The numerous sea forts that dot Maharashtra's coastline are one of the state's most notable features. Maharashtra has a rich cultural past that spans several centuries. These 'jaldurg' or ‘jal-kot’ forts, which were constructed during the Maratha era as important military outposts to protect the state's coastline from invaders, are also known as forts. These sea forts in Maharashtra have grown significantly in popularity throughout time, attracting tourists, historians, and architecture lovers from all over the world.
The main purpose of sea forts, which are placed in the water and frequently on small islands or rocks, was to act as watchtowers to keep an eye out for any potential enemy activities. These sea forts were primarily built utilising conventional Indian architectural materials, such as stones and bricks, at the time they were built. The forts' strategically positioned cannons and turrets were employed to protect the coastline from invasions by the sea.
Sindhudurg Fort, Murud-Janjira Fort, Suvarnadurg Fort, and Vijaydurg Fort are a few of the sea forts in Maharashtra. Each of these forts has a distinct history and architectural style that captures the region's historical and cultural significance. As an illustration, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a legendary Maratha warrior, constructed Sindhudurg Fort in the 17th century, which is situated on the Malvan coast. It is a sizable stone fort with a distinctive fusion of Hindu and Muslim architectural traditions and is regarded as one of Maharashtra's best-preserved sea forts.
A similar famous sea fort in Maharashtra that draws tourists from all over the world is Murud-Janjira Fort, which is situated off the coast of Raigad district. The fort's distinctive architecture, which includes 19 bastions, a number of turrets, and a palace constructed for the Nawab, is well-known. The fort, which is thought to have been constructed in the fifteenth century, has played a significant role in Maharashtra's cultural and historical legacy ever since.
The ability to see the stunning architecture, understand the strategic significance of these forts, and gain insight into the life of the people who formerly resided behind their walls allows visitors to these sea forts to get a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Maharashtra. Every sea fort has a distinctive history to share and is a significant component of Maharashtra's cultural heritage, whether it is the imposing walls of Sindhudurg Fort or the beautiful carvings of Murud-Janjira Fort.
Here are five most beautiful sea forts in Maharashtra
1. Sindhurg Fort, Malvan
In the Konkan region of Maharashtra, on the Malvan coast, is the well-known sea fort of Sindhudurg. This sea fort in Maharashtra, which Chhatrapati Shivaji constructed in the 16th century, is renowned for its distinctive style and advantageous location in the Arabian Sea. The 48-acre fort has temples, water storage tanks, and munitions storage facilities. In the seas surrounding the fort, which are extremely pure, visitors can also go snorkelling and scuba diving.
Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Sindhudurg Fort is from November to February
Entry fee: For Indian visitors, the entrance charge is 50 INR, while it is 200 INR for foreigners.
2. Vijaydurg or Victory Fort, Sindhudurg
Vijaydurg Fort, also referred to as Victory Fort, is a medieval sea fort in Maharashtra, situated on the west coast. The Shilahara dynasty built the fort in the 12th century. Chhatrapati Shivaji later conquered and restored the fort. The fort is renowned for its stunning architecture, which includes multiple bastions and a triple-layered defended wall. Visitors are welcome to visit the sea fort's many buildings, including the temple, water tanks, and weapons storage areas.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Vijaydurg Fort is from November to February
Entry fee: For Indian visitors, the entrance charge is INR 5, whereas it is INR 100 for foreigners.
3. Murud-Janjira Fort, Murud
Situated on an island in the Arabian Sea, this historic sea fort in Maharashtra dates back thousands of years. The Siddis of Janjira constructed it in the 17th century, and it is known for both its stunning architecture and advantageous position. The fort has 19 bastions, multiple cannons, and thick walls all around it. Visitors can explore the fort's many buildings, including the palace, mosque, and water storage tanks, and the fort is reachable by boat from Murud village.
Best time to visit: The best months to visit the fort are November through February.
Entry fee: For Indian visitors, the entrance charge is INR 20, whereas it is INR 300 for foreigners.
4. Arnala Fort, Vasai
Situated on an island in Vasai Creek, Arnala Fort is a sea fort. The Portuguese constructed the fort in the sixteenth century, and it is renowned for both its stunning architecture and advantageous location. The fort has a moat, bastions, and high walls. The fort's many buildings, including the temples, water tanks, and weapons storage facilities, are open for exploration by guests.
Best time to visit: The best months to visit the fort are from November to February.
Entry fee: For Indian visitors, the entrance charge is INR 5, whereas it is INR 100 for foreigners.
5. Suvarnadurg Fort, Harnai
Off the coast of Harnai in the Ratnagiri district, Suvarnadurg Fort is an ancient sea fort. Adil Shah, the Sultan of Bijapur, erected the fort in the sixteenth century to protect the seafront. The sea fort in Maharashtra is well-known for both its strategic location in the Arabian Sea and its beautiful construction. The fort's many buildings, including the temples, water tanks, and weapons storage facilities, are open for exploration by guests.
Best time to visit: The optimum months to visit the fort are from November to February.
Entry fee: For Indian visitors, the entrance charge is INR 10, whereas it is INR 100 for foreigners.
Some FAQs about Maharashtra's sea forts
1. How many sea forts exist in Maharashtra?
There are about 350 forts scattered throughout Maharashtra's extensive coastline. About 40 of these forts are categorised as sea forts.
2. Which district in Maharashtra is known as the land of sea fort?
Raigad district in Maharashtra is known as the 'land of sea forts'. Several of Maharashtra's most well-known sea forts are found in this district, which is situated on the Konkan coast.
3. Which fort is known as a marine fort?
One of the most significant sea forts in Maharashtra is Sindhudurg Fort, which is situated in the Malvan area. Because it is located on a small island off the Arabian Sea shore, it is known as a sea fort.
4. What are Shivaji's sea forts?
The Maratha empire was ruled by the famed warrior Chattrapati Shivaji, who was renowned for his military prowess. He constructed a number of forts along Maharashtra's coastline, including Sindhudurg Fort, Vijaydurg Fort, and Suvarnadurg Fort which are among the most notable sea forts.
5. What distinguishes Maharashtra's sea forts from others?
Maharashtra's sea forts are distinctive because they are constructed on tiny offshore islands and contain unique architectural elements. Each fort has a fascinating history and tale to tell. They were erected as strategic defense constructions by numerous monarchs over the course of centuries. Many of these forts are now well-liked tourist attractions with stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
If you’re curious about exploring Maharashtra, the Asherigad Fort is a must-visit and we recommend doing a monsoon trek to reach here. Maharashtra is also home to some popular caves that you must visit at least once.