About Fort Aguada (Sinquerim Fort)
Fort Aguada, a well-preserved Portuguese fort that was built in the 17th century. Along with the lighthouse, it is the most visited place in Goa, India. At Sinquerim Beach, Aguada Fort offers its visitors the view of the confluence of the Arabian Sea and the Mandovi River. Aguada Fort or Sinquerim Fort is one of the most interesting and scenic forts in Goa, which is loved by travellers for its historical structure.
It is an ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) protected monument in Goa, located at a distance of about 15 km from Panaji (Panjim), the capital of Goa. The name of this enchanting fort is derived from the Portuguese word ‘agua’ which means ‘water’ and the place is a source of freshwater for the sailors.
Fort Aguada itself gives an unforgettable feeling of antiquity and age-old grandeur. The stone walls of the old building lead directly to the sea. Located in Candolim, this beautiful fort remains the centre of tourist attraction.
Along with its splendid architecture, it offers breathtaking views, due to which it is on the list of great places to visit in India. Visit this place in the evening as the sunset from the fort represents pleasant and wonderful views!
Want to learn more about Goa Tourism? Myticketstoindia has answers to all your queries! Join the live chat or give us a call today!
Fort Aguada Address : Aguada Fort, the largest and most impressive fort on a hilltop that defines the Portuguese stronghold in Goa. On the banks of river Mandovi, this fort is situated at a distance of 4.2 km (approx) from Candolim, Goa.
Address: Fort Aguada Rd, Aguada Fort Area, Candolim, Goa 403515
History of Fort Aguada
The Aguada Fort was designed by Julio Simo in the late 17th century. This magnificent architecture was built by the Portuguese rulers under the supervision of the Viceroy Ruy Tavara. Built in 1612, it was known for its 79 cannons. It has a water storage capacity of 2,376,000 gallons, making it one of the largest freshwater storages in Asia in ancient times.
This fort was built with the aim of protecting the Portuguese from the Dutch and Marathas in Goa. It was a reference point for ships arriving from Europe and used to supply fresh water to the crew of ships passing at sea.
The Architecture of Fort Aguada
This Portuguese military style of architecture was made of laterite stone, which beautifully represents its glorious existence. With a height of 5 meters and a thickness of 1.3 meters, the fort walls are an outstanding example of Italian design.
Fort Aguada is divided into two sections: the lower part acts as a safe berth for ships and the upper part of the place is a fort. It has a freshwater spring, citadel, moat, gunpowder room, lighthouse. There is a secret escape route in the upper part of the fort which was used in war and emergencies.
Fort Aguada Lighthouse
The Aguada Fort has several stories and the lighthouse in the upper part equally contributes to its existence and history. The beautiful four-storey Portuguese lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in Asia. Situated between the Mormugao Peninsula and Calangute Beach, It was built in 1864 to the west of the hilltop which was renovated and modernized again in 1976.
Fort Aguada Jail
One of the largest jails of Goa, built in 1612, is a preserved representation of the power of the Portuguese rulers. This important location was used during the administration of Salazar, the 100th Prime Minister of Portugal. The Aguada Fort Jail was operational till 2015 and now the Goa government and tourism department converted it into a heritage site and museum for tourists.
Location Candolim, North Goa Type Hilltop Fort Timings 9:30 am to 6:00 pm; every day Entry Fee Free Built-in 1609 – 1612 Commissioned by Portuguese rulers Architectural Style Portuguese military architecture Distance from Panjim 18 km (approx.) Material Used Laterite
How to reach Fort Aguada
Situated on the Aguada-Siolim road in Sinquerim, Goa, this fort is a historical sight along with its beauty. There are many options available to reach the hilltop fort, you can hire a cab or taxi, or take a bus from your location.
How to reach Fort Aguada By Air
The nearest airport from Aguada Fort is Goa International Airport at Dabolim which is located at a distance of about 44 km. Dabolim Airport offers several flights for both domestic and international routes. It has 2 terminals where Terminal 1 is used for domestic flights and Terminal 2 is dedicated for international flights.
If you have booked a flight to Goa and want to visit Aguada Fort, you can hire a taxi or cab as per your convenience. Also, if you are looking for cheap services available at the airport then you can take a bus to Aguada Fort.
