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While Goa is a famous coastal getaway among tourists, there are many hidden gems amidst its scenic natural landscape. The Betul Fort is one such hidden gem. The Betul Fort is one of Goa’s most significant historical landmarks. It is a remnant of its rich cultural past. Betul Fort, among many other forts in Goa, is popular among photography enthusiasts. The fort owes its origin to the 17th century and was captured by the Portuguese in the past through their association with King Sunda.
Location
Photo: Kishor Kumar Mishra / Wikimedia Commons / Image for Representation Only
The Betul Fort is located in the Canaguinim region of Goa. It is a part of the Betul Village in the Salcete Taluka of South Goa. Margao is about an hour away from the village of Betul. It is known for being home to the mouth of the Sal river, which flows into the Arabian Sea, close to the village of Betul.
How To Reach Betul Fort
Photo: Rajib Ghosh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Road: The village of Betul is located at a distance of 50km from the capital city of Panjim. You can cover a journey of about 2 hours from Panjim via NH66 to reach Betul Fort.
By Train: The Margao Railway Station is the closest to Betul Village. It is at a distance of 19km. You can get down at this Railway Station and then book a cab or rent a car.
By Air: you can reach Betul from the Mopa Airport in Goa by covering a distance of 77 km in about 2 hours. Buses from this airport will take you to the Margao KTC Bus stand.
Places To Visit Near Betul Fort
While Betul Fort is a historical landmark in South Goa, there are many other places close to it which you can visit while travelling:
1. Betul Beach
Photo: Adityamadhav83 / Wikimedia Commons
Betul Beach lies in the Betul Village, which is home to the Betul Fort. The beach marks the end of the Betul Village and is bordered by the Mobor Beach. There is a way uphill from the end of the Betul Village road that leads one to this beach. You can take a walk amidst the fruit trees which are in full bloom during summer and the monsoon season in this beach.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Timings: Open 24 hours
2. Betul Lighthouse
Photo: sabinevanerp / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Betul Lighthouse stands out amidst all other buildings and settlements in the village of Betul due to its height and vibrant colours. It is made of Reinforced Concrete Cement. It is believed that the lighthouse was commissioned by the great Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and it was built during his reign. The lighthouse takes on an octagonal shape and is surrounded by a scenic landscape on all sides.
Ideal Trip Duration: 20 – 40 minutes
Timings: 4 AM – 5 PM
3. Rivona Caves
Photo: rheins / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Rivona Caves owe their origin to the 7th century CE. They are also referred to as the Pandava Caves or the Rivona Buddhist Caves. The caves had been carved out of rock during ancient times. There is a tamarind tree near the Rivona Caves, where locals tie red cloths for good fortune or to denote an auspicious occasion. Carved out of laterite rocks, the cave also has a pitha inside it, which was used for meditation.
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
4. Shri Saunsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math
Photo: Aruna / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Also called the Partagali Jeevottama, this spiritual place is located by the banks of the river Kushavati in Poinginim in Goa. Research about the foundation of this matha is still an ongoing process, but it is often credited to Shri Raghuthama Theertharu. The deities of this matha include a moving installation of chara pratishta, Lord Shri Veera Vittala and Lord Rama. The matha offers education based on religious principles of the past.
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM
5. Cabo de Rama Fort
Photo: Aleksandr Zykov / Wikimedia Commons
If you wish to immerse yourself further in the historical glory of Goa, then the Cabo de Rama Fort is the perfect place for you. Located in Canacona, Goa, this fort is in ruins at present and covered in climber plants. Since the 18th century, the fort has changed in its functionality quite a number of times. It was a prison of the Goa government till 1955. The Capela de Santo António is a chapel situated inside this fort.
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Forresttran / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Since the Betul Fort is located in a place accessible by most parts of Goa, you can find a number of comfortable options for accommodation around it. The Neemrana’s Three Waters is located at a distance of just 150m from the fort and is a magnificent heritage property. It provides for a rustic yet luxurious experience. The Fenicia Riverside Resort is another property which offers a view of the Sal River draining into the Arabian Sea. Some other great options include William’s Beach Resort, Grace Exotica Goa and the Lazy Frog Guest House.
Where To Eat
Photo: ROMAN ODINTSOV / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
You can find delicious food very close to the Betul Fort in Goa. Darla’s Café is a homely Café that serves sandwiches, noodles and several beverages at affordable rates. Fish Thali is their specialty. Betty’s Place has a great ambience, with thatched roofs. It is the perfect option for those looking forward to trying Goan cuisine and seafood. The Surmai Fish Thali and King’s Fish Fry are their specialties. Some other great options include Fisherman’s Wharf, Pearl’s Beach Café and Betty’s Beach Shade Shack.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Nanasur / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Betul Fort is open throughout the year, every day from 5:30 AM to 7:00 PM. It is best that you visit the fort during sunrise or sunset to witness the perfect view of the sun and the vibrant horizon. For a pleasant travelling experience, you can visit the fort from the month of October to February. During this time, Goa has moderate climatic conditions.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: nakuldubey0601 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
It is quite an economic option to visit the Betul Fort because the entrance to the fort is free. However, you may be charged for parking within the premises of the fort. If you are travelling to Betul Fort from Panjim, a cab fare may cost you around ₹2000.
Tips For Travellers
- You can enjoy a picnic at Betul Fort along with your friends and family. Its picturesque location is perfect for a fun-filled picnic.
- A hidden gem that tourists often miss out on, is a small museum near the fort. The museum is home to a lot of artefacts and objects that trace the history of the fort. You can visit this museum to learn more about Betul Fort.
- Be respectful of the fort because it is significant to the people of Goa. Do not climb on the walls of the fort or sit on the cannons.
The Betul Fort is a historical wonder that attracts tourists from all over the world. It is also very close to Betul Beach, Mobor Beach and Cavelossim Beach. It is one of the best places to visit in Goa with a charm of its own, and warrants a trip with the entire family. Plan your trip to Betul Fort soon with TripXL and immerse yourself in Goa’s history!
Cover Photo: rajeshodayanchal / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
