Located in the hamlet of Vasai in the county of Vasai Taluka of the Palghar district in the state of Maharashtra, lies the Vasai Fort, also known as the Fort Bassein. The Portuguese word “bacaim” is where the fort gets its name.
This name is associated with the Vasa Konkani tribes of the North Konkan area, which stretches from Mumbai to south Gujarat. The fort’s official Portuguese name is “Fortaleza de São Sebastião de Baçaim,” or Fort of St. Sebastian of the Vasai. A Marathi word gives the fort its name, Vasai.
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It is also a favourite location for Bollywood filmmakers, who used it to film the films Khamoshi and Aaag. The government tourist agency recognises the Vasai fort as a heritage site, given its significant historical significance.
The Archaeological Survey of India is currently in charge of protecting this architectural wonder. It is a well-liked Maharashtra tourism site. The Vasai Road Railway Station provides easy access to the hamlet and fort of Vasai.
History of Vasai Fort
The region of Bassein was held by the Chanakya dynasty of the state of Karnataka, the Silhara dynasty of the Konkan, the Yadavas of Devgiri, and ultimately by the Muslim kings of the state of Gujrat, according to historian Joseph Gerson Da Cunha.
Beginning in the 16th century, Bassein served as the northern capital of Portugal under a pact with the Sultan. However, in 1739, the Marathas, led by Chimaji Appa, took control of the fort. An important part was also played by this Bassein fort in the first Anglo-Maratha War.
How to reach fort
Due to its proximity to Mumbai’s Bassein Beach, Bassein Fort is reachable by road, train, and aircraft. Taxis and MTDC buses are available to go to the fort from various districts of Mumbai; the trip takes around 30 minutes and leaves from Vasi.
Ghodbunder Road is another route that leads from Thane to Vasi. The closest train station is Vasai, which is accessible via Churchgate, Dadar, and Andheri via local trains Dahanu or Virar. You may use buses or rickshaws from the station to go to the fort.
Travellers may fly from any location in India to Mumbai, and the closest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji International.
Activities to do in and around
The Vasai Fort is close to several attractions. Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Global Vipassana Pagoda, Rangao Beach, Jivdani Temple, Tungareshwar Temple, Gorai Beach, Chinchoti Water Falls, Vailankanni Church, and other locations are among the top spots for sightseeing in this area.
The Ahmednagar Fort is surrounded by a number of fascinating locations, including the Vardhman Fantasy Garden, Essel World, and Water Kingdom.
Timings of Vasai Fort
Every day of the week, from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., the fort is open.
The best time to Visit
Although you may visit the fort at any time of year, October through March is the ideal time to do so.
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