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Madh Fort, also called Versova Fort, is a lesser-known historical site located on the outskirts of Mumbai in Maharashtra. It is a hidden treasure that offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Built by thе Portuguеsе in thе 17th century, this fort has witnеssеd many shifts in powеr from thе Portuguеsе to thе Marathas аnd thе British. Madh Fort is now a sеrеnе and abandonеd sitе with its ruggеd architecture reflecting thе city’s colonial past. The location overlooks the Arabian Sea and nearby fishing villages, making it an excellent spot to experience the historical side of Mumbai.
Location
Photo: László Szalai (Beyond silence) / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Madh Fort is located in Madh Island and is a coastal arеa in the Malad suburb of Mumbai and Maharashtra. Thе fort is pеrchеd on a hillock ovеrlooking thе Arabian Sea and providing a spеctacular viеw of thе coastlinе and surrounding landscapеs. Madh Island is famous for its beaches, fishing villages, and quiet atmosphere, making it a popular escape for people wanting to escape the busy city life. About 15 kilomеtrеs from Mumbai’s city, Madh Fort is surrounded by several secluded beaches on dеnsе mangroves which add to thе fort’s natural bеauty.
How To Reach Madh Fort
Photo: PIYUSH P PUJARI / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, approximately 22 kilometres from Madh Fort. You can hire a taxi from the airport or take local transport to reach the fort.
By Rail: The closest railway station is Malad Railway Station on the Western Line. You can take an auto-rickshaw or a bus to reach the fort, about 12 kilometres away.
By Road: Madh Fort is well-connected by road. You can drive via Marve Road or ferry from Versova Jetty to reach Madh Island, followed by a short ride to the fort.
Places To Visit In And Around Madh Fort
Here are some of the best places near Maharashtra to explore in and around Madh Fort:
1. Aksa Beach
Photo: Gayatri Priyadarshini / Wikimedia Commons
Aksa Beach is located just a few kilometres from Madh Fort. It is one of the most popular beaches in the Malad area. Known for its clean sands and tranquil environment, Aksa Beach is a great spot to unwind, enjoy the ocean breeze, or take long walks along the shore. The beach is relatively less crowded than other Mumbai beaches, making it a peaceful escape from city life. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing with family and friends. Aksa Beach is also famous for its picturesque sunsets, offering a perfect view for photographers and nature lovers.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
2. Erangal Beach
Photo: sabareesh kkanan sub… / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Just a stone’s throw from Madh Fort, Erangal Beach is another unexplored place that offers scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere. Surrounded by coconut groves and traditional fishing villages, Erangal Beach provides a peaceful experience. It is ideal for those who want to explore the coast’s natural beauty without the tourist rush. You can take a peaceful walk along the beach, watch local fishermen at work, or enjoy a picnic with family and friends. Erangal Beach is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, especially during local religious events.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
3. St. Bonaventure Church
Photo: Ammodramus / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
St. Bonaventure Church is a historical Portuguese church located near Madh Fort. Built in the 16th century, the church is dedicated to St. Bonaventure. Its stunning architecture reflects the colonial influence on the region. The church is a serene place of worship known for its quaint charm and peaceful surroundings. Visitors can admire the beautiful stained-glass windows, the ancient structure, and the surrounding greenery. It is an excellent stop for those interested in history, architecture, and spiritual solace.
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Versova Beach
Photo: Utcursch / Wikimedia Commons
Versova Beach is a vibrant stretch of sand located just across the creek from Madh Island. Known for its lively atmosphere, Versova Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists. The beach is famous for its weekly cleanup drives, initiated by local volunteers to maintain its beauty. Versova Beach is a great place to relax, play beach sports, and watch the fishermen’s boats come in with their daily catch. The beach also offers stunning sunset views and is a popular spot for evening walks. It’s the perfect destination to soak in the vibrant coastal life of Mumbai.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
5. Marve Beach
Photo: Jebulon / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located near Malad, Marve Beach is a scenic beach known for its serene and peaceful environment. Swimming is not advised due to strong currents, but the beach is perfect for a quiet retreat. Marve Beach is known for its beautiful sunsets and ferry services to nearby locations like Manori and Gorai. The beach is relatively less crowded, making it ideal for those looking for a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. The nearby Marve Jetty is also a gateway for ferries to Madh Island.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Where To Stay
Photo: Amigos3D / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Madh Island offers a range of accommodation options for visitors. From beach resorts to homestays, there is something for every budget. One of the most popular places to stay is the Retreat Hotel & Convention Centre, just a short distance from Madh Fort. This luxurious beachfront resort offers comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Another option is the Palm Beach Resort, known for its budget-friendly rates and proximity to the beach. For a more personalised experience, several homestays are available in the fishing villages surrounding Madh Island, offering a taste of local life.
Where To Eat
Photo: neshom / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
When visiting Madh Fort, you can explore dining options nearby, from local seafood joints to fine-dining restaurants. The Seaside Patio at The Retreat Hotel offers a fantastic dining experience with a menu including Indian and continental cuisines. For seafood lovers, Madh Island Village Restaurant is a must-visit, offering fresh catches of the day prepared with traditional spices and recipes. Additionally, you can find small roadside eateries offering local snacks like vada pav, bhajia, and coconut water, perfect for a quick bite before or after exploring the fort.
Other Things To Consider
Photo: DavidPogue / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Madh Fort is during the winter months, from November to February. The weather is pleasant during this time, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking and exploring the fort. The cool breeze from the Arabian Sea adds to the comfort, fully allowing visitors to enjoy the area’s scenic beauty and historical charm.
Average Cost Of The Trip
Visiting Madh Fort is relatively inexpensive. On average, a trip to Madh Fort, including transportation, food, and any incidental expenses, will cost around ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 per person. Local transportation, like auto-rickshaws or buses, is affordable if you’re travelling from within Mumbai. For staying overnight, accommodation options range from budget hotels at ₹2,000 per night to luxurious options like beachfront resorts costing ₹5,000 or more per night. Dining at local eateries is budget-friendly, with meals costing as low as ₹200 – ₹500 per person.
Tips For Travellers
- The terrain around Madh Fort can be uneven, so wearing good trekking shoes is important.
- There are limited food stalls near the fort, so it’s advisable to carry your refreshments.
- To avoid the afternoon heat, plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
- As Madh Fort is a historical site, ensure you do not litter and respect its heritage.
- Madh Fort is perfect for a day trip from Mumbai, so plan accordingly.
Madh Fort is a hidden gem that blends history, serenity, and scenic beauty. Its proximity to Mumbai makes it an ideal getaway for those exploring the city’s coastal and historical offerings. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or someone who loves discovering new places, Madh Fort will not disappoint. Explore the fort and its surrounding attractions with TripXL, your trusted travel partner, to make your trip an unforgettable experience.
Cover Photo: KartikMistry / Wikimedia Commons
