Experiences

Sea Forts in Maharashtra

1. Murud-Janjira Fort
2. Sindhudurg Fort
3. Vijaydurg Fort
4. Kolaba Durg
5. Suvarnadurg Fort
6. Andheri Fort

India is one of the pristine historic lands, and the sea forts in Maharashtra have only added to the beauty and enigma of this country. Built-in the Arabian Sea and off the Konkan coast, these sea forts stand proudly and delineate themselves as the masterpiece of Indian artisans in the early period. Maharashtra has been a seat of many dynasties, and that’s why there are several forts, almost close to four hundred, scattered in the state. However, it is these sea forts that have made this Indian state a beacon of tourists.

These historic constructions reveal how advanced Indian artisans used to be during the reigns of kings and queens. Erecting such a large fort on the water is undoubtedly a matter of heartfelt appreciation and applauds. Since these sea forts are becoming very popular, we have arranged a tour for you, with six prime historic forts off the Maharashtra coastline. So, without wasting any time, let's read further to know more about these majestic architectures.

Here is the list of sea forts in Maharashtra:

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01

Murud-Janjira Fort

The Murud Janjira fort is the first example of excellence and intelligence. Covered with the Arabian sea waters on all four sides, thereby providing a seamless view of the ocean from the rooftop, which was once used as watchtowers during the wars.

Initially, the Fort was built by the Sultans. However, later one, several additions and changes were made in the architecture by the Marathas. This fortification will offer you a glance into the century-old Maratha history, thanks to the wars' cannons. These tombs have been built as an homage to the fallen, and other artwork spread across the castle. The Fort's entrance is known as the "Sher Darwaza" because of a sculpture with one tiger with six elephants.

Location: 55 kilometers from Alibaug in the Raigad district of Maharashtra.

02

Sindhudurg Fort

Another historical masterpiece in Maharashtra is the Sindhudurg Fort in the Konkan district. The Fort was built during the reign of Chatrapati Shivaji, and that's why it has now become an emblem of his heroic acts and courage. Unlike other marine forts, the Sindhudurg stands on a rocky island, located a few kilometers off the coast of Malvan. Reaching this place is very easy as you have to rent a boat.

The Sindhudurg fort has many enigmatic tales, like the three water reservoirs, which never dry during the summers. This underground water passage opens to a village at the other end, the hidden entrance gate, or the Dilli Darwaja, and so on. The finesse of the Fort has left many tourists gobsmacked, with wide, open mouths in shock. Shivaji hired three hundred architects from Portugal to construct a fortification that would be their main operational center during any war. So, visiting this Fort is a must.

Location: Along the shore of Malvan town in Sindhudurg district, 450 km south of Mumbai

03

Vijaydurg Fort

Covered by the Arabian Sea on all three sides, the Vijaydurg Fort is one of Maharashtra's best sea forts. In the earlier time, this structure was used as a naval base of the Shivaji Empire. Maratha cargo and warships were manufactured and repaired here, in this Fort. It was built in a way where the surrounding forty-kilometer shallow creek made the structure impenetrable.

Laterite stones were mainly used in the construction of this Fort. There is a vast guard wall surrounding the Fort, and standing at a distance of 200km from the main building. This wall acted as the first line of defense for the Maratha naval force. Apart from this, you will also see the marks and dents left by the cannonballs on the outer wall.

Location: Situated right at the mouth of the Waghotan River, in the Vijaydurg region of Devgad Taluka

04

Kolaba Durg

The Kobala Fort is one of the oldest sea forts in Maharashtra, built around three centuries ago. It was used as the base of operations for the Maratha navy during the reigns of Shivaji. Since it's located near the coastline, you can easily reach the place by walking or taking a boat, depending on the tide. It is one of the less toured places, and hence, the ambiance is noiseless and peaceful.

You can wander at the vast sea with no endpoint from the rooftop of the Fort. Some cannons once used to be included in wars. Several carvings of birds and animals are there on the fort walls. There is also a freshwater well sitting at the center of the courtyard and a Lord Ganesha temple.

Location: 2 kilometers away from Alibaug Coast

05

Suvarnadurg Fort

Suvarnadurg Fort, or the Golden Fort, is one of the most critical sea forts in Maharashtra, used for naval constructions and defense. It's situated on a small island in the Arabian Sea, which allowed Shivaji to keep an eye on any enemy warship. The Suvarnadurg Fort is the main structure coupled with a little land fort present on the same island.

