Because the Portuguese ruled the North Konkan region for a long time, the coastal belt from Vasai to Daman still has many small and large fort-like structures (Gadhi-Kot) built by them. Most of these are now in ruins, with only a few surviving as remnants. Among them is the small Vir Shirgaon Kot, located between Jivdhan Killa and Mandvi Kot near Virar. Virshirgaon Kot lies about 7 km from Virar railway station and can be reached by a private rickshaw. Since even the locals are mostly unaware of this Kot, it is best to gather full information before visiting. While traveling from Virar toward the Mumbai–Ahmedabad highway, there is a turn near the RTO office that leads to Virshirgaon. About 2 km along this road, on a hillock to the right, one can spot the structure of Virshirgaon Kot hidden among trees and shrubs. ... Portuguese watch-post structures typically share a uniform architectural style, and this one is no exception. It is a two-storeyed building with a footprint of about 30 x 30 feet. Today, it is completely dilapidated, with only the walls still standing. The construction consists of roughly cut stones bound together with clay and lime mortar. Niches in the walls indicate where wooden beams once supported the upper floor. Loopholes (jangya) can also be seen in the upper section of the walls, used for firing guns. From its location and overall design, it is clear this was primarily a watch-post. The present state of the Kot is quite poor, and it takes no more than 10 minutes to explore. Built in the 16th century, these small Portuguese watch-posts mainly served two purposes: guarding the waterways and supplying provisions to the various forts in the region. Using such small forts, watchtowers, and long-range cannons, the Portuguese were able to dominate the maritime routes of North Konkan. In 1739, during the Vasai campaign, this area came under Maratha control. Visitors coming here purely to see a "fort" may be disappointed, but those interested in understanding the Portuguese outposts along ancient maritime trade routes and their geographical importance will find this site worth a visit.
© Suresh Nimbalkar