The Best Historic Sites in Goa

1. Chapora Fort

Chapora fort is an old fort situated near Vagator beach in Goa. This colossal fort is constructed of red colour lateritic stones, built by Adil Shah, the Ruler of Bijapur, a district now in Karnataka. Many famous Bollywood movies have been shot here. It is a perfect place for a peaceful hangout with your companions.

2. Tiracol Fort

The Tiracol Fort situated at the mouth of the Terekhol River was constructed by the Ruler of Sawantwadi, Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle. Recently some part of the Tiracol Fort has been transformed into a heritage hotel. The fort also houses the St. Anthony Church within its premises. The serene surroundings and breathtaking views by the fort attract many tourists here.

3. Rivona Caves

The Rivona Caves also known as the Pandava caves are situated in the village of Rivona in South Goa. The Rivona caves are one of the few examples of Buddhist influence in Goa today.

4. Basilica of Bom Jesus Church

The church Basilica of Bom Jesus Church is one of the most pristine churches in Goa. St Francis Xavier, whose tomb and mortal remains, are preserved in this church. The church has been designed by the 17th-century Florentine sculptor Giovanni Battista Foggini, with some fine and intricate interiors. Being a famous church in Goa it for sure attracts tourists from all over.

5. Gateway of the Palace of Yusuf Adil Shah

Gateway of the Palace of Yusuf Adil Shah is located close to the Mandovi waterfront and was constructed by the Muslim King Yusuf Adil Shah, the sultan of Bijapur. The palace was demolished in 1820 for the construction of new houses and now only the gateway of the palace is what is left of the beautiful palace.

6. Pandava’s drum

Pandava’s drum is a fascinating place in Goa located near the Palolem beach at the southernmost part of the state. The southern end of the gorgeous Palolem beach is full of legends of Pandavas, (characters from the Epic Myth Mahabharata). There is a huge rock here called the Pandava’s drum, the story goes that when you fling stones at it and it hits a particular spot a drum-like sound is heard and so the name Pandava’s drum.