The Fort's foundation is mainly built from the rocky surface of the island itself. However, some sections are there where large stone blocks have been used. There are two entrances- the 'Maha Darwaja' or the bigger entrance opens towards the land while the 'chor darwaja'; or the smaller one is sea facing. If you want to unearth the history of this Fort, visiting it is a must.

Location: On a small island in the Arabian Sea near Harnai of the Konkan region

06

Andheri Fort

Under Fort is said to be a warrior amongst all other sea forts in Maharashtra. Despite having to suffer from numerous attacks, the structure continued to stand still and proud without giving up. This is why this Fort is considered one of the significant defense lines of the Maratha empire. The Fort is located in the Thal region, around eight kilometers from the city of Alibaug.

The Fort has several things to offer to you, starting from the cannons to the iron sculptures which once adorned the walls and hallways of the Fort. Since no jetty is there near the Fort, you will have to visit it during a low tide. The lack of water will help you to walk on foot to reach the structure.

Location: near Mumbai's harbor's mouth, in the south direction from Prong's Lighthouse.

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Kothaligad

Kothaligad, also known as Peth Fort, is a captivating hill fort nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India. Rising to an elevation of approximately 3,100 feet (945 meters), this fort offers a thrilling trekking experience for adventure enthusiasts. The trek to Kothaligad is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and historic significance.The fort's unique pinnacle, resembling a needle or a cobra's hood, adds to its allure. Its strategic location served historical purposes, providing a vantage point for Maratha warriors. As trekkers ascend, they traverse through lush greenery, ancient cave structures, and rocky patches, making the journey both challenging and rewarding. The panoramic views from the summit include the Sahyadri mountain range and neighboring forts.Kothaligad stands as a testament to the region's rich history and natural beauty, attracting both history buffs and nature lovers alike, offering a memorable exploration of Maharashtra's diverse terrain.

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03 January 2021

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Excellent

We were 5 people and went on the next day of Christmas. It was the best experience so far in lake side camping. The staff namely Ramrao Rathod and Baldeo were very much helpful. He alloted our tents. Tents were clean and bedsheets and woolen blanket were provided. After checkin we had our evening snacks which was Tea and Maggi. We went back to our tents. Ramrao fired up bonfire around 7. We sat around and after an hour he brought kebab sticks for BBQ. The weather was very good. Got to see both sunset and sunrise. The food was great. Veg and Non Veg both options were provided. Lightning was dim which was just perfect. Can't get better. We danced till 12 am midnight. Went to the lake in evening. Clicked some great photos. The trip was memorable and will surely visit next year in winter season.

+24

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Excellent

An amazing experience. For the first time, I got the chance of river rafting and I loved it alot. Thanks you my lovely friends for insisting me to go on this trip.

+19

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Excellent

"one of the best Trek celebrated Independence Day at top, enjoyed a lot by exploring new peoples, I would specially thanks the best ,caring and friendly host Atit and Smith team who assured me that I m solo traveler while coming to trek but while going I will be hand full of memories, and really the same thing happened with me and these guys kept their words . \nfinally I will conclude it was really awesome day thank you thrillophilia for making my day. "

+15

19 February 2019

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Excellent

It was my husband bday and I wanted to give surprise to him and whole family .. As my mother in law and father in law was with me I was really scared how the place will be will they be comfortable but Mr Anirudh gave me surety that visit once and sees the experience he gave me the number of host who is really awesome she made all the arrangement I request her for decoration & cake . As soon as I reached there she welcome whole my family with warm-hearted and arrangement. Tents were neat and clean, she made my family and me so comfortable she explained about the place in detail then we went to sunset it was really beautiful and feel peace to see that, as soon as we Came back evening snacks was ready Taste was awesome and it was unlimited. Barbeque with born fire was really pleasant with cold weather .. my family really enjoyed and especially I want to thank camp manager she really made them feel comfortable and it was Home away from home.

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Excellent

"Rajmachi trek was an amazing experience, of course given its beauty any nature lover would get mesmerised, BUT what matters more in such trekking experience is the trekking companions. Sagar Shinde is a great guy and true professional, he went beyond and make us have a great experience even though our trekking group reduced to just a couple of us. I am posting some pics that would be just glimpse of trek and the one with the trek guide Sagar who helped us trek such beautiful place."