Betul Fort — Attraction in Goa

Shivaji's Only fort in Goa At the mouth of the serene and the beautiful Sal river is located the lone fort built by Shivaji in Goa. Strategically located at a vantage point in the Betul village in the Quepem taluka, this historic fort overlooks the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea and the picturesque fishing village of Betul. The Betul fort is the only fort in Goa that was built on the orders of the great King Shivaji. In 1664, Shivaji captured the ‘mahals’ (talukas) of Pednem, Bicholim and Sankhlim (inclusive of modern Sattari) from the Adilshah of Bijapur. Tiswadi, Bardez and Salcette were then, under the Portuguese rule. Ponda, Ashthgrahar, Hemadbarshem, Cacoda, Balli, Chandrawadi, Advat were under the Adilshahi rule. The Soundekar king was the vassal of the Adilshah. In 1675 Ponda, Balli, Advat came under Shivaji’s rule. The Soundekar king then became the vassal of Shivaji. Shivaji ordered the Hawaldar of Balli to build a fort at the mouth of the Sal River at Betul at the very point where the Sal River meets the Arabian Sea. Following the order of Shivaji, the Hawaldar of Balli began the construction of the fort. The Portuguese always lived in fear of Shivaji and hence when they heard the news of the construction of a fort in the neighbouring territory they were alarmed. They garrisoned the village of Cuncolim in the Salcette taluka. The Sal River also runs through Cuncolim. Shivaji passed away in April 1680. In 1763, Hyder Ali, the king of Mysore attacked Soundekar’s Kingdom. The Soundekar king Sadashiv surrendered his kingdom which also comprised of Balli, Cacoda, Ashthgrahar, Hemadbarshem, Advat, Zambaulim Chandrawadi and forts of Cabo de Rama or Kholgad and the fort of Betul to the Portuguese for safety.The Portuguese gave asylum to the Soundekar king and his family in Goa and brought these above mentioned areas under their control including the forts of Cabo de Rama and Betul. Thus in 1763-64, the Betul fort came under the control of the Portuguese and remained under their control till 1961. The Betul fort has a canon on its ramparts. It is a small fort located in one of the most beautiful spots in Goa. Betul is one of the most scenic villages of Goa noted for its beauty and fresh fish. The Betul fort is neither under the ASI or State Archaeology department. It does not enjoy any legal protection. We need to preserve this historic gem for our...

Betul Fort is a quaint little gem tucked away in the peaceful village of Betul, South Goa. This small fort, accompanied by a modest temple beside it, offers a serene and picturesque spot where the river meets the ocean—creating a stunning view, especially during high tide or sundown.

While the natural beauty here is undeniable, the fort itself doesn't offer much in terms of activities or historical exploration. If you're already nearby or enjoy quiet, lesser-known spots, it's worth a short visit. However, if you're planning to travel all the way from your hotel just for this, you might find it a bit underwhelming.

That said, it’s a perfect place to relax, soak in the views, and enjoy the calm. You'll often spot a few locals fishing by the banks, adding to the slow, tranquil vibe of the area. Swimming isn’t advisable due to the currents, but sitting by the edge and watching the sunset can be truly magical.

Located about 30–35 minutes from Margao city center, Betul Fort is ideal for a peaceful evening drive, especially if you're looking to escape the crowds and spend some quiet time...

The fort isn't a big fort but just a small watch tower with a cannon and a Maratha flag/gudi. This is all what is left over time, but it standing as a testimony of it past glory... It has face the wrath of nature over past...

What is mesmerising here is not the fort but the view it poses for people standing on it... The fort is situated at the intersection of sea and river... Sea being Arabian sea and river being Sal river... This is also the passage for trawlers fishing boats to enter river and doc at Kutbona Jetty.

Other nearby spots Betul Lighthouse - 2-3km Cabo de rama fort and beach - 10-15km Kutbona jetty

Note last stretch to the fort as specially a KM or two is extremely narrow with houses and parked vehicles on both sides... Be careful while taking a 4 wheeler... 2 wheelers won't find any issue. There isn't any parking space as such and having even 3-4 cars at a time can be congested... Prefer a bike or else visit it in the early hours... Besides the fort section is so small that it can only accomodate 4-6 people...