The Portuguese were the first to arrive to this land and of course, the last to leave. There were seafarers, traders and merchants on the look out for new lands, new places and of course, new wealth. It didn't take them long to realise the potential of this land which their older brother or irmão, Vasco had discovered.
Human greed was quick to take over and sooner than expected, battles for ownership ensued. To guard territories, fortification was done at strategic points. To keep an eye on the enemy - the locals such as the Marathas or the other Europeans - The British especially. One of the additions to this exercise was building of the fort in Bassein or current day Vasai.
Join us this Saturday as we take a walk along the precincts of this fort that now lies empty, holding within its black stone walls and chapels the stories of the era gone by. The statue of Chimmaji Appa reminds of the battle between the Marathas and the Portuguese. Dead Portuguese nationals rest in peace in one of the lesser known graveyards of our city while robins and bee eater flutter about in the canopy of the trees. Nature when least disturbed, is the best coloniser. And the more preferred too.
Interested? Gather around at Vasai Station on the western side. Platform number 1, near the ticket counter at 730AM. After a quick breakfast we will hop onto share auto rickshaws and head to this magnificent fort.
Carry your camera, a bird field guide and binoculars, water bottle (2ltrs min), an umbrella (if it rains, we hope it does!)
Cost: At the end of the walk, you may pay us whatever you like or nothing at all!
Kindly note:
Consumption of Alcohol, Narcotic substances and cigarettes is prohibited and may lead to possible expulsion from the trek, and an early expulsion from Natural Habitat.
To confirm call us up on 09820023362!
Team Breakfree Journeys!