In contrast to the hustle and bustle of North Goa, the serenity of South Goa takes you to another world where you are at peace with yourself. Here one can find nature’s untouched beauty in abundance. Cabo De Rama is such an unspoiled corner away from the buzzing city life.
The Cabo de Rama Fort, one of Goa’s most underrated tourist attractions, is a must-see for those looking for an offbeat location to explore. Cabo De Rama Fort is located in the South Goa district of Canacona town and offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and the Goan coastline. The fort is an engineering marvel that offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and Goa’s coastline. Through its unique architectural design and location, this dilapidated structure reveals a slice of rich Goan history.
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Legends of the Cabo De Rama Fort
The legends and lore of the Cabo De Rama Fort were associated with Lord Rama, his beloved wife Sita, and his brother Laxman, the protagonist of the Ramayana. It is said that they sought refuge here. This is when they were expelled from the kingdom and sentenced to a 14-year exile in the forests of India. That is how the Cabo De Rama Fort got its name.
[Also read: The Ramayana Trail: 8 Ancient Places from Ramayana in Modern-Day India]
The History of Cabo De Rama
Cabo de Rama Fort has witnessed numerous historical battles. The fort was originally built by local Sonda rulers who arrived from neighbouring Karnataka, just across Goa’s border, and was known as “Rama Kila”. The fort, however, was taken over by Portuguese rulers in 1763, and “Rama Kila” was renamed “Cabo De Rama”.
The Portuguese made the Raja of Sonda give up his territory. It was done because Hindu and Portuguese rulers agreed to protect Hindu rulers from Hyder Ali of Mysore. Several other powers attempted to rule the Cabo De Rama Fort before the Portuguese finally took full control in 1763.
Portuguese rulers restored the fort, equipping it with 21 guns and installing military barracks, followed by a commander’s quarter and a chapel. When the fort came into British power in the next few decades, they used it as a prison from 1935 to 1955.
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The Fort Today
Cabo de Rama Fort is one of the oldest in Goa’s history. Both the Hindu and Portuguese rulers were involved in the construction of this fort. As a result, you will have the opportunity to explore the architectural wonders of various cultures. Visiting the fort is like going back in time and being transported to a forgotten era.
While most of the fort is now in ruins, it is still historically significant and an engineering marvel, the bridge near the entrance, built more than 300 years ago, is still standing today. There are also bastions where large cannons were placed to prevent enemies from advancing seaward. One of the best ways to travel to the fort is by availing the services of car rentals in Goa. Car rentals are convenient, comfortable, and budget-friendly if you’re travelling in a group. Cabo de Rama is roughly 35 km away from the heart of South Goa, and you will be able to reach the fort in less than an hour.
One path leads to the fort’s summit, while the other leads to its on-site church. On the left is the serene St. Antonio Church, where an annual feast is still held and the local community gathers to pray and reminisce about history. Though the roof has caved in, the unused jail just behind the chapel is frequently visited by scientists from the National Institute of Oceanography, who come here to conduct government observations.
The fort’s defences are elaborate, with a moat, gatehouse, and several bastions. Large cannons are still strewn above many of the bastions. The fort has a well and two springs that produce cold and hot water through two different nozzles. The fort also has a large water tank with stone steps that lead down into it. There are also ruins of buildings that may have served as quarters for the troops stationed at the fort. Visiting this heritage site will provide you with a wealth of information about everything that the fort witnessed in the past.
[Also read: Things to Do in Goa – A Complete Travel Guide]
Cabo De Rama Beach
Though time and the elements have worn this proud structure down, it still stands today, guarding the Sal River’s mouth and commanding panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding area. Surrounding the fort and forming a barrier between it and the sea, is a rocky terrain that will make for quite an adventurous climb. It is lush with coconut trees and other tropical plants, making it quite a secluded getaway.
Widely regarded as one of the hidden gems of Goa, Cabo De Rama Beach in south Goa is just a stone’s throw away from the fort! It is a pristine stretch of white sand surrounded by a coconut grove and cliffs, making it an exceptionally picturesque beach. If you want to escape the crowds after checking out Cabo De Rama Fort, then head down to this beach where you can sink your toes in the sand and enjoy stunning views of Goan sunsets. If you’re lucky, you might see Indian Ocean humpback dolphins surfing the surrounding waves. If you’re travelling to Goa in June, you can experience the vibrant Sao Joao Festival in Goa, including the thrilling tradition of well jumping. Discover the cultural significance of this lesser-known festival. Don’t worry about how to head back to the Goa airport or railway station after your trip. The easiest way is to download a safe and trusted car booking app so that on your way back, the only thing on your mind is all the memories you’re going to carry throughout your life!
Last Updated on January 23, 2024 by Swati Deol
