Imagine taking a long, yet mesmerizing 100+ minute drive from Goa’s capital, Panjim, to a remote, yet breath-taking location in Keri, North Goa. The journey may seem tiring, but what awaits you at the end is pure magic – Fort Tiracol, a stunning 17th century fort perched on a hilltop, with breathtaking views of River Tiracol and the Arabian Sea.
But wait, is this fort really in Goa? Or, does it belong to Maharashtra? Read on to know more. The answer may surprise you, perhaps even make you want to pack your bags and rush there.
FORGOTTEN HISTORY
Built in the 17th century by Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle, the then King of Sawantwadi, Fort Tiracol was a powerful stronghold before being captured by the Portuguese.
Positioned on the banks of River Tiracol, the fort became a strategic border post and even houses a church dedicated to St Anthony, built by the Portuguese.
But, this fort isn’t just about colonial history. It played a crucial role in Goa’s freedom struggle.
On August 15, 1954, freedom fighter Alfred Afonso and his 14 satyagrahis stormed the fort, eventually hoisting the Indian flag and holding it for a day. A year later, in 1955, Hirve Guruji and Sheshnath Wadekar were martyred while fighting for Goa’s liberation.
Today, the fort stands, not just as a historical landmark, but as a symbol of Goa’s fight for freedom.
FROM BATTLEFIELD TO BOUTIQUE LUXURY
Fast forward to today, and Fort Tiracol has been transformed into an exclusive heritage hotel, where guests can experience history while relaxing in modern luxury.
Imagine waking up in a 400-year-old fort, surrounded by heritage and untouched natural beauty. The fort’s elevated position offers unmatched views, making every moment here feel magical and surreal.
The Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel offers seven exquisitely-designed rooms and suites, each named after a day of the week:
Suites: Friday and Sunday
Deluxe Double Rooms: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday
With just seven rooms, this boutique stay provides a rare sense of exclusivity, blending old world elegance with contemporary comforts.
LUXURY & COMFORT
A stay at Fort Tiracol offers world-class amenities, including the Tavern Restaurant Lounge Bar, Verandah, Garden Cafe Al Fresco, king-size beds in every room, air-conditioning, 42-inch satellite TV, modern bathrooms with rain showers, and complimentary Wi-Fi in rooms and public areas.
FOR THRILLS
The hotel arranges coast cruising, river fishing, beach trips, picnics, hotel transport on request and doctor-on-call for emergencies.
Why stay in a regular hotel when you can stay in a fort? A stay at Fort Tiracol isn’t just a vacation, it’s an experience like no other.
Why stay in a regular hotel when you can stay in a fort? A stay at Fort Tiracol isn’t just a vacation, it’s an experience like no other. It’s a journey through history, a luxury retreat and an adventure, all in one.
Where else can you sleep in a fort, sip coffee overlooking the Arabian Sea, and walk the same ramparts where freedom fighters once stood?
WHERE IS THIS JEWEL LOCATED?
So, we come back to the question: is Fort Tiracol in Goa or Maharashtra? The answer is clear – it’s in Goa, but you might just find yourself crossing over to Maharashtra to reach this hidden paradise.
For, while Fort Tiracol is very much in Goa, it is more easily accessible via a bridge from Goa to Maharashtra, and then driving back into Goa, a detour that makes many travellers question its true location.
Why, then, settle for the ordinary when you can experience something truly extraordinary? Book your stay at Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel and rewrite your travel story in Goa.