid-seventeenth century, the Marathas took over the fort, but in 1741, the Marquis of Lourical recaptured it. For some time, the fort served as a residence for the Maratha royal family and the Marquis of Lourical.

During conflicts, Maratha troops used the fort as a base camp. However, by 1841, it was closed off from any official use and gradually fell into disrepair. Today, only a few parts of the fort remain, but these ruins continue to attract tourists. Built to protect Bardez from invaders, the fort’s location, away from busy city life, offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for visitors.

The architecture of Fort Colvale

The architecture of Colvale Fort in India reflects both Portuguese and Hindu influences. When the Marathas occupied the fort, they modified parts of it to include local architectural styles. Although much of the structure has been lost over time, its historical value remains appreciated. With abundant trees around, the fort is known for its peaceful atmosphere.

Constructed with brick, stone, and mud, Colvale Fort is quite large, featuring open spaces and thick outer walls. These walls were essential for defense, helping the Portuguese and Marathas keep enemies out. Inside the fort, there were originally bastions and cannons belonging to the Portuguese and Maratha rulers. However, since most of the fort has deteriorated, only a few traces of these original features remain.

Essential Colvale Fort Information

How to reach Fort Colvale

Colvale Fort is a popular spot to visit in Goa, especially if you’re interested in history & ancient architecture.

It’s easily accessible from major cities across India, and you have several travel options, including flights, buses, cars, & trains. This makes it convenient for travelers to explore this historical gem.

How to reach Fort Colvale By Air

The distance from Goa Airport to Colvale Fort is around 48 km, which takes about 1 hour & 21 minutes by road. For transportation, you can easily find options like rental cars, auto-rickshaws, buses, & taxis right outside the airport, making travel in Goa convenient & accessible.

How to reach Fort Colvale By Road

How to reach Fort Colvale By Rail

How to reach Fort Colvale From Panaji

Colvale Fort is about 24.1 km away from Panaji, the capital city of Goa, & it takes approximately 50 minutes to get there. You can choose from various transportation options to reach the fort from Panaji. Auto-rickshaws & buses are convenient & readily available. If you prefer, you can also drive your car to the fort.

Best time to visit Fort Colvale

Colvale Fort has a mild climate all year due to its coastal location, making it a pleasant spot to visit. Here’s what to expect each season:

1. Winter (October to March): This is the most popular time to visit Colvale Fort. The weather is cool and sometimes a bit warm, creating a comfortable setting for sightseeing. Winter is ideal for enjoying the fort and its surroundings.
2. Summer (April to June): You can also visit in summer when temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. It’s warm but still pleasant, making it a nice time to explore with family and friends.
3. Monsoon (June to August): Heavy rain falls during this season, with temperatures between 28°C and 30°C. If you enjoy lush, rainy scenery, this is a great time to see the fort’s natural beauty.

Places near Colvale Fort

1. St. Anthony’s Chapel – St. Anthony’s Chapel was built in the 17th century and is located south of the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, near the ruins of St. Augustine’s Church. This chapel is dedicated to St. Anthony, the patron saint of the Portuguese army and navy. It was one of the first churches established in Goa by Alfonso de Albuquerque.
   Distance from Colvale Fort: 19.6 km
2. Hanuman Temple – Hanuman Temple was constructed in the 1840s on a site where people secretly worshipped God Hanuman during the strict Portuguese rule. After the Portuguese destroyed the temples, devotees displayed a portrait of Hanuman at a fireworks shop.
   Distance from Colvale Fort: 19.1 km
3. Corjuem Fort – Corjuem Fort offers stunning views of the rivers and the surrounding landscape. Built on the river island of Corjuem, it was used by the Portuguese for defense. The fort features several cannons and lookout holes. You can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the area.
   Distance from Colvale Fort: 10.7 km
4. Mapusa Municipal Market – Mapusa Municipal Market is famous for its spices, marinated pork sausages, homemade chouriço, and cashew nut shops. You can also find many stores selling fenny, seedless tamarind, pickles, vegetables, coir mats, and ropes.
   Distance from Colvale Fort: 9.3 km

• 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

1. Masala House Goa
2. Spice Goa
3. Gunpowder
4. Big Peckers
5. Ciao Bella

Hotel & Resorts to Stay Near Colvale Fort

1. Virat Square Garden
2. The Royale Assagao
3. Dhaklos Guest House
4. 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

Faqs

Q. How can I find cheap flights to Goa?

A: To get cheap flights to Goa, it’s a good idea to book your air or train tickets in advance. There are also buses that connect to nearby cities, so you can choose the best travel option for you.

Q. What is the closest and most popular beach to Colvale Fort in Goa?

A: The closest and most popular beach near Colvale Fort is Chapora Beach, which is about 18.2 km away. It takes around 40 minutes to get there.

Q. What is the distance from Dudhsagar Waterfall to Colvale Fort?

A: Dudhsagar Waterfall is approximately 75.3 km from Colvale Fort. It takes about 2 hours and 9 minutes to get there. You can hire a taxi or drive your car to visit the waterfall.

Q. How many days should I spend to explore this area?

A: You will need at least three days to explore Colvale Fort and other top tourist spots in Goa.

Q. Can you recommend any vegetarian restaurants near Colvale Fort?

A: Some well-known vegetarian restaurants near Colvale Fort include Shree Udupi Pure Veg Family Restaurant, Hotel Pratibha, Udupi Anand Sagar Vegetarian Restaurant, and Jiza Family Restaurant and Bar.