Today, we bring you a glimpse of history—an introduction to the renowned Sindhudurg Fort, also known as the Malvan Fort. This sea fortress stands as a testament to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s military foresight and strategic brilliance. let’s unfold the Sindhudurg Fort Information with History, Architecture & Travel Guide

Table of Contents

Sindhudurg Fort Information

🌤️ Best Time To Visit: November to February
🕙 Open Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM | Closed on Tuesdays
👧👦 Traveller Types: Families, Solo Explorers, Couples, Adventure Enthusiasts
🏝️ Things To Do: Discover the historic sea fort, Visit ancient temples (Bhavani, Mahadeo, Jarimari, Mahapurush, Shivaji Maharaj), Snorkelling and scuba diving adventures
🤿 Water Sports: Snorkelling/scuba diving packages start at ₹1500 per person
💸 Budget: Entry fee: ₹50 (Indians) | ₹200 (Foreign tourists)
Additional charges for photography/videography equipment
🏯 Known For: 17th-century Maratha sea fort and architecture
Sacred temples and Shivaji Maharaj’s handprints/footprints
🚗 Distances:
Nearest railway station: Kudal (32 km)
Nearest airport: Goa International Airport (130 km)
💡 Tips-
Wear sturdy shoes for uneven fort terrain
Carry sunscreen, hats, and water
Follow safety guidelines for water activities
📷 Photography: Personal photography permitted | Commercial shoots require prior permission
⚠️ Restrictions: Strictly no alcohol, smoking, or littering within the fort premises
✨ Highlights: A blend of history, spirituality, and thrilling marine activities!

Historical Significance of Sindhudurg Fort

Among Maharashtra’s many forts, Sindhudurg Fort is a defining landmark of the coastal Konkan region. Built in the 17th century, this magnificent fort was strategically constructed on Kurte Island in the Arabian Sea to protect the Konkan coast from foreign invaders like the British, Portuguese, and Dutch.

Shivaji Maharaj personally oversaw its construction, laying the foundation on November 25, 1664. The fort served as a crucial naval base, strengthening Swarajya’s maritime defenses against threats like Siddi of Janjira, the British in Mumbai, and the Portuguese in Goa.

Feature	Information
Name	Sindhudurg Fort
Type	Sea Fort (Jal-Durg)
Height	10 feet (from sea level)
Trek Difficulty	Easy (accessible by ferry)
District	Sindhudurg, Maharashtra
Nearest City	Malvan
Current Status	Well-maintained (open for tourism)
Established	25th November 1664 (by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj)

Architectural Marvels of Sindhudurg Fort

Construction & Materials: The fort was built using 70,000 kg of iron and 500 barrels of lead, with stones excavated from quarries within the premises. The total cost was approximately one crore hons (currency of that era).
Unique Features:
- Shivaji Maharaj’s handprint and footprint imprinted in stone.
- Hidden stairways and underground escape routes.
- A crescent-shaped sandy area called “Rani Chi Vel” (The Queen’s Bathing Place).
- Ruins of the Nagarkhana (drum house), royal palace, and bastions.

Strategic Importance & Later History

Three additional forts—Padmagad, Rajkot, and Sarjekot—were built nearby to strengthen Sindhudurg’s defenses.
In 1713, the fort came under the Kolhapur princely state.
The British captured it in 1765, renaming it Fort Augustus, but later returned it to Kolhapur.

Sindhudurg Fort remains a proud symbol of Maratha naval power and Shivaji Maharaj’s visionary leadership. Even today, its towering walls whisper tales of bravery and resilience.

The Magnificent Construction of Sindhudurg Fort

Foundation & Layout

Construction Began: November 25, 1664, under the orders of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Location: Built on Kurte Island, spanning 48 acres in the Arabian Sea.
Fortification Wall:
- Length: ~3 km
- Height: 30 feet
- Width: 12 feet
- Bastions: 52
- Staircases: 45

Engineering & Architecture

Construction Cost: 80,000 hons (for the walls alone).
Materials Used: Stones quarried on-site, reinforced with fig wood (Umbar) and teakwood for the massive entrance gate.
Strategic Design:
- Gomukhi-style entrance (cow’s face shape) to confuse enemies.
- 30–40 toilets built inside—a rare feature in that era, showcasing Shivaji Maharaj’s foresight in hygiene.
- Freshwater wells named Doodhbav, Sakharbav, and Dahibav for the fort’s inhabitants.

