Tasneem BharmalAs an avid photographer with an inclination for exploring off-beat locations, Cabo de Rama Fort in Goa had long been on my radar. This Goa fort is one of those few places that is an amazing blend of stunning historical structures surrounded by some of the most amazing views of the sea. So, this time during my solo trip to Goa, I ensured to plan the itinerary such that I could finally get the chance to visit this historical marvel – The Cabo De Rama Fort. I was all geared up and super-excited to get there and start capturing Cabo de Rama through my lens.
The most convenient way to travel in Goa is to rent a scooter, which I did and head out to experience my adventure at Cabo de Rama in Canacona, South Goa. With the wind in my hair and the excitement of discovery ahead, the pleasant ride took me to Cabo de Rama Fort early in the evening. The journey itself was a visual treat, passing through scenic landscapes and quaint villages all along the route.
The Cabo de Rama fort is situated on a hill-top overseeing the Arabian Sea on the other side. Upon arriving at the fort, I took a short trek that led me to the top, right to the entrance of this ancient structure. The Cabo De Rama fort’s huge stone walls and massive entrance immediately took me back in time. Though most of the fort is in ruins, I felt a surge of anticipation as I stepped inside, eager to explore every nook and corner of this historical site.
One of the first things that caught my eye was the Chapel of St. Anthony. This small but charming chapel, still in use with prayer sessions conducted regularly, stood as a reminder of the Portuguese influence on the region. I took a moment here to capture its simple yet elegant architecture, imagining the countless prayers and ceremonies that must have taken place within its walls. It had a peaceful and calming effect on me.
As I wandered further, I stumbled upon old cannons scattered around the fort. At first, it seemed like they were scattered, but then I realized that most were strategically positioned to target the enemy arriving from the sea. These relics of the past clearly established a connection to the fort’s military history. The ruins of the watchtowers and barracks made the Cabo De Rama fort even more intriguing. Despite the decay and crumbling, they still felt grand and strong. Every part of the fort seemed to tell stories from the past, and I felt lucky to capture these scenes with my camera.
One of the best parts of my visit was the amazing view of the Arabian Sea from the top of the fort’s walls, I could see stunning, endless views right up to the horizon. The sea water sparkled under the golden light of the setting sun, creating a beautiful and mesmerizing sight that left me in awe. As the evening wore on, I settled into a comfortable spot to witness the sunset. The experience of watching the sunset beyond the waters, from the top of a cliff along the seaside is one to cherish for a lifetime. Capturing the beauty and magic of the place made the visit to this off-beat location even more special.
I captured the moment, knowing it would be one of the standout memories from my trip.
As I recollected all the amazing heartfelt views from the evening and started to return, I noticed a few good restaurants and outlets serving snacks and refreshments near the Cabo De Rama fort. The aroma of Goan delicacies tempted me to grab a quick bite to taste some local flavors. While I relished some snacks, I encountered some locals that were incredibly friendly, and some of the elderly residents shared fascinating insights into the history of the fort.
I was surprised to learn that the name “Cabo de Rama” can be translated to “Cape of Rama”, signifying both its geographical significance as a headland and its mythological association with Lord Rama – a revered deity from the Hindu mythological epic Ramayana. It is believed that Rama and his wife Sita sought refuge here during their exile. So, the fort’s origins date back to pre-colonial times, with its initial construction attributed to local rulers.
My impression was that the Portuguese had built the fort, but the elders shared that the fort already existed. It was captured, fortified and renovated by the Portuguese in 1763, by adding a chapel dedicated to St. Anthony. Cabo de Rama Goa became an important strategic military outpost for the Portuguese, guarding the coastal territories from invaders.
I was so glad to have stopped at the restaurant otherwise these interesting facts would have eluded me completely. Such stories and events added depth to my experience, giving me a deeper appreciation for this historical gem.
After soaking in the beauty and history of Cabo de Rama Fort, I made my way back with a big smile and sense of satisfaction. The fort had exceeded my expectations, offering a perfect blend of historical intrigue and natural splendor. The visit had not only enriched my travel itinerary but also left me with a profound sense of connection to Goa’s rich cultural heritage.
As I rode back on my scooter, the memories of the fort and the stunning sunset lingered in my mind, reminding me why I love exploring and photographing such unique locations. If you’re ever in Goa, make sure to add Cabo de Rama Fort to your itinerary – you won’t be disappointed.
