How many of these have you already visited?
Every city has a charm of its own, one that comes from its age old culture and heritage.
In the first of a special series on the hidden treasures of Mumbai, we unlock the Maximum City's popular and lesser known forts.
Photographs by Hitesh Harisinghani/Rediff.com
Bandra Fort
IMAGE: Castella de Aguada also known as Bandra Fort was built by the Portuguese in 1640. It overlooks the Mahim Bay.
IMAGE: The fort is well maintained. You will recognise this fort from certain scenes in Bollywood.
Dharavi Fort
IMAGE: Also known as Kala Qilla, Dharavi Fort is located on the banks of Mithi River.
IMAGE: The fort was built by the first governor of Bombay, Gerald Aungier.
Today however, this fort is in an appalling state, with all kinds of garbage scattered around it and children using it as a playground.
Today however, this fort is in an appalling state, with all kinds of garbage scattered around it and children using it as a playground.
Ghodbunder Fort
IMAGE: Ghodbunder Fort is located in Thane, central Mumbai, on the hill to the south of Ulhas River.
IMAGE: This fort was built by the Portuguese. At one point, it also served as the East India Company's district headquarters.
Mahim Fort
IMAGE: It is located in the Mahim Bay and overlooks Worli to the south and Bandra to the north.
The fort is currently in a state of despair, suffering from administrative neglect and slum encroachments.
The fort is currently in a state of despair, suffering from administrative neglect and slum encroachments.
Sewri Fort
IMAGE: Sewri fort in Mumbai was built by the British in 1680. The fort served as a watch tower, atop a hill overlooking the Mumbai harbour. Today, its walls have names of lovers scribbled all over them. Seen in this picture are kids playing cricket.
Sion Fort
IMAGE: The Sion Hillock Fort was built under the East India Company between 1669 and 1677.
It was notified as a Grade I Heritage structure in 1925.
It was notified as a Grade I Heritage structure in 1925.
Vasai Fort
IMAGE: Fort Bassein also known as Vasai Fort is a monument of national importance and is protected by ASI (Archaeological Survey of India).
IMAGE: Its location and stunning view has made the fort a popular wedding pre-shoot destination.
Worli Fort
IMAGE: Worli Fort was built by the British in 1675. It was used as a lookout for enemy ships and pirates.
IMAGE: A Hanuman temple stands inside the fort. You'll rarely spot tourists here as the location of the fort is not very convenient to access.
When this photographer visited the fort, he spotted a few locals who told him that he wasn't allowed to shoot inside the fort.
When this photographer visited the fort, he spotted a few locals who told him that he wasn't allowed to shoot inside the fort.
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