7 MAJESTIC SEA FORTS IN KONKAN YOU MUST VISIT

Known as the Father of Indian Navy, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj built several forts by the Arabian Sea and even off the coast to defend the Maratha Empire from foreign invaders. Today, while most of the sea forts on the Konkan coast are in ruins, they still pose as popular tourist sites that you should visit, at least once. To explore the unique constructions, marvel at the stunning backdrops, or recollect your history lessons– choose your reason to visit some of the best sea forts in Maharashtra.

Best Sea Forts On The Konkan Coast

1. Kanhoji Angre Fort
2. Padmadurg Fort
3. Samrajgad Fort
4. Murud-Janjira Fort
5. Suvarnadurg Fort
6. Vijaydurg Fort
7. Sindhudurg Fort

1. Kanhoji Angre Fort

Our very first on the list is a fort soaked in history. Originally known as Khanderi, this fort is located a little off the Thal Jetty near Alibaug. It dates back to when Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj claimed control over the Khanderi Fort. Close to it is the Underi Fort on another tiny island. Once governed by Siddhi Kahim, history recounts numerous naval showdowns between Khanderi and Underi forts, with Kanhoji Angre leading the Marathas. In recognition of his valor, the island was later named after him.

You must explore the fort if you’re a history buff as the fort has a few medieval weapons and armor. Right beside the sea is a tiny temple of Vetala. It’s believed that the stone representing Vetala grows each year. If you visit during Holi, you can partake in the celebrations with the locals.

What might interest you most is the metallic rock near Khanderi Fort's entrance. It’s known for producing a metallic clicking sound when struck. Try this out yourself on your visit to this fort and find out!

The Kanhoji Angre Island has a tall lighthouse too. You can climb on top to get a gorgeous view of the island and the sea. But for the ultimate experience, climb on to the radar tower (ONLY if you get permission from the lighthouse maintenance staff). The views are stunning, but it can be incredibly windy!

How To Reach Kanhoji Angre Fort

You must head to Alibaug which is easily accessible via State Transportation buses or take a ferry from Mumbai. From Alibaug, make your way to the Thal Jetty, from where you can take another ferry to Khanderi island. The nearest railway station is Pen (30 km away).

Kanhoji Angre Fort

2. Padmadurg Fort

Built in the shape of a lotus, the aptly named Padmadurg stands northwest of Janjira in Maharashtra. Built by the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the fort was to rival the nearby and larger fort of Janjira. It served as a defense and boat-building center. The fort resembles a lotus, or Padma, further influencing its name. It’s also called so because of the numerous lotus sculptures and motifs that are within its walls.

Being a sea fort, This fort is only accessible via water which means you’ll have to take the ferry from Murud. While most of Padmadurg is in ruins, you can still visit here to learn of the glorious tales of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. But remember, you need a visiting permit from the Navy.

How To Reach Padmadurg Fort

You can reach this fort by taking the jetty services from Rajapuri in Murud Village. The nearest railway station is Mangaon (60 km away).

Padmadurg Fort

3. Samrajgad Fort

Samrajgad, also known as Danda-Rajapuri, stands on a hill southwest of Murud village's seashore, near the famous Janjira Fort. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had ordered its construction to monitor the rival Janjira Fort and block its land access. During combat while Maratha soldiers fought Siddi Khairat, Siddi Kasim's forces had managed to breach the fort's walls. The Marathas ultimately succumbed when their gunpowder stores exploded.

Like all forts along the coast, Samrajgad screams history and courage. An ideal trip to this fort would mean a good, adventurous but easy trek for you. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, there remain no ruins but just a wall of this fort today, but don’t be disheartened. There’s a temple where you can pay your offerings and absorb the serene views of the majestic sea whose waves crash against tall coconut grooves. From here, you can spot the Padmadurg and Murud-Janjira Forts as well.

How To Reach Samrajgad Fort

You need to reach Murud first, which is easily accessible via trains and buses. From Murud, you should travel to Ekdara village. From here, you must embark on a 30-minute trek to reach the fort. The closest railway station is Roha (42 km).

Samrajgad Fort

4. Murud-Janjira Fort

This fort sits majestically on an island near the coastal village of Murud, about 55 km from Alibaug in Maharashtra. Perched on a massive rock amidst the stunning blue waters of the Arabian Sea, this fortress has withstood the trials of time and history. It's a must-see if you're cruising along the Konkan coast in Maharashtra. The local fishermen had built a wooden fort for protection against pirates and later it was fortified by Burhan Khan who named it Jazeere Mahroob Jazeera.

