Things to do / Highlights

The fort was originally built by the Portuguese prior to the coming of the British in India in order to guard their settlement. After that, the fort was partially destroyed to prevent it from being used by the British, leaving us with the remains of the building which now is known as Castella De Aguada.

Take a stroll around the site

The main thing about the attraction that draws people to come here is the view of the bridge, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, and the Arabian Sea. Also, even though the building is in a state of ruin, it makes a really picturesque spot for photography. Make sure to venture around the mini garden inside the building and check out a rock engraved in Portuguese at the entrance. The tranquility of the surrounding scenery is perfect for a morning or afternoon stroll. It is a great place to have your mood and soul rejuvenated to the core.

Do some exercise

Other than being a historical site, it is also an exercise complex. It would even be more fun if you bring an exercise partner. Some of the most popular activities here are jogging, running, and hiking. The view is a bonus

Tour around celebrity houses

If you want to take your Bandra Fort experience further, join a celebrity house tour. The tour begins from the fort and ends at Mount Mary Church. It will take you around the homes of some of Bollywood’s biggest stars such as Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan.

Travelers tips

Not wheelchair-friendly

In order to preserve the intactness of the site, not much work has been done around the area. Due to this reason, not many modern facilities are available, let alone facilities for wheelchair users. Yes, some of the floors on the fort are level but because these floors are connected by stairs, that makes them inaccessible by wheelchair.

Always be aware of your surroundings

Since the area can really be crowded during peak season, always be on the lookout for pickpockets. Avoid flashy jewelry and dress modestly to avoid attracting any unwanted attention. In addition, use a comfortable bag that could properly store and keep all your belongings. Suppose you plan on doing some physical activities at the site - for your own convenience, use a backpack instead of a handbag.

Carry water and use sunscreen

Since it isn’t recommended to travel around the area when the sun is down, most visitors usually come here either in the morning or a bit late into noon. As such don’t forget to apply sunscreen before and during your trip to avoid sunburn. You might want to carry an extra bottle of water because it’s easy to get dehydrated while walking around the area under the sun.

How to get there

By public transportation

The nearest train station to the Bandra Fort is Bandra Station and it is located **13 kilometers (8.07 miles) away. If you take the train on the western line, you will eventually arrive at this station without having to change lanes.

Travelers who board from the central line should alight at Dadar, and after that change station towards Bandra. But if you’re commuting from the Harbour line you can either take a train that goes straight from Panvel and Andheri to Bandra or change station at Kurla, then take a train that goes to Bandra Station via Dadar.

Then from the station, you may choose between taking a bus or auto-rickshaws to reach the site. For buses, take the one number 211 or 215. It will cost you about 10 INR (0.14 USD). But if you prefer autorickshaws instead, be prepared to pay around 35 INR (0.5 USD).

By private cars and taxis

Other than public transportation, the fastest way to reach this place is by car. If you start from Bandra Terminus the journey should take around six minutes.

Parking spot

Parking spots for cars are available at the entrance, however, two-wheel vehicles aren’t allowed to park here. If you plan to use one, the nearest parking area for motorcycles is by Mount Mary Church.

Castella de Aguada information

Castella De Aguada

Address: Byramji Jeejeebhoy Road, Bandstand Road, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050, India

Opening hours: 6am - 6:30pm (daily)

Cost: Free entry

Department of tourism: Visit Maharashtra

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