Terekhol Fort
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The fort is situated at the mouth of Terekhol River which flows along the Goa-Maharashtra state border. This fort has been converted to a Hotel by the State government of Goa and known as the Fort Tiracol Heritage. It was used to keep surveillance over Terekhol River and the coast during last two centuries.
Today, the fort is kept open from 6.30 am to 9.30 pm for visitors.
Historical Background
In 17th Century Maharaj Khem Sawant Bhonsle of Sawantwadi built this fort to keep an eye on the Portuguese. In the year 1746 the Portuguese took over the fort. As they renovated the fort, new churches and capsule shaped bastions were built in Portuguese architecture style. This fort was in possession of the Marathas in 1794 for a shorter period, which the Portuguese recaptured soon. Bernardo Peres da Silva became the Governor of Goa on 10 January 1835. He was removed in a coup on 1st February after which he led an unsuccessful revolt from the Terekhol fort against the Portuguese. The uprising was crushed by the Portuguese.
On August 15 1954, the freedom fighters of the Goa Liberation Movement, under the leadership of Alfred Alphonso took over the fort for a day. On August 15, 1955 Hirve Guruji (Tulshiram Balkrishna Hirve) of Panvel and Sheshnath Wadekar, including 127 unarmed workers, went on a Satyagraha near the fort. In a firing by the Portuguese, Hirve Guruji and Sheshnath Wadekar became martyrs. There is a memorial of these martyrs near the fort. Goa became independent in 1961. On December 9, 1976 the government converted this fort into a heritage resort.
How to Reach
Malvan –Terekhol village is situated on the Panjim marine highway. It is approximately 60 kms from Malvan and 40 kms from Panjim. You can travel in a bus from Malvan to Vengurle and then from Vengurle till Terekhol village. The distance between Terekhol and Redi (Yashwantgadh) is around 7 kms. We can view both the forts in a single day while travelling through a bus. You can also get a Taxi from Panjim Bus Stand (about 45 km from the fort) to Keri, then ferry to Terekhol fort.
Points of Interest
Since the Goa government has renovated this fort and converted into a five star hotel the main structure of the fort has been modified. As we enter the fort from the southern entrance, we see the century Old Portuguese Saint Anthony’s church. The church is not open to the general public except on certain occasions. Since this church is closed, the visitors cannot view the interiors of this church. You can climb upstairs to the Portuguese style capsule shaped bastion situated behind the church. Due to the resort on the fort, it takes less time to view the remnants.
Facilities & Amenities
Accommodation
Terekhol is a luxury resort; trekkers are suggested to camp in Aravali village located 8km from the fort. Since it takes less time to see the fort, people don't prefer to stay.
Food
In Aravali village
Water
Trekker suggested carrying water
Additional Information
If you plan to visit in a private vehicle, you can start early morning from Malvan to Nivati Fort 25 kms from Malvan, then Further south you can visit Redi (Yashwantgad) is around 40 kms and Terekhol at a distance of 7 kms. You can stay either in Malvan or Panaji.
Other Forts in None
Planning Your Trek?
Pack Smart
Carry essentials, water, and first aid kit
Start Early
Begin your trek early in the morning
Trek in Groups
Always trek with companions for safety