Labor & Expertise

Workforce: 300 Portuguese engineers & 3,000 laborers worked tirelessly for three years.
Chief Architect: Hiroji Indulkar, a master builder of the time.

Mysteries & Legends

Underground Tunnel: Rumored to be an 8-km-long secret passage beneath the sea, connecting Malvan to Ozar—though no concrete evidence exists.

Location & Entry

Main Entrance: On the eastern side near Malvan.
Access: Visitors arrive by boat and walk through a narrow passage leading to the Gomukhi-style gate.

Governance & Historical Significance

Administered from Raigad, the Maratha Empire’s capital.
Key Role: Strengthened the Maratha Navy and secured the Konkan coast against foreign powers.
Later Additions:
- In 1695, Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj built a Shiva temple inside, honoring Shivaji Maharaj as Lord Shankar.

Legacy of Sindhudurg Fort

A masterpiece of maritime defense, Sindhudurg stands as a symbol of Shivaji Maharaj’s vision, engineering brilliance, and strategic genius. Even today, its imposing walls and hidden wonders continue to inspire awe.

The Maratha Navy & Sindhudurg Fort: Guardians of the Sea

Birth of the Maratha Navy (1655-56)

Recognizing that “He who controls the navy controls the sea,” Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj established the Maratha Navy after capturing Javli. His vision:

Secure Swarajya’s coastline against European powers (British, Portuguese, Dutch).
Counter Siddis of Janjira and other naval threats.
Build strategic sea forts like Sindhudurg to dominate maritime trade routes.

Architectural Brilliance of Sindhudurg Fort

A Visionary Design

Built on Kurte Island, half a mile from Malvan, in the Arabian Sea.
Hidden escape routes for emergencies—proof of Shivaji Maharaj’s foresight.
Strategic features:
- Cannon placements for naval defense.
- Musketry holes in walls for ranged combat.
- 30+ toilets for soldiers—a revolutionary hygiene system in the 17th century.

The Discovery of Kurte Island

During a Konkan expedition, Shivaji Maharaj spotted a black dot in the sea. Local fishermen revealed it was Kurte Island. In gratitude, Maharaj rewarded them with villages.

A Marvel of Engineering

Freshwater in a Salty Sea

Despite being surrounded by seawater, the fort has three freshwater wells:

Dudhbav (Milk Well)
Sakharbav (Sugar Well)
Dahibav (Curd Well)
A scientific mystery that baffles experts even today.

Inside the Fort

Hanuman Temple: Guards the entrance.
Jarimari Mata Temple: On the western side.
Seated Shivaji Maharaj Idol: The only temple in the world where he is worshipped as a divine hero.
Nagarkhana (Drum House): Used coded drumbeats to signal:
- Maharaj’s arrival
- Victory of Maratha warriors
- Enemy attacks
  (This tradition continues today with sunset drum ceremonies.)

British Occupation & Legacy

The British damaged parts of the fort, but its lime mortar construction withstood time.
Despite their efforts, Sindhudurg remains a symbol of unbroken Maratha pride.

Why Visit Sindhudurg Fort?

Panoramic Views: 15-mile visibility from the ramparts.
Historical Grandeur: Walk the same paths as Maratha warriors.
Mystical Aura: Freshwater wells, hidden tunnels, and sunset drum rituals.

“A fort isn’t just stone—it’s the soul of a kingdom.”
Sindhudurg stands as a testament to Shivaji Maharaj’s naval genius and eternal legacy.

Must-Visit Attractions in Sindhudurg Fort

1. The Miraculous Freshwater Wells

📍 Dudhbav, Dahibav & Sakharbav

A natural wonder—these stone wells provide sweet drinking water despite being surrounded by seawater.
Named after milk (doodh), curd (dahi), and sugar (sakhar), reflecting their purity.

2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Temple

📍 Built by Rajaram Maharaj (1695)

The only temple in India where Shivaji Maharaj is worshipped as a divine ruler.
Architectural marvel: Measures 13m × 7m with intricate carvings.
Nearby: Jarimari Mata Temple (west side) and Hanuman Temple (near entrance).

