Sindhudurg

The Sindhudurg Fort is unique in a way. It is today among the best preserved forts in Maharashtra. Though it is quite far from Mumbai (at a distance of 510 kilometers), but the journey is certainly worth it. Actually, the Sindhudurg Fort is closer to Goa. It will take you just about 90 minutes to reach the fort from the beaches of Goa, and that’s why a lot of vacationers visit Sindhudurg from this coastal state. Here’s one more reason that makes Sindhudurg Fort unique. This fort is actually not on mainland India. It is located in a small rocky island, which is about a kilometer away in the sea. There are ferry rides from the Malvan Port to Sindhudurg.

The name Sindhudurg means Sindhu, which is sea, and Durg, which means fort. Shivaji wanted to construct a fort on an island to counter the foreign forces that came by the sea. The fort was also constructed to keep a check on rival kingdoms, particularly the ones from Murud-Janjira. Today it stands as a testimony to the strategic moves of this great Maratha leader.

How to reach: You can reach the fort by taking either a bus or a train from Goa, Mumbai or Mangalore. State transport buses leave regularly. There are private buses too. Remember, the fort is on an island, and so obviously, you cannot reach it on a bus or train. You must take the ferry ride from Malvan port.

Visit the Sindhudurg Fort on a day trip from Goa. You won’t find any hotels in Sindhudurg Fort, or resorts in Sindhudurg Fort, because of its location. Remember, the fort is on a small island in the sea. You can stay in Goa and visit the fort from there.

If you want to see a fort in Maharashtra that has remained almost as it was before, then you must visit Sindhudurg. Sure enough, it will take it a while to reach the place. But the journey will be worth it. Visit Goa on any weekend from Mumbai or Pune, reach the Malvan port and then take the ferry. The ferry ride will take just a few minutes. The sea ride is interesting because you can see the shore all along. You are sure to love your trip to the Sindhudurg Fort.