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Murud-Janjira Fort

Fort · Alibag, Raigad

An island fort in the sea off Murud, held for centuries by the Siddis and famous for never being captured. Reached by sailboat.

Janjira stands on an oval island near the fishing town of Murud. For more than three hundred years it was the seat of the Siddis of Janjira, and it is often described as the sea fort that was never taken, despite attempts by many powers, including the Marathas.

Its high walls and rounded bastions still look strong from the boat. Inside are ruins of the old palace and quarters, freshwater tanks and several large cannons on the bastions. The size of the fort is only clear once you walk the walls.

Sailboats run from the Rajpuri jetty when the sea allows. The ride is short, but the boats are open, so hold on to children and bags. Visits stop when the sea is rough, which is usual during the monsoon.

Best time to visit

October to May. Boats usually do not run during the monsoon.

How to reach

Murud is reached by road from Alibag along the coast, or from Roha (Konkan Railway). Boats leave from Rajpuri jetty, a short drive from Murud town.

Places nearby

Facts: Wikidata (CC0) and OpenStreetMap; map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.