Bandra Fort is an old Portuguese fort known as Castella de Aguada. It is in Land's End in the Bandra area of Mumbai. The fort is 24 m high, a few feet above sea level.
As one of the top places to visit in Mumbai, Bandra Fort is a popular tourist spot and an important historical place. It also has stunning views of the sea. The views of the sunset are also lovely. In addition, the fort has a park with stairs where people who are into fitness and health come to work out and take their daily walks. People think it's the best spot to relax and focus.
Historical Significance
The Portuguese built Bandra Fort in the early 1640s to keep an eye on the areas around it. To the south was Mahim Bay, to the south were the islands of Worli, to the west was the Arabian Sea, to the southwest was the town of Mahim, and to the north was Mumbai Harbor. When it first started, cannons and guns were also used for defense.
Later, in the early 18th century, the British destroyed part of it because the Marathas were living there, which was a threat to them. No matter what, the Marathas took it over in 1739 and ruled it until about 1774. After the Anglo-Maratha War, the British finally took it back.
Architectural Features
The view from Bandra Fort is like being in Europe. It is made of granite blocks and arched piers. A rock with the words "Santiago 1640" carved into it is near the main entrance to the fort. The fort has interior usage options, such as storing supplies, barracks, a church, and a watchtower. The builders also created holes in the fort to locate guns and weapons against enemy ships.
A path from the fort to the Arabian Sea gives you a great view of the water and the bridge. There are seats and palm trees along the route, which makes it feel calm. The fort is 24 m (79 ft) above sea level, so it doesn't flood when the tide comes in.
Best Time to Visit
From November to February, winter is the best time to visit Bandra Fort. The sky stays clear and blue, and the air feels calm and pleasant. Drachmann's island is enjoyable to walk around, with views from the fort's walls and the sea.
You can also watch the beautiful sunset from the pathway or seating area over the water. Since winter is the peak tourist season, many people include Bandra Fort in their Mumbai tour package, making the place lively with visitors and events.