Having strategic importance and folklore which binds the history together, this fort is located in Canacona taluka. This fort is witness to the ruthless battles fought between the Soonda kings and the Portuguese. The headland of Cabo De Rama had been a fortress much before the Portuguese ever reached Goa.
Cabo da Rama – Cape Rama takes its name from Rama, the hero of the Hindu epic Ramayana, who, along with his wife Sita holed up here during his exile from Ayodhya. This information comes from the days of the Soonda rulers, who built and ruled from the fort. The Portuguese took over and erected their own citadel soon after, but this now lies in ruins. A crumbling turret still houses a couple of rusty old Portuguese cannons. Until 1955, the bastion housed a prison. Although the fort saw no real action after the rebuild, it was briefly occupied by British troops.
Known to be the biggest fort in Goa, this 18000 square meter fort was defended by twenty-one canon guns. The entrance to the fort is in bad condition today, the bridge at the entrance still stands rock solid indicating the strong quality of engineering of the bridge still stands after 300 years. At the entrance to the fort is a deep valley, proof that sea water once flowed from this valley, which is why the bridge was built. There are many canons lying unattended. The canons were made of solid iron, which is why they are still strong. If you look closely, the year of manufacture is carved on the canons, which shows that the canons date back to the 17th century. These canons are proof that this fort was very strongly guarded in its time. The church is still used, and its pristine whitewash contrasts notably with the blackened stone of the ruined front rampart. The western side of the fortress, where the cliffs drop sharply to the sea, provides a great view both to the north and south. The fort provides majestic views of the entire length of Colva beach and the Canacona stretch.
To the right of the fort is the watchtower, which had a strong gun stand protecting the coastline. Just beneath the watchtower is an ancient holy lake, which is a much visited. Looking at the waters of this pond it is clear that this place had very strong underground streams. The water tank is a clear indicator that the fort is of Hindu architecture.
The fort is in an urgent need to be restored and taken care of by the government and the ASI. It is now the hideout place for animals. The left of the fort is a path leading to the mouth of the sea. Tourists and visitors have made a garbage pile here. One can also see a small natural spring in great need of attention. The sides of the fort are overgrown with undergrowth. The History Lovers Group suggests that entrance fee is charged as the revenue so raised would help in maintaining the fort. It is also suggested that all undergrowth be cleared as they afford shelter to reptiles, which pose a risk to visitors. More importantly, the Cabo De Rama fort needs immediate attention from the maintenance point of view.
Sometimes it’s lonely government observation post occupied from time to time by a couple of young scientists from the National Institute of Oceanography.
Long winding road branches off towards the fort from the National Highway-17 going to Karwar. You will have to arrange for autos or taxis to reach the Cabo da Rama Fort. Overall, the Cabo De Rama fort is definitely worth a visit if you happen to be holidaying in South Goa. Its fabulous sea views are totally worth the short hike in the warm Goan Sun.