3. Shivaji Maharaj’s Hand & Footprints

📍 Near the Main Gate

Two sacred devdis (shrines) preserve:
- Left footprint (symbolizing his grounded leadership).
- Right handprint (representing his strength and justice).

4. The Royal Assembly Hall (Sabhagruha)

📍 Built by Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj (1907)

Served as a meeting place for strategic discussions and royal ceremonies.
Reflects the continuation of Maratha legacy post-Shivaji era.

5. Other Temples Inside the Fort

Mahadev Temple (Lord Shiva)
Mhapurush Temple
Bhagwati Devi Temple
Jarimari Mata Temple (western side, offering serene sea views).

6. The Hidden Main Entrance (Gomukhi Darwaza)

📍 Strategic Design by Shivaji Maharaj

Built with Umbar wood and reinforced with teak for durability.
Gomukhi-style (cow-mouth shaped) to confuse enemies—nearly invisible from afar!

7. Bastions & Staircases – A Warrior’s Fort

52 Bastions: Used for cannon placements and defense.
45 Stone Staircases: Designed for quick troop movement during battles.

8. Breathtaking Sea Views

🌊 Panoramic Vistas of the Arabian Sea

Walk along the 3-km-long ramparts for uninterrupted ocean views.
Perfect spot for sunset photography and peaceful reflection.

Why Visit?

Sindhudurg isn’t just a fort—it’s a living museum of Maratha naval supremacy, engineering genius, and spiritual legacy. Every corner whispers tales of bravery, faith, and foresight.

Pro Tip: Visit at sunset to hear the Nagarkhana drums—a 350-year-old tradition still alive!

The Lost Wonder & Living Traditions of Sindhudurg Fort

🌴 The Legendary Two-Branched Coconut Tree

A natural marvel that once grew within the fort walls
Its unique double-branched structure made it a botanical rarity
Tragic End: Struck by lightning during a 2009 storm
Despite rescue attempts, the tree couldn’t survive – now remembered as a symbol of the fort’s enduring spirit

🎉 Festivals & Sacred Traditions

Annual Celebrations

Shiv Jayanti: Grand processions honoring Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Ram Navami & Navratri: Temple rituals with coastal Konkani traditions
Unique Offerings:
- The Kolhapur Royal Family presents Jiretop (royal headgear) and garments to Shivaji Maharaj’s temple annually
- A silver handprint of Shivaji Maharaj is worshipped daily at Kolhapur’s Bhavani Temple

Once-in-12-Years Spectacle

Ramshwar Palakhi Yatra:
- A divine procession carrying the palakhi from Malvan to Shiv Rajeshwar Temple
- Next occurrence: 2035 (Last held in 2023)

🏡 Life Within the Fort Walls

Last Residents: A few families still call the fort home
Education: An Anganwadi and pre-primary school operate for local children
Nagarkhana Drums: Sunset drumbeats maintain Shivaji’s communication legacy

⚓ Shivaji’s Naval Pride: “Shivlanka”

Historical records describe Sindhudurg as:“Choryanchi Bandar (Pirates’ Port) and a grand Jazeera (Island)”
Renamed by Shivaji: Declared it ‘Shivlanka’ – a fortress mirroring Ravana’s impregnable Lanka, but for righteous rule
UNIQUE FACT: The only sea-fort where Shivaji’s footprint, handprint, and temple coexist

Why This Fort Still Matters?

Beyond its 3-km walls and 52 bastions, Sindhudurg is:

A spiritual beacon where history is worshipped
A living classroom of Maratha naval innovation
A testament to ecology (freshwater wells) and resilience (the lost coconut tree)

Visit to:

Touch the same walls that repelled European powers
Drink from wells that defy ocean salinity
Witness sunset drum rituals unchanged since 1667

“Every stone here doesn’t just tell a story – it sings a powada (ballad) of the sea.”

📅 Plan Your Visit: Monsoon (June-Sept) for dramatic waves; Winter (Oct-Feb) for clear skies.