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (Dabolim Airport)
Address: Airport Rd, Dabolim, Goa 403801
New York to Delhi
JFK – DEL
23 Sep, 2026
Starting
$353
Boston to Delhi
BOS – DEL
29 Sep, 2026
Starting
$378
Washington, Dc to Delhi
IAD – DEL
03 Sep, 2026
Starting
$378
Chicago to Delhi
CHI – DEL
23 Aug, 2026
Starting
$390
Chicago to Delhi
ORD – DEL
20 Sep, 2026
Starting
$390
Atlanta to Delhi
ATL – DEL
11 Aug, 2026
Starting
$409
Fly Within India From Goa Easily
How to reach Fort Aguada By Road
Aguada Fort can be reached by road from Panaji which is about 15 km from the capital of Goa. If you are planning to visit the beautiful structure known as Aguada Fort, you can choose the roadways with the help of taxis/cab, rental bike or travel by your own vehicle.
Follow the winding Siolim Road and Fort Aguada Road to reach the top of the hill, it will take approx 40 minutes to reach the Fort via road from Panjim. For the cheapest journey, you can take a bus to Candolim from Panaji Bus Stand as many buses are easily available here (Distance from Candolim to Aguada Fort is around 5 km).
Bus Stand Distance Time Via Panaji Bus Stand 13.9 km 32 min Betim–Verem–Saligao Rd and Aguada – Siolim Rd/Fort Aguada Rd Mapusa Bus Stand 15.0 km 38 min Calangute – Mapusa Rd and Aguada – Siolim Rd Assonora Bus Stand 29.3 km 1 hr 2 min Mapusa – Bicholim Rd Marcela Bus Stand 33.2 km 1 hr 1 min NH748 Bicholim Bus Stand 34.0 km 1 hr 11 min Aguada – Siolim Rd Shiroda Bus Stand 49.1 km 1 hr 39 min Querim–Arambol–Agarwada Rd and Aguada – Siolim Rd Sanquelim Bus Stand 44.1 km 1 hr 19 min NH748 Ponda Bus Stand 44.3 km 1 hr 20 min NH748 Margao Bus Stand 45.6 km 1 hr 24 min NH 66 Honda Bus Stand 46.7 km 1 hr 22 min NH748 Cuncolim Bus Stand 57.6 km 1 hr 48 min NH 66 Curchorem Bus Stand 63.3 km 1 hr 56 min Curchorem – Ponda Rd Vasco Bus Stand 75.1 KM 1 hr 17 min NH366 and NH 66 Canacona Bus Stand 81.7 km 2 hr 26 min NH 66 and Panvel – Kochi – Kanyakumari Hwy
How to reach Fort Aguada By Rail
The nearest railway station from Fort Aguada is Karmali Railway Station, which is located at a distance of 26.1 km (approx.). The railway station is connected to different parts of the country by rail. You will find several trains to Karmali from your location or to other nearest railway stations in Goa. After arrival, you can take an auto or cab/taxi or bus to visit and explore the beauty of Aguada Fort.
Code Railway Station Name Distance From Aguada Fort KRMI Karmali 26.1 km THVM Thivim 26.7 km PERN Pernem 32.1 km VEN Verna 35.6 km SKVL Sankval 36.8 km DBM Dabolim 39.1 km CSM Cansaulim 40.1 km MJO Majorda Junction 40.9 km VSG Vasco da Gama 41.4 km SRVX Suravali 44.7 km MAO Madgaon Junction 47.6 km SJDA San Juje Da Areyal 53.3 km CNR Chandar 56.8 km BLLI Balli 62.0 km SVM Kudchade Sanvordem 68.3 km QLM Kulem 76.7 km KM Kalem 80.2 km CNO Canacona 89.7 km LOL Loliem 93.5 km
How To Reach Fort Aguada From Panaji (Panjim)
Fort Aguada is located on a pristine beach in the village of Sinquerim, near Candolim, Goa. It takes about 40 minutes to reach this beautiful place at a distance of 17 km from the state capital Panaji (Panjim). To reach the top of the hill, you can ride a bike or drive a car, else take a bus from Panaji to reach here.
Best time to visit Fort Aguada
The amazing view of the sunset mixed with the water from the highest point of the lighthouse is mesmerizing which will definitely add fun to your trip. This splendid design overwhelms the view of the fort and you will find a wonderful climate whenever you visit!
