CABO DE RAMA FORT

This decrypted structure with towers and rustic cannons was claimed by the Portuguese monarchs. It was a well-equipped fort with 21 guns and several military barracks and a chapel but, when the Portuguese left India, the place was abandoned and, later used as the government prison. Now, the fort is housed only by the ruins but is a popular tourist place in South Goa.

Drive far to the Southern Goa, through the muddy off-track road to arrive at the edge of the Sea and get ready to witness the glory of past - Cabo de Rama fort. The fort is perched between the two famous beaches in South Goa - Cavelossim, and Agonda.

The Hindu rulers and the Portuguese rulers both had hands behind development of this fort. So, this gives you a chance to explore the architecture wonders of various cultures. One path of the fort will take you to the top of it and other to its on-premise church.

There is shining white church built by the Portuguese rulers here and you can take part in a feast hosted annually. Thus, on reaching this heritage site, you will definitely receive an abundance of insight on all that the fort witnessed in the past.

Also, the magnificent fort overlooks the gorgeous Arabian Sea; thus, offers a striking contrast to the ruins of this ancient site. In fact, this fort is popular for presenting the visitors with the best mesmerizing sunset views. No doubt, on touring the ancient monument, you'll return as a vibrant person enriched with the history the fort depicts and gifted by the beauty all around it. So, get ready to enjoy a unique experience here, one that you will never forget.

Highlights

• On Goa's southernmost edge, this fort is perched between two well-known beaches in South Goa; Cavelossim and Agonda.
• Formerly known as 'Cape Rama,' it is supposed to have been named after Rama, Hindu God, who sought refuge here along with his wife Sita during his exile from Ayodhya.
• An architectural marvel, this fort showcases a beautiful amalgam of different cultures and traditions. Hindus, Portuguese, and British influences are clearly visible here in ruins.
• The fort features a massive defensive wall, a moat, a gatehouse, a well, two springs, a large water tank, and multiple bastions. Large cannons are still here atop many of the bastions.
• A small chapel with a statue of the Virgin Mary, a prominent Portuguese architecture example, is another attraction. It also organizes an annual feast.
• The fort's western side offers the magnificent Arabian Sea and shoreline views and is a lovely spot for a photo or to witness an amazing sunset panorama.

How To Reach

-From Panjim

You can reach the fort easily from any of the major hubs in south Goa via public transport. Many bus services operate from Margao to Cabo de Rama Fort. You can also drive through NH66 Highway to get to Cabo de Rama Fort by taxi or by rented cab. It will take about 2 hours to reach the destination.

-From Goa International Airport

The most convenient way to reach Cabo de Rama from Goa International Fort is through taxi that will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach.

Best Time To Visit

You can visit the Cabo de Rama fort throughout the year. But the best time to visit this site is between November and March when you can encounter pleasant and cooler weather. Also, it is advisable to avoid visiting it during the monsoon season, i.e., June and September as there is not much of a sheltered area available on-site.

Also, it is better if you plan a visit to this fort around the evening time to get rewarded by the gorgeous sunset view shining over the Arabian Sea. Additionally, plan a vacation to this place during the new year, and you will witness the real Goan beach feel.

Other Essential Information

Location: The Cabo de Rama is situated around 16 km north of Agonda Beach in Canacona, which is a town in South Goa.

Timings: 9 am to 5:30 pm

Places to Visit near Cabo de Rama:

1. Cabo de Rama Beach: It is a pretty wild beach in the south of Goa that is one of the best spots to visit near the fort. You can spend some peaceful hours at the beach while enjoying the beautiful sunset scenes.

2. Leopard Valley: Life in Goa is incomplete without reveling in its nightlife. Leopard valley near Cabo de Rama Beach is your ideal stop to experience it in the best form. So after visiting the fort, party hard at this nightclub settled in the charming valley of Agonda.

3. Anand Yoga Village: Anand Yoga Village is located at the south end of Palolem Beach and boasts of serene ambiance all around. You can opt for Yoga holiday facilities here to relax and find the joy of life by indulging in yoga.

4. Conco Island: To have a wow experience, you can go to Conco island that will bewitch you with its incredible landscape and lush green surroundings. This is one of the famous tourist places close to the fort that will present to you a myriad of water activities like swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing.

History of Cabo de Rama:

Cabo de Rama firstly connects with the legend of Ramayana. According to a belief, during their 14 years of exile, Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lord Lakshmana, all resided here. It is how the fort got its name. But then the local Soonda rulers built the fort, who used to command from here. Thus, all this makes it be a historically notable monument in India.

The fort spreads across 180,000 sq.m. and is constructed with laterite rock. But after the arrival of Portuguese in Goa in 1763, they conquered it by winning over the local kings. They were fascinated by the large cape as it boasted the stunning landscape of the coastline as well as the Arabian Sea.

Soon, the Portuguese rulers carried out restoration work on the Cabo de Rama Fort to modernize it and make it more notable. They further used it as a military base and as a prison after a while. As usual, what Portuguese were recognized for, they also created a church dedicated to St. Anthony within the fort premises. 

Architecture of Cabo de Rama:

Presently the Cabo de Rama Fort is in ruins, but the bridge found at the entrance, which is an engineering wonder, stood the test of time. One can still see several eye-catching displays depicting the glory of the past here. Visitors can notice the iron bastions along with large cannons placed at that time to stop driving sea enemies.

In fact, the year of manufacture is also engraved on these cannons. You will see a watchtower toward the right, which acted as a guard for the coastline back then. You will also find two ponds within the fort; one of which contains warm water and the other, cold water.

The marvelous ancient ponds here are a representation of a Hindu architecture of the Soonda Kings era. The Soonda rulers probably used it for bathing and special ceremonies. Further, you get to see ruins of some buildings that are considered to be army quarters.

Also, the blackened fortitude and white structure of the church are at striking contrast to each other that attract many eyes. The Portuguese also built command posts, military barracks, 21 canons, and quarters for office purposes.

Tips for Visiting Cabo de Rama:

1. There are several 5-star hotels as well as budget-friendly resorts available near the fort that you can pick as per your preference.

2. Be careful while at the fort as you may see some animals and birds in and around, such as monkeys, eagles, and seldom snakes.

3. The beach bordering the fort has many good shacks and restaurants where you can satisfy your hunger with delicious dishes.

4. Do not visit the beach nearby from June to September as the sea is rough during these months.

5. You can even visit here to explore the fort for your historical research or your vacation research projects given by your schools.