You can enter the Murud-Janjira Fort through two main entrances. The primary one faces the jetty and has grand arches adorned with animal motifs. The 'Darya Darwaza' on the west opens towards the sea, hinting that it was likely an old emergency exit.

19 of its bastions still proudly stand as a testament to its glorious past. Accessible by a quick boat ride from the sandy shores, the fort's rooftop not only offers a peek into history but also treats you to breathtaking views of the surrounding Arabian Sea. It's like stepping into a time capsule while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery!

How To Reach Murud-Janjira

Murud is well-connected to cities like Mumbai and Navi Mumbai from where you can take State buses. If you’re traveling by train, the closest station is Roha (39 km).

Murud Janjira Fort

5. Suvarnadurg Fort

The Golden Fort, locally known as Suvarnadurg Fort was seized by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1660 and served as a strategic point for the Marathas against foreign invaders. When you reach the fort, you’ll see the Maha Darwaza – the main entrance on its eastern side, and the Chor Darwaza – the secret entrance facing the west.

Inside Suvarnadurg Fort, you’ll spot several water tanks and wells that dot the landscape amidst lush greenery, offering gorgeous sea views. While the fort is mostly unattended and in ruins, it’s still worth a visit for its history.

How To Reach Suvarnadurg Fort

The best way to reach here is via sea. You can easily get a boat from Harne Village. During low tide, you can even walk all the way to the fort! Harne is also accessible by buses from Mumbai. Khed is the closest railway station (42 km).

Suvarndurg Fort

6. Vijaydurg Fort

Overlooking the point where the Vaghotan River meets the Arabian Sea, the 12th-century Vijaydurg is known to be the oldest fort in Konkan. It was originally called Gheria for its proximity to the village of Girye, but it later earned the name Vijaydurg under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's rule in 1653. As per legend, the great warrior himself had raised the saffron flag symbolizing the Maratha rule at Vijaydurg and Torna Fort.

Did you know this fort was also called Eastern Gibraltar because it was nearly impossible to penetrate? Another strategic location of this fort was the Vaghotan Creek where large Maratha naval ships could hide from the enemy.

Today, Vijaydurg sprawls over acres and is flanked by the Arabian Sea on three fronts. Inside the fort, you can even pray in the Rameshwar Temple. The trek to this fort is easy and comfortable but you should carry sufficient water because exploring the fort will take you a good amount of time.

How To Reach Vijaydurg Fort

From Malvan to Sindhudurg, there are also several ferry services that operate regularly. Rajapur Road is the closest railway station to Vijaydurg (73 km).

Vijaydurg Fort

7. Sindhudurg Fort

Settled on a small islet in the middle of the Arabian Sea is the Sindhudurg Fort. This ancient fortress is located off the city of Malvan. A popular legend about the construction of this fort talks about a sacred rock near Malvan where you can see carvings of Lord Ganesha, the Sun and the Moon, and the Shiv Linga. This rock was worshiped by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj before he commenced the construction while detailed medieval letters account for the manpower and resources involved.

One unique characteristic of the Sindhudurg Fort was that during construction, molten lead and specially ordered limestone were used to strengthen the foundational rocks instead of the usual cement. However, you should visit this fort for its serene charm that exists even today. Juxtaposed against natural surroundings, this fort has 42 bastions, 3 small temples, and 3 sweet water wells that you can explore. The 3 small temples are dedicated to the brave Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Bhavani Mata, and Lord Shiva.

The best time to visit here is between the pleasant months of October and April when the sun isn’t scorching yet.

How To Reach Sindhudurg Fort

You’ll have to travel to Malvan and take a ferry to Sindhudurg Fort. By air, the nearest airport is the Dabolim Airport in Goa (130 km). By train, Kudal on the Konkan Railway route is the closest station (31 km).

Sindhudurg Fort

Summing Up

Palaces and castles have always been a flex of glory while the forts have silently stood as the guards of the luxurious palaces. The forts, perhaps, are historically a ruler’s best friend during conquests and wars. So, while not glamorous to look at, these ancient structures hold stories that inspire. To inspire, to explore, to learn, or simply for the views, you must visit these sea forts in Konkan.

 

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