Forts - The Watchtowers of Mumbai

Clicked at Worli Fort

In Mumbai, the financial and artistic sector located in the southern section of the metropolitan area is commonly referred to as "Fort”. The name fort is derived from the defensive fort, Fort George, which was built by the British East India Company. More details in some other blog. This article discusses the forts of Mumbai city

While researching, I came to know that there were almost 13 forts in and around the city of Mumbai. I've visited the forts of Bandra, Worli, and Sion among these. In addition to these, I even saw the Mazgoan fort remnants while on one of my walking tours. The majority of Mumbai's forts were built during the British Empire. Therefore, they were mostly utilised as watchtowers or for defence.

Sea View from Castle de Aguada or Bandra Fort

Let’s begin with the most well-known fort of the city Castella de Aguada or the Bandra Fort It is also the spot from where you can have a look at the Bandra- Worli Sea link. However, I eventually learned about a more ideal location. Like everyone else, I had also gone to the Bandra Fort to soak in its mesmerising beauty. I didn’t even realise I was on the Bandra Fort until I stumbled upon an ASI board on my way back. The reason being, this particular structure is located right at the sea or popularly known as the land’s end. This fort has appeared in numerous music videos and is frequently used as a backdrop for photo shoots. Someday, I'd like to go on a walk that delves deeper into the fort's history. You can easily the reach the fort by car, rickshaw or bike.

Worli Fort

Now, let’s go to the other side of the Sea Link, Worli. At the time of writing this blog, it will be exactly one year since I visited the Worli Fort. I went to the fort with an amazing company called No Footprints. This fort visit is a part of their Worli Koilwada walk. A must do experience if you really want to know about the inhabitants of Mumbai. The fort's views are breath-taking, despite the not-so-great climb up to it.

On reaching the top, our walk group was welcomed by a Koli Singer.

Originally, this fort served as a watchtower for enemy ships. This fort was built by the British in the year 1675. Once atop, you just cannot stop looking at the vast ocean. I personally loved the view of Sea-Link from this fort more.

Sea Expanse from Worli Fort

While climbing up I even saw a gymnasium on the lower level of the fort. Though the fort is located within the Worli village, it is easi

Unexpectedly, I developed a fondness for the next fort, which I will now describe. The fort I am talking about is the hill fort of Sion. This fort was discovered by me in August of this year as a part of the Sion walk. This particular walk was organised by GoHalluHallu, another fantastic company. I would request everyone to please be a part of this enriching walk experience whenever possible. The rains had truly done their magic and the whole area was covered in green.

Views at Sion Fort

The fort's dark stones shone vividly against the pure blue skies that day. Though the fort is in dilapidated stage now, I was told a section was even used a dancing room. This fort's foothills are home to a garden. This makes the walk up the fort even more scenic. One can even see the Sewri and Riwa fort from the top. These two forts are definitely in my list . The fort of Vasai, which is situated in the north of Mumbai, is another fort that I am eager to see.

One of my main objective behind writing this blog, is to make the readers aware about the rich heritage which lies neglected. Try to visit these forts during your free time. I am sure it will an awesome weekend activity which won’t burn a hole in your pockets.

Front view of Sion Fort