Devgad

In today’s standard, even a well fortified fort or fortress can hardly provide you with an iota of protection against enemy attack. But it was different in the earlier days, especially when the Maratha Admiral Kanhoji Angre built a fort during his regime in 1729 AD at the mouth of a convenient creek (Devgad Creek). This is where the Arabian Sea made inroads into the land. It was a bastion that gave him a real stronghold against overseas invaders. It was popularly called the Devgad Fort.

Though Kanhoji believed that it was indestructible, but it fell later to British invasion. When the battle between the Marathas and the British ended, it was completely vanquished. The Devgad Fort was abandoned. The relentless sea and the powerful wind got the better of it. There is a lighthouse atop the fort but that too mostly remains unattended. But even today, when you visit the fort at dusk, sitting on the ample girth of its ramparts overlooking the sea beyond, you are likely to be startled to hear whispers, Admiral Kanhoji ordering his cavalry men to fix the guns at an approaching warship.

Devgad Fort is certainly a great weekend vacation. You will love this trip. Come here to learn about the history of India. Learn about Maratha pride and bravery. The fort is located amid great natural beauty too. Inviting casuarinas dotted milky white-sand, Devgad beach is located behind the fort. It is sure to lure you after the strenuous tour of the fort. The windmill plateau located nearby will offer a sweeping picture postcard view of the fort. For those who are fond of fruits, the Devgad Fort also boats of a mango orchard known for its legendary Alphonso mangoes.

How to reach: Trains that travel the Konkan railway route passes through Sindhudurg. This is the closest station from Devgad fort. There are auto rickshaws that can take you from here to the fort. You can take a bus as well. Driving is of course always a good option.