Halorne fort at Alorna, Pernem
Right on the border of Pernem and close to the taluka of Bicholim, lies the Alorna fort within the Alorna village. Within this village that lies the sign board that indicates the presence of the Alorna or Harlane Fort on the banks of the Chapora river that flows right in front of it. The Alorna fort is commonly called the Harlan fort among the local Goan crowd.
The ride to the fort goes right through narrow roads and plenty of blind turns. It is advisable to be cautious while driving since there are many hamlets along the road and there is not much vehicular traffic. The sleepy villages are rustic and the typical Goan here lives very much the way the previous generation did many years back.
Their lifestyle is largely nature bound and one will not find the urban trappings of garbage or even dustbins around. While you may mistake them for being backward, make no mistake, they are in their element and in fact may teach you a thing or two about sustainability.
Historically, the Bhonsales from Sawantwadi as well as the Portuguese invaders used the fort to defend themselves from the Marathas. Though the fort had historical significance, it was in a neglected condition until recently. It has been renovated through the efforts of the Departments of Archives and Archaeology. Interestingly, trying to do it the original way, even the edible jaggery has been used in renovation, as was in the original structure of the fort. The renovation was completed in 2019.
Prior to this, due to the depilated condition and subsequent renovation, the more than 3 centuries old fort was closed to visitors. One can now visit the Fort, except for Sundays when it remains closed. Two canons greet you at the main entrance. The inside of the fort is quite bare save for one structure and watch towers.
The view of the Chapora river from the fort is lovely, as it moves towards Colvale. As in other villages that have a river flowing by it, the local people are often seen enjoying fishing at the river. Being here, reminds one of a time gone by. There are still parts of Goa that remain untouched by the passage of time.
