Sindhudurg Fort
Sindhudurg Fort is located in the Sindhudurg district in the Konkan region. District got it’s name from the name of Fort ‘Sindhudurg’. Sindhudurg Fort lies on the shores of Malvan town. This is one of the most famous and top tourist attractions in the Konkan.
Also Read Top 5 Beaches In Sindhudurg
Sindhu-(sea), Durg-(Fort) which means Fort in the sea. Sindhudurg Fort was built by Great Maratha Warrior Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 16th century. It was built to keep an eye on the enemy. This Fort was become the Naval headquarters of Maharashtra. The Fort is considered to be one of the best forts in the sea. Sindhudurg Fort is declared as World Heritage Site.
This is the only one Fort which has Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaaj’s temple inside the Fort. A museum is located beside the temple, which has a collection of many posters displaying all the information about old coins, famous Forts, statues, swords, etc. The only authentic portrait of Chhatrapati shivaji maharaj by a Dutch painter during the looting of Surat is kept in this museum. Foot prints, sweet water well(tanks) and other structures are still present and perfectly maintained.
Construction:
The Fort is bounded by massive wall. This massive wall were constructed to prevent enemies from entering the Fort. You can take a walk along this wall to get an overall view of the fort. The main entrance of this Fort is designed in such manner that no one can identify from outside. The Sindhudurg Fort is known as one of the strongest coastal forts in India.
Sindhudurg Fort is still in good condition and Stands proudly in the sea, bearing witness to its history. The breathtaking beauty of this Fort and its unique architectural design captures everyone’s attention. A beautiful architectural structure, surrounded by a massive wall, and situated in the middle of the sea is what elevates this Fort from the crowd. It leaves every tourist spellbound and compels them to come back again and again.
This Fort will remind you of the rich history of this land. Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj choose this site to built this fort. The construction was started in the 25 Nov.1664.It took about 3 years to construct this Fort. In the year of 1667, construction of this Fort was completed.
The Fort was made by Hiroji Indalkar. Almost 100 architects from Portugal and manpower of 3000 was hired. Inside the Fort there are many small snacks shops are available which offers you Kokum sharbat( one type of Drink), juice, and breakfast for your refreshment.
How to reach:
You have to catch the train to Kudal. From Kudal railway station about 5 to 10 min. of a walking distance you will get Kudal bus stand. From bus stand you have to take bus to Malvan.
From Malvan bus stand only 5 min. of walking distance you will reach to Malvan jetty.
Sindhudurg Fort is situated in the middle of the sea, so you have to buy ticket for ferry ride, which will cost you Rs.90(per person). Pick up and drop both are included. They gives you about 1:30 hr. to explore the fort.
After entering in to the Fort you have pay Rs.5 (per person) as entry fees.
What to see inside Fort:
1.Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaaj Temple.
2.Museum
3.Tulja bhavani mata temple.
4.Foot prints of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaaj
5.Well of sweet water and other structures.
Opening time:9 am. to 6 pm.
Tickets:
For ferry ride-Rs.90 (per person)
Entry fee-Rs.5 (per person)
Distance:
From Kudal: 30 km
       Bhogwe : 20 km
      Devbagh beach: 14 km
       Goa: 150 km
Nearest Bus Stand: Malvan
Best time to visit:
Best time to visit is between is between Oct-Jun
Frequently asked questions:
1. Which is the nearest railway station to Sindhudurg Fort?
Ans. Kudal railway station is the nearest railway station to the fort. It is located at a distance of 30 Km from the fort. Within 5-10 minutes of a walking distance from Kudal railway station you will reach the Kudal bus stand.
2. Who built the Sindhudurg Fort?
Ans. Sindhudurg Fort was built by architect Hiroji Indulkar in 1664.
3. Places to visit near Sindhudurg Fort
Ans. 1. Tarkarli Beach
2. Bhogwe Beach
3. Nivati Rock
4. Devbagh Beach
5. Dolphin Point