Explore Beyond Sindhudurg Fort: Nearby Attractions & Experiences

🏝️ Beaches Around Malvan (0-15 km)

Beach	Highlights	Distance from Fort
Tarkarli	Pristine sands, dolphin sightings	08 km
Devbag	Golden shores, backwater confluence	12 km
Chivla	Secluded vibe, boating	1 km
Dandi	Water sports hub (jet skiing, parasailing)	0 km
Tsunami Island	Natural island for picnics	14 km

⛰️ Nature & Adventure

Rock Garden: Sculpted cliffs with ocean views (3 km)
Ozar Caves: Ancient rock-cut formations (12 km)
Backwater Tour: Serene boat rides at Tondavali Creek (10 km)

🛕 Spiritual & Historic Sites

Jay Ganesh Temple: Coastal shrine with sunset vistas (2 km)
Angne Wadi Temple: Cliffside temple overlooking the sea (12 km)
Rajkot & Sarjekot Forts: Smaller sea forts built by Shivaji Maharaj (2 km)

🌊 Water Sports & Activities

Activity	Location	Best For
Scuba Diving	Tarkarli Reef	Coral & marine life
Snorkeling	Devbag Beach	Beginners
Banana Boat Rides	Dandi Beach	Family fun
Kayaking	Karli River Backwaters	Peaceful exploration
Parasailing	Dandi Beach	Enthusiastic tourists

🏨 Where to Stay?

Accommodation Type	Recommendations	Budget (per night)
Luxury Resorts	Parisa beach resort	₹6,500+
Wooden Beach Huts	Samant Beach Resort	₹3,000-₹5,000

🛍️ Local Experiences

Malvan Market: Buy kokum syrup, sol kadhi masala, and handmade fishing nets.
Food Trail: Try Malvani fish thali, kombdi vade (chicken curry), and ukdiche modak at local joints

🗺️ Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Sindhudurg Fort + Chivla Beach sunset
Day 2: Tarkarli scuba diving + Devbag backwaters
Day 3: Ozar Caves + Malvan Market shopping

Pro Tips

Rent a bike (₹300/day) to explore coastal roads.
Avoid monsoons (June-Aug) for water sports.
Bargain for boat rides (₹500-800 for group tours).

“Malvan isn’t just a destination—it’s a sanvad (conversation) between history and the sea.”

Complete Travel Guide to Sindhudurg Fort

🚍 How to Reach Sindhudurg Fort

Mode	Route	Distance to Fort	Travel Time
Bus	MSRTC buses from Mumbai/Pune/Kolhapur/Ratnagiri; Kadamba buses from Goa	1 km (Malvan Jetty)	8-10 hrs (from Mumbai)
Train	Nearest stations: Kudal (25 km), Kankavli (40 km), Sawantwadi (50 km)	25-50 km	1-1.5 hrs (from Kudal)
Air	Chipi Airport (IATA: SDW) – Flights from Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad	21 km	30-min drive

Note: From Malvan Jetty, take a ferry (₹100/person) to the fort (10-min ride).

💰 Entry Fees & Logistics

Fort Entry: ₹50 (Indians) / ₹200 (Foreigners)
Boat Charges: ₹100/person (round trip)
Parking: Available near Malvan Beach (No parking at fort)
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM (Closed during heavy monsoon)

⏳ Best Time to Visit

Ideal Months: October–March (20–28°C, pleasant weather)
Avoid: June–September (monsoon restricts access)

🚶♂️ Exploring the Fort & Nearby

Must-Do Activities:

Ferry Ride: Enjoy panoramic sea views en route to the fort.
Temple Trail: Visit Shivaji Maharaj’s temple, freshwater wells, and hidden bastions.
Sunset Drums: Witness the Nagarkhana tradition at dusk.

Nearby Attractions :

Beaches: Tarkarli, Devbag, Dandi (water sports)
Historic: Rajkot Fort, Ozar Caves
Spiritual: Jay Ganesh Temple, AngneWadi

🍽️ Local Flavors to Try

Malvani Fish Thali
Sol Kadhi (Kokum-coconut drink)
Kombdi Vade (Spicy chicken with rice bread)

📌 Pro Tips for Visitors

Footwear: Wear grippy sandals (fort floors can be slippery).
Cash: Carry ₹500–1000 in cash (limited ATMs near jetty).
Guides: Hire local guides (₹200–300) for hidden stories.
Photography: Best light for photos – 8–10 AM or 4–6 PM.

🌊 Shivaji’s Naval Legacy Lives On

“With countless temples to gods,
Yet it’s Shivaji Maharaj who reigns in our hearts.
Salutations to the king who turned the sea into his fortress!”

🚩 Plan Your Pilgrimage to Shivlanka!