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Terekhol Fort
Terekhol Fort situated in the Pernem taluka of north Goa, provides a commanding view of the mouth of the Terekhol River. Constructed during the 17th century by Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle, the ruler of Sawantwadi, the fort was later captured by Dom Pedro de Almeida, the Portuguese viceroy in 1746.
The Portuguese utilized the fort to safeguard the northern border of Goa against numerous Maratha attacks. In 1788 the fort received official recognition as part of Portuguese possessions in goa India.
Terekhol River Goa
The fort offers splendid vistas of the Terekhol River as well as the Querim and Kalacha beaches. Visitors can often witness the exhilarating sight of paragliders soaring above Kalacha beach. The sky filled with colorful gliders creates a captivating spectacle.
In 1825, Dr. Bernado Peres Da Silva employed Terekhol Fort as a military base for an attack on the Portuguese. However, his efforts were in vain, and the Portuguese regained control of the fort. The fort held a crucial position in defending Goa against the Marathas. Within its walls stands the church of St. Anthony which is typically closed to the public, except on the feast day celebrated in May.
The fort’s surroundings, including the sea and river, enhance its natural beauty. The combination of this picturesque setting and the unique architectural style of the fort attracts numerous tourists. Presently, a significant portion of the fort has been converted into a heritage hotel.
How to reach
To reach the fort, visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from anywhere in north Goa. The journey takes them through scenic villages like Siolim, Ashvem, and Querim.
A ferry service near Querim beach allows pedestrians and bikers to cross the Terekhol River free of charge. However, individuals traveling by cars or light motor vehicles are required to pay a nominal fare in goa.
Terekhol Fort, located in – Pernem, North Goa, India, is a historical fort built in the 17th century by Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle, the ruler of Sawantwadi. Visitors can easily reach the fort by hiring a taxi or auto – rickshaw from anywhere in north Goa.
Once at the fort, there are several activities and sights to explore:
- Stay at the Terekhol Fort Resort, which offers accommodation within the fort premises.
- Enjoy a ferry ride, particularly near Querim Beach, providing scenic views of the Terekhol River.
- Visit the church housed within the fort, known as the Church of St. Anthony.
- Explore Querim Beach and soak in its natural beauty.
- There is no entry fee required to visit the fort. However, access is generally restricted to the fort resort section unless you have a booking with the resort.
- The fort is open for visitors from Sunday to Saturday, between 6 AM and 10 PM.
- For easy navigat, the geographical coordinates of Terekhol Fort.