Image Source: Shivakumar Ganachari
About Khanderi Fort
Khanderi Fort is a beautiful fort located on an island in the Arabian sea. An offbeat historical coastal fort was built in the 17th century and off of the coast of Maharashtra near Alibaug. History enthusiasts see the fort as a testament to Maratha naval prowess and strategic defence. Today adventure seekers come to experience scenic views, ancient structures, and a rich maritime legacy of the fort.
History
The fort was constructed in 1679 under the order of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. They use forts to keep an eye on and check on British and Portuguese activities in the region. After the fall of the Maratha Empire, the fort came under the rule of the British in 1818.
Architecture and Layout
The fort is situated on a small island and Some key highlights include:
Situated on a small island, the fort features massive stone walls, bastions, and military structures. It played a crucial role in naval battles and was fortified with cannons and bastions to defend against enemy attacks
Main Entrance: The main entrance of the fort is heavily fortified to withstand an enemy attack.
Lighthouse: A still-functional lighthouse offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea. It was constructed during the British era.
Temples & Shrines: Inside the fort there is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vitthal that houses several small shrines dedicated to local deities.
Water Tanks & Storage Areas: For inhabitants, you can see remains of water tanks and storage areas inside the fort that were used to store food and water.
Cannons & Watchtowers: Several old cannons and observation points remind us of the fort’s strategic importance in the past.
How to Reach
By Road: Drive to Alibaug, which is around 100 km from Mumbai. From Alibaug, head towards Thal, the nearest coastal village.
By Ferry: Boats to Khanderi Fort are available from Thal Beach. Since the fort is located on an island, you must hire a local boat to reach it. Confirm the availability of boats in advance, as the service is dependent on weather conditions.
Nearest Airport & Railway Station: The nearest airport is Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, while the nearest railway station is Pen (on the Mumbai-Goa route), from where Alibaug is accessible via road.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Khanderi Fort is between October and March, when the weather is clear and pleasant. During monsoon season (June-September), the travel becomes risky to rough seas.