Alorna Fort

Alorna Fort

Alorna Fort, also known as Halarn Fort, is one of the oldest forts with a lengthy past. It is a great location to learn about traditional architecture and take in the alluring beauty. Travellers can enjoy the captivating view of the Chapora River as it peacefully flows towards Colvale from the extremely lovely location of Alorna Fort. In addition to this, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of lush vegetation from the Alorna Fort. This historic fort, which is located in North Goa, is the perfect place to get away from the bustle of the city. This Alorna heritage site offers lush flora, a lovely view of the surrounding natural vegetation, and a turbulent river.

Alorna Fort History

The Bhonsle's, a fearsome warrior family of Sawantwadi that dominated various Indian kingdoms in the 17th century, constructed the Alorna Fort in Goa's Mapusa city. The fort was built as a barrier against Maratha emperors' assaults on the Chapora River. This fort, which is almost three centuries old, has served as a memorial to numerous conflicts with Portuguese invaders. The first outsider to manage the fort after Bhonsle was the Marquis, popularly known as the "Marquis of Alorna," in 1746. The fort was again assaulted and taken over by another Portuguese tyrant in 1781, Dom Frederico Guilherme. Many Portuguese kings used Alorna Fort's strategic location to their advantage in the 17th or 18th century to defend themselves from Maratha raids. As a result, Alorna Fort has experienced numerous invasions over the years. The defence system from earlier times is on display at the cannon post in Alorna Fort. Archaeologists claim that the history of the defenders who died defending the fort from the invaders is repeated here.

Alorna Fort Information

The design of Alorna Fort is built on a unique defence mechanism intended to thwart the Marathas' assault. Only 2 cannon stations are visible now, compared to the approximately 4 cannon stations that were once present. There is only one remaining building inside the Alorna Fort, and it has a deep well in the middle. The fort once featured a number of watchtowers, but there are currently only two on the front side. The fort is a significant component of the surrounding natural beauty, and the view of it in the evening is particularly captivating. Around the Alorna Fort, one may observe gorgeous high grasslands and verdant paddy fields. The fort is currently designated by the Goa government as one of its protected sites and is currently under renovation by the Archaeological Survey of India.

How to Reach

The majestic Alorna Fort, which is located on the banks of the Chapora River, is quite simple to get to and visit. Alorna Fort is situated in Pernem, about 10 kilometres from Malpem and 30 kilometres from Mapusa. To get here via NH 17, you can either drive, take a bus, or a cab/taxi. By Air: Alorna Fort is roughly 56.9 km away from Goa's well-organized Dabolim Airport. By Road: Alorna Fort is well connected to other areas of the country. 10 kilometres separate NH 17 from Alorna Fort, which is accessible via road. By Rail: The railroad station that is closest to Alorna Fort is Thivim Train Station, which is about 14.5 kilometres away. From Panaji: It will take around an hour to travel from Panaji, the capital of Goa, to Alorna Fort, which is approximately 35 kilometres away.

Best Time to Visit

• April through July - Ideal moment to stroll by the sandy river and take in the sunset at the fort
• Winter (November to February) - Perfect time to take advantage of the nice weather and hot afternoon sun
• Monsoon (Beginning in September) - Best time to enjoy the season's warm weather and breezy atmosphere