Mild Winter – Winter starts from November or December and lasts till February. Ideal climate to relax on the beach and admire the beauty of the fort without freezing.Hot Summer – Lasts from April to June and the climate becomes scorching due to the temperature being around 40 degrees Celsius. Summers are a great time to enjoy the beautiful view of sunrise and sunset at Aguada Fort.Strong Monsoon – Being in June to mid-September – Monsoon is considered to be the best season to discover the natural beauty around the fort. The temperatures during the rainy season make it easy for visitors to enjoy the outside overnight.
Places to visit near Fort Aguada
Sinquerim Beach : Within a minimum distance of 3.2 km, it provides various types of water sports activities such as windsurfing, fishing, water skiing, diving etc. In addition, you can enjoy the magnificent beach and the scenic beauty with spiritual benefits, including yoga, exercise and meditation at the Sinquerim Beach.Calizz : At 400 meters, it is also known as the “Heart of Goa”, it is popular for fundamentalists and history. It is a museum of Goa that has shown the life of Goon for a long time. If you are visiting Aguada Fort then don’t forget to add this excellent location to your list!Chaku Arts and Crafts : Chaku Arts and Crafts are at a distance of 4.8 km from Aguada Fort. This place is known for its wonderful gifts and crafts. Here, you will find walnut wood carvings on hand-carved furniture and souvenirs.Candolim Beach : Candolim Beach is a wonderful beach that has spread to Papora Beach from Fort. This beautiful beach presents garden views of the hilltop fort, picturesque churches and historic forts, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Goa.St. Lawrence Church : Located atop the Sinquerim hill, representing a beautiful view of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea, St. Lawrence Church was built in 1630. The church was built by the Portuguese, also known as São Lourenço Igreja em Sinquerim. It will take around 850 meters to reach the most magnificent fort from the Church.Devil’s Finger Cave : Devil’s finger cave is a popular spot for a picnic or a day trip while resting in the lap of nature. Also famous as Kaurati Caves, this location is 3.7 km away from Fort Aguada which will provide you with a majestic view of natural beauty and a peaceful environment.
Visit Aguada Fort & Nearby Places Tour Packages
Watch sunsets over the sea with Aguada Fort and Goa tour packages .
Other Popular Forts in Goa
Here are the popular forts in Goa tourism .
Places to Eat Near Aguada Fort
Cohiba Bar & Kitchen
Banyan Tree Restaurant
Himalaya Bar And Restaurant
Kokum Kitchen
Wok & Roll Restaurant
Morisco Restaurant
SFX Lounge Bar
Caravela Restaurant
Hotel & Resorts to Stay Near Aguada Fort
O Hotel Goa – Candolim
Aurita Holiday Homes
Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa, Goa
Bougainvillea Guest House Goa
Taj Holiday Village Resort and Spa, Goa
Taj Holiday Village Resort and Spa, Goa
Taj Vivanta
Book Goa Tour Packages
Eager to book Goa Tour Package already? We thought so! Whether you’re looking for a Goa tour package for family or a Goa cruise package, we have them all. All you have to do is give us a call so we can share the best prices with you.
Travel Together & Unlock Huge Savings on Dream Vacations
Flat
$100 OFF on 3+ Pax
Welcome drink in one hotel
Valid for: 4-6 Pax
Min Duration: 5N/6D
Enquire Now
T&C Apply
Flat
$280 OFF on 6+ Pax
Free dinner on one night
Valid for: 7-10 Pax
Min Duration: 5N/6D
Enquire Now
T&C Apply
Flat
$495 OFF on 10+ Pax
Free half-day tour guide
Valid for: 11-15 Pax
Min Duration: 5N/6D
Enquire Now
T&C Apply
Flat
$960 OFF on 15+ Pax
Soft drink & Free dinner on 1 night
Valid for: 15+ Pax
Min Duration: 5N/6D
Enquire Now
T&C Apply
Distance From Aguada Fort To Other Forts
Fort Name Distance Aguada Fort 0 km Reis Magos Fort 9.6 km Chapora Fort 16.6 km Colvale Fort 23.9 km Corjuem Fort 25.7 km Alorna Fort 35.5 km Ponda Fort 39.5 km Mormugao Fort 45.4 km Betul Fort 65.5 km Cabo de Rama Fort 74.4 km
