Vassai Fortress

Vasai Fort also known as Bassein Fort, was of military importance due to its use of monitoring the surrounding areas of Mumbai, Thane and Saashti. Located in the Vasai suburb of North Mumbai with a strategic location, the fort has witnessed many battles spanning across history.

It remained under Portuguese military control until the early 18th century. The kingdom of Maratha, under the leadership of Bajirao Peshwa, waged several battles for its own fortress. After an initial unsuccessful attempt in 1737 to capture Vasai, the Maratha chieftain, Chimajiappa, was given the task. A lot of research and scouting planned the next attack, and after a quick, well-planned guerrilla campaign, the Maratha army finally captured the fort in 1739.

Ruins of chapels, watchtowers and stairs in the ruins of this fortress are surrounded by large palm trees. Since it was once a Portuguese settlement, there are a number of tombs carved in Latin and the remains of an ancient church can also be found. The ramparts, domes and watchtowers are hauntingly beautiful and many visitors choose this as a place to take pictures.

Overgrown wild vegetation as well as coconut and palm cover add to the wild beauty of the area. Several trails allow visitors to ascend to the edge of the fort from where they can enjoy stunning views of the Ulhas River and the setting sun. The fort has also been used as the location for many Bollywood movies such as Josh, Khamoshi and Ram Gopal Verma Ki Aag.

Opening hours: 09:00 - 18:00

Admission: free