VASAI FORT: Originally built by Malik Tughan, the commander of Bahadur Shah, Sultan of Gujarat, in the 16th century, the fort was eventually taken over by the Portuguese, in the 17th century. Vasai was the main naval base and ship-building area of the Portuguese. More than serving as a strategic structure, the fort worked as a landmark site of the city that housed many churches, schools and administrative offices. Bollywood films like Khamoshi: The Musical (1996) and Josh (2000) were shot at the Vasai Fort.How to reach: The fort is a 40-minute autorickshaw ride from Vasai station. (HT PHOTO)
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SEWRI FORT: Yet another strategic fort that stood on the then island of Parel, which overlooked the Mumbai harbour, the Sewri Fort was once equipped with eight to 10 canons. However, not much of the original structure remains today; some reconstructed parts that were built recently, look contrastingly out of place. There also stands a rather new dargah at the entrance of the fort.How to reach: The fort is at a walkable distance from Sewri station. (HT PHOTO)
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WORLI FORT: Unlike the other forts of the city, this coastal structure was built by the British, and it overlooks the Mahim Bay. Owing to its rather inaccessible location — it is situated in the heart of the Worli Fishing Village where the whiff of fresh and dried fish is quite intoxicating — the fort receives very few footfalls. The structure’s colossal gate is reminiscent of its glory days, although the authorities have not done much to restore the establishment.How to reach: The fort is a 15-minute taxi drive from Dadar station. (HT PHOTO)
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SION FORT: Known by the name of Shinva, this fort holds great strategic significance, as it was built to create a distinct frontier between Bombay and Salsette islands in the 17th century. Over the years, vandalism and lack of maintenance have rendered the fortress in ruins. However, one can still spot a formidable canon placed at a prime spot at the fort. Though not much remains of the original structure, the fort serves as an ideal spot for photographers to shoot breathtaking shots of the Eastern Express Highway.How to reach: The fort is a 10-minute autorickshaw ride from Sion station. (HT PHOTO)
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BANDRA FORT: Named Castella de Aguada (Fort of the Waterpoint), this fortress was built in 1640 by the Portuguese. The structure was erected to mark the southern tip of the mainland, and served as a watchtower overlooking the then Mahim Bay. The remains of the fort are a reminder of its former grandeur. The structure has been immortalised in cinema too, with key scenes in films like Dil Chahta Hai (2001), Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Naa (2008) and Robot (2010), having been shot there. Today, this fort is one of the favourite romantic haunts among young couples. It frequently hosts concerts and theatre performances, too. One can get a picturesque view of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link from the run-down parapets of the fort.How to reach: The fort is a 10-minute autorickshaw ride from Bandra station. (HT PHOTO)
