Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel

Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel: Where History, Hospitality, and Heritage Meet

Fort Tiracol, now the Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel, is a unique destination at Goa’s northernmost tip, where the Terekhol River meets the Arabian Sea. This 17th-century fort, once a strategic outpost, has been beautifully restored into a boutique hotel that lets guests experience Goa’s layered history while enjoying modern comforts.

Visiting Hours and Entry Fee

Visiting Hours: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (for day visitors)
Entry Fee: Free for visitors exploring the fort and its grounds; charges apply for dining or overnight stays at the hotel

How to Reach

View Location

Fort Tiracol is about 48 km from Panaji (Panjim) and can be reached by car or taxi in roughly 1 to 1.5 hours. The drive takes you through scenic North Goa villages and beaches like Morjim, Ashvem, and Arambol, ending at the jetty at Querim (Kerim) Beach. From here, a short ferry ride takes you across the Terekhol River to the fort, followed by less than a five-minute drive to your destination. The fort is also accessible from Pernem Railway Station, about 14 km away, and is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes from Goa Dabolim International Airport by road and ferry.

The Fort’s Storied Past

Originally built by the Maharaja of Sawantwadi, Fort Tiracol was captured by the Portuguese in 1746 and expanded into a formidable military bastion. Its hilltop location offered commanding views, making it a key defense point for centuries. The fort witnessed battles, political intrigue, and even played a role in Goa’s freedom movement, with Satyagrahis raising the Indian flag here in 1954.

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The Church Within the Fort

One of Fort Tiracol’s most remarkable features is the Church of St. Anthony, located right within the fort’s courtyard. Built by the Portuguese after their conquest, the church was originally dedicated to the Holy Trinity and later became the Church of St. Anthony. The church is constructed in the Mannerist style with Neo-Gothic features and twin bell towers, and is known for its beautiful baroque façade and Rococo altar. Mass is celebrated here every Sunday at 9:00 am, and the church is open to the public on special occasions, such as the annual feast in May. It remains a spiritual landmark for the local community and visitors alike, even as it sits within the walls of a luxury hotel.

The Heritage Hotel Experience

Today, Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel offers just seven exclusive rooms and suites, each named after a day of the week and featuring a blend of Portuguese colonial charm and contemporary comfort. Guests can enjoy panoramic sea and river views, dine at the in-house Tavern Restaurant and Verandah Café, and relax in tranquil courtyards or on the ramparts. The hotel’s intimate size ensures personalized service and a peaceful atmosphere, far from Goa’s crowded tourist spots.

What Makes Fort Tiracol Special?

Live in History: Stay in a centuries-old fort with original architecture, cannons, and ramparts.
Unique Church: Visit or attend mass at the historic St. Anthony’s Church within the fort.
Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Arabian Sea, river, and Goan coastline.
Boutique Comfort: Experience luxury with a sense of exclusivity and heritage.
Cultural Connection: Discover stories of battles, freedom struggles, and local traditions.

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Visitor Information

Getting There: Accessible by road and ferry from Panaji and North Goa beaches, or by train to Pernem.
Open to Visitors: Non-resident guests can visit the fort, church (during mass or special events), and restaurant.
Best Time to Visit: November to March for pleasant weather and clear views.

Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel is more than just a place to stay—it’s a living monument where you can immerse yourself in Goa’s history, spirituality, and scenic beauty, all in one unforgettable experience.